1. Can I see the vehicle's maintenance records? Understanding the car's maintenance history helps gauge its overall health and whether it has been well cared for. Regular maintenance can prolong the vehicle's lifespan.

2. Has the car been in any accidents? This question uncovers potential hidden damages and repairs. Accidents can impact the car's structural integrity and resale value.

3. Why are you selling the car? The seller's reason can reveal important information about the car's condition.

4. What is the current mileage? Mileage affects the car's wear and tear. Lower mileage generally suggests less usage, while higher mileage may lead to more maintenance needs.

5. Can I have the car inspected by a mechanic of my choice? An independent inspection by a trusted mechanic can uncover hidden problems that the seller might not disclose.

6. What extras are included and what is their condition? Vehicles sometime come with a second set of wheels and tires, roof racks, off-road lights, or other added accessories. This helps you understand what is included with the sale and if the asking price is justifiable.

7. Are there any known issues or recent repairs? This question encourages transparency. Being aware of recent repairs or known issues can help you gauge the potential maintenance costs.

Asking these questions provides a well-rounded view of the used car's history, condition, and potential challenges. It empowers you to make an informed decision and ensures you're not caught off guard by any hidden problems post-purchase.

A CARFAX Vehicle History Report is a comprehensive vehicle history report that provides information about a used car's past. It includes details such as previous owners, accident history, title and registration issues, mileage readings, service records, and more. CARFAX Vehicle History Report gathers data from various sources, such as DMV records, insurance companies, and service facilities, to help buyers make informed decisions about the condition and reliability of a used vehicle. This report can uncover potential red flags and give buyers confidence in their purchase by revealing important information that may not be apparent from a simple visual inspection of the vehicle. For a more detailed guide on how to get your vehicle ready to sell, click here.

IMPORTANT NOTE: A standard CARFAX Vehicle History Report does not include information about British Columbia accident history, and requires purchasing an additional report from ICBC. All CARFAX reports purchased through BCAA Auto Marketplace include the additional ICBC accident history report.

When purchasing a used vehicle in British Columbia, there are a few things to consider beyond the purchase price of the car. These include:

1. Sales Tax (PST): Provincial Sales Tax (PST) is required when purchasing a used vehicle. The amount is 12% for vehicles up to $124,999.99, 15% for vehicles between $125,000.00 and $149,999.99, and 20% for vehicles $150,000 and over. These taxes are applicable to the purchase price of the vehicle.

2. Vehicle Transfer and Registration Fee: This fee is from ICBC and covers the administrative costs of transferring the vehicle's ownership and registering it in your name. The fee can vary based on the vehicle's value.

3. Licensing Fees: A fee required by ICBC fee that covers the cost of license plates for your vehicle and can vary based on the type of license plate and vehicle.

4. Insurance: You'll need to arrange for insurance coverage before driving the vehicle. Insurance costs can vary based on factors like your driving history, the type of vehicle, and the coverage you choose.

5. Provincial Inspection Fee: If the vehicle requires a safety inspection or emissions test to be legally driven, there might be additional fees associated with this process. This is mainly for vehicles that have been imported to BC from another province or outside of Canada but can also apply to vehicles that have been issued an inspection notice from the police.

When completing a sale, there are several forms to exchange between the buyer and seller. These include:

1. Bill of Sale: The document that states that the seller is selling the vehicle to the buyer. This form is not mandatory, but is a best practice in vehicle transactions.

2. Vehicle Registration Form: The form signifying the vehicle registration is transferred from seller to buyer.

3. Transfer/Tax Form: The form that completes the process of transferring the vehicle.

4. Purchase/Transfer of Insurance: The buyer must purchase or transfer their insurance from their old vehicle to their newly purchased vehicle.

For more information and links to forms, click here.