Check the dealer and documents before you buy

All guides

Verify the licence, vehicle, liens and written promises. Online reputation cannot replace an independent inspection or the contract.

Sources checked : 2026-11-13. Review due by : 2027-02-13.

Check the seller and specific vehicle

OPC recommends its merchant-information tool and checking the road-vehicle dealer’s licence. A positive review is not official authorization or a guarantee.

Match the VIN, vehicle label, history and documents. Check appropriate RDPRM liens and vehicle records. Request a test drive and inspection by a mechanic you choose before committing.

Put promises in writing

OPC’s guide says the dealer must allow inspection and provide a written contract. Have promised repairs, accessories and conditions included rather than relying on verbal assurances.

Do not sign until you have decided and understood the terms. There is no automatic general ten-day right to change your mind about a car purchase. Additional-warranty cancellation is a separate issue.

Your checklist

Check licence and OPC merchant information.
Arrange a test, inspection and lien checks.
Obtain the itemized total and written commitments before signing.

Worked example

If brake work is promised before delivery, specify in writing the work, who pays and when it will be completed. A vague promise of full preparation does not define the repair.

Limits

This guide does not certify a dealer or perform inspections or lien searches. An entry in our directory is not an endorsement of reliability.

One question, if you wish

What would you like to check before signing?

No answer is required. You can save an answer for your advisor in the interactive version; reading does not share anything with a dealer.

Sources

OPC — Before buying from a dealer — 2026-11-13
OPC — Used automobile purchased from a dealer — 2026-11-13