Is this a good used car deal?
Score the deal before you commit
A good deal balances price, verified condition, and manageable ownership costs. Use these criteria to make a decision quickly.
Pricing alignment
- Compare asking price to local listings with similar mileage.
- Account for trim-specific options that add or reduce value.
- Adjust for reconditioning costs like tires or brakes.
Condition confidence
- Prioritize a clean title, consistent service records, and low rust.
- Confirm the vehicle matches its listing photos and description.
- Avoid listings with incomplete disclosures or missing VIN.
Ownership costs
- Estimate insurance, fuel, and typical maintenance expenses.
- Check upcoming scheduled services (timing belt, battery, brakes).
- Review recall status and warranty coverage.
Negotiation leverage
- Document issues with photos and repair estimates.
- Use market comps to anchor your offer.
- Ask for receipts of recent work or negotiate the repair cost.
Walk-away flags
These conditions typically outweigh price discounts.
- Salvage, flood, or rebuilt title branding.
- Unresolved safety recalls or airbags deployed in an accident.
- Odometer inconsistencies or missing VIN plates.
- Seller refuses inspection or test drive.
Compare with live previews
These previews show how pricing and condition signals appear in real assessments.