Here are the basic questions to ask. Put them in whatever order you like, however you can cut your phone time substantially by asking the most pertinent questions first and canning the conversation if your questions are not met with acceptable answers. If you are buying from a dealer vs. a private party they may not be able to answer some questions which may leave some doubt.

1. Are you the original owner?

- What is the vehicle's history?

2. Has there been any prior collision damage?

- If so, what was the extent of the damage and do you have a receipt for the repairs?

3. Do you have service records for all maintenance/repairs?

- If over 5 years old/90,000 miles (longer on some vehicles)...Has the timing belt been replaced?

- When was the last major service (30K, 60K, 90K mile interval) performed?

4. Why are you selling the vehicle?

5. Do you smoke?

6. Color? (if applicable)

7. Has the vehicle been smog tested, did it pass, and do you have a copy of the test result?

- Smog testing/vehicle compliance is required by law of the seller in private party and dealer sales transactions.

8. In what condition would you rate the vehicle on a 1-10 scale for the exterior? Interior? Mechanical?

9. When may I come and test drive the vehicle? Are you available for an inspection/test drive at ___________________?

10. If I am seriously interested, are you opposed to me having the vehicle checked out by a reputable shop (at my expense) before I commit to purchase? Things can get sticky here. A dealer is required by law to allow the customer to have the vehicle inspected elsewhere, but this is not the case in a private party transaction. If the seller is wary (why is this?) of an inspection, we suggest you mention the following:

a) You are very interested or you would not be willing to spend the dollars for the inspection.

b) A car is a large purchase and you want to do it right the first time.

c) Tell them about the shop or your history with the shop and have them research it themselves.

d) As a last ditch effort, or if there are multiple buyers vying for the vehicle and you REALLY want THIS ONE:

--NOT recommended by Hontech as there are thousands of vehicles out there in the marketplace--

- You could offer to put down a deposit that will be refunded if the vehicle does not meet your buying criteria (found to have had collision damage, needs repairs/service exceeding "X" amount in dollars, etc.).