Buying well
Buying a used luxury car: what to look for
The right used luxury car combines the specification you want with a condition and service history you can understand. Here’s how to compare the car, its records and the price.
Identify the exact vehicle
Match the VIN, model year, trim and mileage across the listing, service records and proposal. The equipment list tells you which options this particular car has.
Keep the listing, history report and equipment details together so you can compare your shortlisted cars.
Read the history alongside the car
Review the history report for incidents, liens and recalls, then discuss any gaps with the dealer. Compare the records with what you see on the viewing and test drive.
Request service invoices where available and ask what work is due next. Compare dates and odometer readings. For a car with specialist equipment, ask whether the inspection and service provider has experience with that model.
Source: OMVIC: shopping for a vehicle.
Agree on an inspection and warranty review
Ask the seller about arranging an independent inspection before committing. Define what it will cover, who pays, and how any findings will be handled. Depending on the vehicle, your questions may include tires, brakes, fluid leaks, diagnostic faults, accident repairs and battery condition.
For a certified car or one with a warranty, compare coverage dates, mileage limits, exclusions and deductibles. Include who handles repairs and whether the coverage transfers.
Bring the advertised price into the proposal
Ontario dealer advertising includes the fees and charges the dealer intends to collect, with clearly disclosed HST and licensing exceptions. OMVIC explains the pricing rules and advertising exceptions.
Save the listing and ask for an itemised written proposal. Mark optional products separately and confirm any cash-versus-finance conditions. Take time to review the contract and ask for any unresolved vehicle-history, equipment or warranty point to be documented before signing.