What to Look for When Buying a Used Car: A Checklist for 2025 Buyers
Shopping for a used car can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. With used vehicle prices remaining competitive in 2025 and more high-quality options on the market, now is a great time to buy. The key is knowing what to check, what to ask, and what to avoid.
Whether you’re buying from a dealership or a private seller, this 2025 used car checklist will help you make a confident, informed purchase.
1. Check the Vehicle History Report
Before anything else, ask for a vehicle history report (like Carfax or AutoCheck). This document reveals important background information:
- Accident history
- Ownership history
- Service and maintenance records
- Odometer inconsistencies
- Insurance claims and total loss status
A clean history report doesn’t guarantee a perfect car—but it’s a strong starting point. At Orléans Kia, every used car includes a full Carfax report for transparency.
2. Verify Mileage vs. Vehicle Age
Mileage tells you how much wear the vehicle has seen. In Canada, the average annual mileage is about 20,000 km. Here’s a general benchmark:
| Vehicle Age | Expected Mileage |
|---|---|
| 3 years old | ~60,000 km |
| 5 years old | ~100,000 km |
| 8+ years old | ~160,000+ km |
Lower mileage is great—but only if paired with consistent maintenance.
3. Look for Service Records
Ask for any available maintenance and repair documentation. Well-documented service shows the previous owner cared for the vehicle.
Check for:
- Oil change intervals
- Transmission or brake work
- Timing belt or battery replacement
- Regular inspections
Avoid vehicles with long gaps in service or missing key maintenance milestones.
4. Inspect the Exterior and Interior
Do a full walk-around inspection, ideally in daylight. Here’s what to watch for:
Exterior:
- Rust or bubbling paint
- Body panel misalignment (may indicate accidents)
- Cracks in glass or lights
- Evenness in tire wear (can indicate alignment issues)
Interior:
- Check for odd smells (mold, smoke, etc.)
- Look for rips, stains, or worn-out upholstery
- Test all electronics, screens, and controls
- Ensure seat adjustments and locks work
5. Test Drive for Real-World Feel
Never buy a used car without a test drive. During the drive:
- Listen for strange noises during acceleration or braking
- Test the brakes for firmness and smooth stops
- Check steering responsiveness and road handling
- Drive on both city roads and highways
- Pay attention to how the transmission shifts
You want a car that feels natural and confident—not clunky or unpredictable.
6. Confirm Safety Features
Modern used cars often come with advanced driver-assistance systems. Make sure they’re functional and included, especially in vehicles from 2018 onwards:
- Backup camera
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-keeping assist
- Forward collision warning
- Adaptive cruise control
For family buyers, ensure LATCH anchors are present for car seats.
7. Research Reliability and Ownership Costs
Before committing, look up:
- Reliability ratings (from sources like J.D. Power or Consumer Reports)
- Fuel economy ratings (L/100 km or MPG)
- Insurance estimates
- Common issues or recalls for the make and model
In 2025, fuel economy and hybrid options are a top concern for budget-conscious buyers. Consider models like the Kia Niro Hybrid or Toyota RAV4 Hybrid if efficiency is a priority.
8. Know the Value Before You Negotiate
Use tools like Canadian Black Book, AutoTrader, or Kelley Blue Book to check fair market pricing based on:
- Year
- Trim level
- Kilometers
- Condition
- Location
This helps you spot overpriced vehicles or negotiate confidently.
9. Ask About Return Policies and Warranties
When buying from a dealership, ask about:
- Exchange policies (some dealers offer 3–7 day return windows)
- Extended warranty options
- Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) benefits
- Safety certification and emissions compliance
A certified used vehicle often includes multi-point inspections, powertrain coverage, and other perks that private sales can’t match.
10. Don’t Skip the Final Paperwork
Whether it’s a dealership or private sale, make sure everything is clear, legal, and complete:
- Ownership title (free of liens)
- Safety Standards Certificate (required in many provinces)
- Bill of sale with sale price and signatures
- Valid emissions certificate if applicable
- Transfer of plates and registration
Avoid cash deals with no paperwork. Always get a written receipt and double-check vehicle ID numbers (VIN) on both the car and the documents.
Final Thoughts: Buy Smart, Drive Confident
Buying a used car in 2025 is more rewarding when you do your homework. Follow this checklist to avoid surprises and make a purchase that fits your needs and your budget. Whether you’re buying your first car, a family SUV, or a fuel-efficient commuter, taking the right steps up front will pay off down the road.
At Orléans Kia, we take the guesswork out of buying used. Every pre-owned vehicle on our lot is inspected, certified, and comes with a full vehicle history report.
Ready to browse?
Explore our used car inventory or contact us to book a test drive today.