How to Buy a Used Vehicle in Ontario, California

Buying a quality used car in California is easier when you know the right steps. Between strong consumer protections, diverse selection at dealerships, and potential savings on electric vehicles, today’s car shopping experience can be both safe and budget-friendly. Whether you’re searching for a fuel-efficient sedan, a spacious SUV, or an all-electric model, this guide will walk you through each stage, from research to signing the title.

Check the Vehicle History Report

Start every used car search by pulling the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into a trusted report. Discover things like Accident and repair history, Ownership changes, Salvage or flood titles, and Odometer discrepancies

California law requires licensed dealers to provide a printed history report at no extra cost. If your report flags a salvage title, severe collision damage, or rolled-back mileage, you may wish to reconsider that vehicle.

Inspect the Car and Take a Test Drive

A careful inspection and test drive often uncovers issues you can’t spot on paper. When you visit the dealership, be sure to:

• Examine tire tread, panel gaps, and paint consistency
• Open and close doors, windows, and trunk to check alignment
• Look under the hood for fluid leaks, corrosion, or cracked belts
• Verify all electronics, air conditioning, and heating

On the road, pay attention to how the car accelerates and brakes. Listen for grinding noises or rattles. Drive on a mix of smooth pavement and uneven surfaces to test suspension and steering. If you’re not confident in your own inspection, consider scheduling a pre-purchase check with a certified mechanic before making a purchase.

Know Your Consumer Protections

Purchasing from a licensed dealership brings added peace of mind. In California, the Used Car Lemon Law covers vehicles still under the original factory warranty. If the dealer cannot remedy a reported defect after a reasonable number of attempts, you may qualify for a refund or replacement. Dealers also handle title transfers and registration paperwork, which helps avoid DMV headaches.

Calculate Taxes and Fees

When budgeting for your next used car, factor in:

• State sales tax of at least 7.25 percent (local rates can push this above 10 percent)
• Title transfer fee
• Registration fees are based on vehicle value and weight
• Smog certification fee for models older than four years

Dealerships often roll these charges into your financing package, so you know exactly what to expect at signing.

Dealership vs private seller

You may find lower sticker prices with private sellers, but those deals rarely include warranties or dealer-handled paperwork. Buying from a dealership provides:

• Certified Pre-Owned options with extended coverage
• Transparent history reports and professional inspections
• Financing plans that suit your credit profile
• Single-stop DMV processing

At Ontario Auto Center, our 15 local dealerships showcase hundreds of used cars from multiple brands, making it simple to compare models under one roof. View Used Inventory

Tips for Negotiating the Best Price

Knowledge is power when you sit down at the bargaining table. Before you negotiate:

• Research similar listings on Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds to set a fair target price
• Keep financing, trade-in value, and add-ons separate from the vehicle’s purchase price
• Focus on the total out-the-door amount, not just monthly payments
• Be prepared to walk away if the terms don’t align with your budget

Used EV Incentives and Tax Credits

California drivers are charging up and saving when they choose a used electric vehicle. Current programs include:

• A federal used EV tax credit of up to $4,000 for vehicles two model years old or more and priced under $25,000
• State rebate programs such as Clean Cars 4 All, which help income-qualified buyers replace older cars with cleaner options

Check eligibility criteria online before you buy, as incentive levels and qualifications can change.

Finalizing the Purchase

After agreeing on price and financing, the final steps are:

• Signing the bill of sale
• Transferring the title to your name
• Completing any required smog certification

Licensed dealers handle all DMV paperwork for you. If you buy privately, make sure the seller signs the title correctly and submits a Release of Liability. Ontario Auto Center offers a wide range of used cars across multiple brands, allowing buyers to compare models in one location while benefiting from dealership protections.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does California’s Used Car Lemon Law cover
It applies to cars still under factory warranty. If repairs fail after a set number of tries, you may get your money back or a replacement vehicle.

How much is sales tax on a used car in California
The statewide base rate is 7.25 percent. Local districts can increase that total to over 10 percent in some areas.

Do I need a smog check before I buy
Most cars older than four model years require a smog inspection. Dealers typically include this in the purchase process.

Is it better to buy from a dealer or private party
Dealers offer warranties, financing, and consolidated paperwork. Private sellers can be cheaper but come with more risk and admin work. Ontario Auto Center offers a wide range of used cars across multiple brands, allowing buyers to see a large inventory in one location while benefiting from dealership protections.

Ready to Find Your Next Car?

Ontario Auto Center makes car shopping in California simple and secure. Browse our used car selection online or visit one of our 15 dealerships across Ontario, the Inland Empire, and beyond.