Used Car Buying Kit 2026: Checklists, Scripts & Paperwork (US & Canada)

Buying a used car from a private seller?

There's no dealer to go back to if something goes wrong, so the checking has to happen before you pay. This 21-page printable kit walks you through the whole purchase in order, from the first look at the listing to handing over the money, so you don't forget anything with the seller watching.

WHAT'S INSIDE

✓ Listing red flags: 12 signs of a scam or problem car, plus a quick price-check table

✓ Seller message scripts: copy-and-paste texts to get the VIN, and 10 questions to ask before you drive anywhere

✓ The checks to run: VIN, theft, recalls, liens, title history and warranty extensions, with the official tools for the US and Canada

✓ Known problem years: quick reference for popular models (Civic, CR-V, RAV4, Corolla, F-150 and more)

✓ Printable inspection checklist (3 pages): paperwork, body, tires, under the hood, interior, flood signs, start-up and underneath

✓ Test-drive checklist: the route, and what to feel and listen for

✓ Walk-away list: the deal-breakers, no matter how good the price

✓ Negotiation scripts: 6 word-for-word scripts for using inspection findings and known problems to lower the price

✓ The rules in plain English: what US federal law and Canadian provinces require in a private sale

✓ Paperwork and tax quick guides for California, Texas, Florida, New York, Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta and Quebec

✓ A full list of the official government sources behind every rule

✓ Bill of sale template

✓ Safe payment guide: how to avoid deposit scams, fake bank drafts and wire fraud

✓ True-cost worksheet: tax, insurance, repairs and fees, so you know the real price

✓ Compare-3-cars sheet and a 10-minute final check before money changes hands

WHO IT'S FOR

• First-time buyers

• Anyone buying on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Kijiji or AutoTrader

• Parents helping a teen buy a first car

• Anyone who wants to pay a fair price and avoid a lemon

FORMAT

Instant PDF download, US Letter size, designed to print or use on your phone. 2026 edition: rules checked against official government sources in October 2026.

From Don't Buy Blind (dontbuyblindcars.com), an independent guide for used-car buyers in the US and Canada. We take no money from dealers or sellers. General information only, not legal, financial or mechanical advice. Always get an independent inspection.

REFUND POLICY

This is an instant digital download, so all sales are final. If your file doesn't download or open, email dontbuyblind.car@gmail.com and we'll send you a working copy.