The Nickel Stretcher

The used-car buying checklist

18 steps in the order that protects you: budget first, then the specific car, then the deal, then the paperwork.

Track your progress with a free accountFree inspection checklist

Budget and research

Decide what you can afford all-in before you look at a single car.

  • Set a monthly budget for payment, insurance, fuel and maintenance together How
  • Get preapproved for a loan by a bank or credit union How
  • Shortlist two or three reliable models and years How
  • Get insurance quotes for those models How

Checking a specific car

Do these before you talk price.

  • Check open recalls with the VIN How
  • Get a vehicle history report and check for title brands How
  • Read the dealer's Buyers Guide: "as is" or warranty How
  • Do a full test drive on mixed roads, starting cold How
  • Have an independent mechanic inspect it How

Making the deal

Price first, then financing, then trade-in.

  • Agree on the out-the-door price in writing How
  • Compare dealer financing with your preapproval (APR and total cost) How
  • Decide on each add-on separately, or decline How
  • Negotiate the trade-in separately, with outside offers in hand How
  • Confirm financing is final before driving away How

After you buy

Set the car up to stay cheap to run.

  • Have insurance in place from the moment you drive away How
  • Complete title, registration and plates on time How
  • Note the maintenance schedule from the owner's manual How
  • Start a folder for receipts and service records How