Why are you selling the car?
Make sure to ask this important question when dealing with a private car seller. Sellers might not mention their reasons in the vehicle's description, and knowing them could help in negotiating a better deal, like if they're moving abroad and need to sell car quickly.
How long have you owned the car?
It's not good if someone is selling a car they just bought. Most people keep their cars for a few years at least. A short ownership period should prompt further questions about the car's condition and performance issues.
Do you have service and maintenance records?
Keep in mind that not everyone keeps these, but having them suggests the owner took good care of the car.
Can I see the vehicle history report?
Ask for a vehicle history report. If the seller doesn't have it or is hesitant to share the vehicle's history, consider obtaining the report independently. The vehicle history report should provide information on whether the car was involved in a major or minor accident.
Can I test drive the car?
There's no valid reason to refuse a test drive. Any private owner unwilling to let you test drive the car should have a strong reason.
Are you the original car owner?
Typically, it's better to go for single-owner vehicles. This makes it easier to get more answers in regards to the vehicle. If the seller isn't the original owner, they may not have all the information. The more details you have about the vehicle, the more confident you'll feel.
Can I take the car to a mechanic for an inspection?
If they decline, it's likely best to move on. Getting a trusted mechanic to inspect the car before purchase can reveal hidden issues not noticed during a test drive. The personal inspection is used to determine if the car is worth taking to a mechanic, rely on the mechanic inspection for the final decision.