Buying a Used Car: 6 Critical Questions to Ask
Navigating the used car market in Northeast Ohio requires more than just a keen eye for a shiny exterior. Whether you are browsing for a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) INFINITI in Beachwood or a budget-friendly commuter for the drive to Cleveland, the quality of your investment depends on the questions you ask before signing the title. In 2026, with vehicle history data more accessible than ever, these six questions are your primary defense against "lemon" anxiety and unexpected repair bills.
1. May I See the Full Maintenance and Service History?
A vehicle is only as reliable as its previous owner's diligence. Ask for a CARFAX® or AutoCheck report, but don't stop there. Inquire if the seller has physical or digital receipts for routine work. A car with a documented history of oil changes, brake pads, and fluid flushes—ideally performed by a certified technician—is significantly less likely to suffer a catastrophic failure at 100,000 miles.
2. What Specific Reconditioning Was Performed Before the Sale?
When buying from a dealership like INFINITI of Beachwood, this question reveals the "gap" between how the car arrived and how it sits now. Did they simply wash it, or did they replace the tires, perform an alignment, and update the infotainment firmware? Understanding the reconditioning process ensures you aren't inheriting a maintenance schedule that is already overdue.
3. Can I Take the Vehicle for an Independent Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI)?
This is the ultimate litmus test for a seller’s honesty. If a private seller or dealer hesitates to let you take the car to a third-party mechanic, it is often a red flag. A professional PPI can uncover hidden issues like frame damage, old flood lines, or "ghost" codes in the ECU that a standard test drive might miss.
4. Is the Title Clean and Currently in the Seller’s Name?
In 2026, "title skipping" (where a seller never registers the car in their name to avoid taxes) remains a common scam. Always verify that the name on the title matches the seller’s ID. Additionally, clarify the title status: Is it "Clean," or is it a Salvage/Rebuilt title? A non-clean title drastically reduces the vehicle's resale value and can make it difficult to secure insurance or financing.
5. What is the Remaining Balance of the Factory Warranty?
Many modern vehicles, especially luxury brands like INFINITI, have warranties that transfer to second or third owners. Ask for the In-Service Date. If the vehicle is still under its 4-year/60,000-mile basic warranty or 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty, you have a built-in safety net that adds thousands in value to your purchase.
6. Are There Any Unaddressed Open Recalls?
Safety is paramount. Use the vehicle’s VIN to check the NHTSA database for any open recalls. Asking the seller if they have already addressed major recalls (such as airbag inflators or fuel pump sensors) tells you how proactive they were about the vehicle's safety. If the car has open recalls, ensure the seller agrees to have them fixed at a manufacturer-authorized center before you take delivery.
Buying a used vehicle shouldn't feel like a gamble. By sticking to this technical checklist, you move from being a "hopeful" buyer to an "informed" investor who knows exactly what is under the hood.
Expert Tip: If you want to skip the guesswork, a Certified Pre-Owned INFINITI undergoes a rigorous 167-point inspection that answers most of these questions for you. Come to INFINITI of Beachwood and see a technology specialist for a transparent look at our current pre-owned inventory and their full history reports.