Shopping for a pre-owned car is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. The right vehicle should give you confidence, fit your lifestyle, and make sense for your budget. At Shepard Select in Thomaston, Maine, we know that trust matters when you are making such an important decision. That is why we encourage every shopper from Rockland, Camden, Waldoboro, Augusta, and across Midcoast Maine to ask the right questions before signing paperwork or driving away. These questions not only help you uncover the real value of a vehicle but also make sure you leave with peace of mind.
1. What is the history of this vehicle?
The very first question you should ask about any pre-owned car is about its history. Request the vehicle identification number (VIN) and run a report through trusted services like Carfax or AutoCheck. This will tell you whether the car has ever been in an accident, if it has suffered flood damage, or if the odometer has been rolled back. At Shepard Select, we make this step easy by providing full history reports so you can buy with confidence. When drivers from Camden to Augusta see a clean report, they know the vehicle has a strong foundation.
2. Has the car been inspected by a mechanic?
Even if a dealer says a car has been inspected, it is always smart to ask for proof or to have your own mechanic check it out. A thorough inspection can reveal hidden issues with the brakes, suspension, or electrical system. At Shepard Select, every vehicle goes through a careful multi-point inspection before it ever reaches our lot in Thomaston. That way, when you take a test drive, you are experiencing a car that has already been vetted for safety and dependability.
3. What is the total cost of ownership?
Price is important, but the sticker number is only part of the story. Think about insurance, routine maintenance, fuel efficiency, and even long-term depreciation. A car that looks like a bargain today may cost more tomorrow if repairs or insurance premiums are high. Shepard Select helps shoppers across Rockland and Waldoboro understand the total cost by outlining maintenance schedules, fuel economy expectations, and any upcoming service needs.
4. Is the price competitive in the market?
The easiest way to protect yourself financially is to make sure the price you are paying is in line with the market. Compare the dealership’s number to values on Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, or TrueCar. If the price seems higher, ask why. Sometimes the answer is that the vehicle is certified pre-owned with extended coverage or has been reconditioned with new parts. At Shepard Select, we price vehicles competitively for buyers across Midcoast Maine so you can feel confident you are getting excellent value.
5. Can I see the service records?
A well-maintained car almost always lasts longer than one with spotty or missing records. Ask for proof of oil changes, tire rotations, brake replacements, and other service. Our team at Shepard Select keeps detailed maintenance logs so you know exactly how a vehicle has been cared for before it reaches your driveway in Camden or Augusta. These records show you are buying more than just a car, you are buying years of responsible ownership.
6. What warranty or protection comes with the car?
Certified pre-owned vehicles often come with manufacturer warranties and roadside assistance. Even if a car is not certified, dealerships may offer their own coverage. At Shepard Select, we explain all warranty options clearly so you know what protection you have after you leave our Thomaston lot. From Rockland to Waldoboro, drivers appreciate that kind of transparency because it means they are not left guessing.
7. What are the terms for trade-in and financing?
Trade-ins and financing can make a big difference in your purchase. Ask how your current car will be valued, what loan terms are available, and whether there are any return policies. Shepard Select makes this process simple by offering fair trade-in values and flexible financing for buyers across Midcoast Maine. Our goal is to make sure you drive away in a vehicle that works for your budget as well as your lifestyle.
Why These Questions Matter?
For families in Camden, commuters in Augusta, and adventurers traveling the coast of Maine, a pre-owned car is more than just a way to get from point A to point B. It is part of your everyday life. Asking these questions means you are not just buying a car, you are buying security and confidence for every mile ahead. Shepard Select has built its reputation in Thomaston and beyond by providing honest answers to these questions and treating every customer like a neighbor.
Ready for Your Next Vehicle?
Buying a pre-owned car should feel exciting, not stressful. When you walk through the doors of Shepard Select or browse our online inventory at shepardselectcars.com, you will find a team ready to give you full transparency, fair pricing, and dependable vehicles. By asking these seven questions and letting us answer them openly, you can drive home knowing you made the right choice. That is why so many drivers across Rockland, Camden, Waldoboro, and Augusta would not want to buy a car from anywhere else.
