Top Questions to Ask Before Buying a Used Car in St. John’s
Top Questions to Ask Before Buying a Used Car in St. John’s
Posted on July 15, 2025
Top Questions to Ask Before Buying a Used Car in St. John’s
Buying a used car can be exciting but it also comes with questions. Whether you’re shopping your first vehicle or replacing your daily driver, it’s important to feel confident before making a decision.
At Hickman Select, we help drivers across St. John’s and throughout Newfoundland find great vehicles they can trust. To make the process even easier, we’ve rounded up the most important questions you should ask before buying a used car and how our team can help you answer them.
1. Has the Vehicle Been Inspected?
This should always be your first question. A proper inspection helps make sure the vehicle is safe and ready for the road. At Hickman Select, every certified pre-owned vehicle goes through a full mechanical inspection before it hits the lot.
Why it matters:
-
You’ll know if any repairs are needed
-
It gives peace of mind about long-term reliability
-
It helps avoid surprises down the road
Moreover, we’re happy to show you the inspection report for any vehicle you’re interested in.
2. Can I See the Service History?
Knowing how the vehicle was maintained is just as important as how it looks. Ask to see oil change records, brake service, and other maintenance history.
Tip: A well-maintained car is more likely to last longer and cost less in repairs.
At Hickman Select, we provide service records whenever possible so you can make an informed decision.
3. Has It Been in Any Accidents?
This is a big one. While not all accidents are deal-breakers, it’s good to know how serious the damage was and if it was properly repaired.
What to ask:
-
Has it been in a collision?
-
Were repairs done at a certified shop?
-
Is there a Carfax or damage history report available?
Thankfully, we offer full vehicle history reports on all our used cars. That way, you’re not left guessing.
4. What’s the Warranty Coverage?
Even when buying used, you should ask about warranty options. Some vehicles may still be under manufacturer warranty, while others qualify for extended plans.
Ask questions like:
-
Is there any factory warranty remaining?
-
What extended warranty options do you offer?
-
What does the warranty cover?
At Hickman Select, many of our used vehicles qualify for extended warranty coverage giving you extra protection and peace of mind.
5. What’s the Total Cost of Ownership?
Don’t just think about the sticker price. Be sure to consider long-term costs like fuel, insurance, maintenance, and financing.
Consider asking:
-
What’s the average fuel economy?
-
How much is insurance likely to cost?
-
What are the available financing terms?
Because our team works with local lenders and understands Newfoundland conditions, we’ll help you estimate the full cost upfront no surprises.
6. Can I Test Drive the Vehicle?
This one’s simple but essential. Always take the car for a test drive. This is your chance to feel how it handles, listen for any noises, and see if it fits your lifestyle.
Why it helps:
-
You’ll get a feel for the comfort and visibility
-
You can test features like brakes, steering, and acceleration
-
You’ll build confidence in your decision
Fortunately, every vehicle at Hickman Select is ready for a test drive and we’re happy to walk you through everything while you’re behind the wheel.
Bonus: Ask About Our Hickman Select Promise
When you buy from Hickman Select, you’re not just getting a great used car, you’re joining a community that’s been serving Newfoundland for over 100 years.
With 9 locations across the province, we offer:
-
Trusted, inspected vehicles
-
Local, no-pressure service
-
Fair pricing and financing
-
Trade-in options and flexible delivery
Most importantly, we’re here to answer any questions you may have—even the ones you haven’t thought of yet.
Start Your Used Car Search With Confidence
Whether you’re buying your first car or your fifth, asking the right questions makes all the difference. At Hickman Select, we’ll take the time to answer them clearly because you deserve to feel good about your next vehicle.