A practical checklist for buying a used SUV: evaluating seating and cargo, comparing specific models, drivetrain and tire checks, and what to verify on a test drive.
Build Your Shortlist by Needs and Budget
Start by deciding how many passengers you need to carry regularly and how much cargo space you use day to day. An SUV that works for daily commuting may not work for family trips, and vice versa.
Budget should include ownership costs beyond the purchase price: fuel, insurance, registration, tires, and maintenance. AWD and 4WD systems can add maintenance costs compared to two-wheel-drive models.
- List the passengers, cargo, and daily driving conditions you expectInclude occasional uses, not just the common case.
- Compare purchase price with estimated fuel, insurance, and maintenance costsAWD/4WD may increase fuel use and service costs.
- Narrow your shortlist to SUVs whose seating, cargo, and drivetrain match your needsCompare specific models, not categories.
Compare Seating, Cargo, and Specific Models
Compare specific models rather than assuming that every two-row or three-row SUV has the same space. Third-row access, cargo room with seats occupied, and passenger comfort vary widely between models.
Check seating and cargo space with every row in the position you will actually use. Bring the measurements of strollers, luggage, or other items you carry, and try access to the rear seats.
- Check passenger comfort in every row, including the third row if presentAdults and children may have different experiences.
- Measure cargo space with seats up and foldedBring measurements of items you carry.
- Try installing and removing child seats if you use themCheck the owner’s manual for child-seat attachment information.
- Test access to the rear seats or third rowSome models require sliding the second row.
Check Drivetrain and Tires
Compare the drivetrain and tires fitted to each vehicle with the roads and conditions you expect to encounter. AWD or 4WD does not replace suitable tires or careful driving.
Check tire condition, tread, matching sizes, and manufacturer recommendations. Review how the specific AWD or 4WD system operates in the owner’s manual.
- Check tire condition, tread depth, and matching sizesWorn or mismatched tires can affect handling.
- Identify the drivetrain type and how it operatesReview the owner’s manual for the specific system.
- Compare the drivetrain with the roads and conditions you expectAWD/4WD adds cost and may reduce fuel economy.
- Ask about tire age and any recent tire replacementsTire rubber ages even if tread looks adequate.
What to Check on a Test Drive
A test drive is your chance to evaluate how the SUV performs under real conditions. Check visibility, seating comfort, braking, steering, and any features you need such as a power liftgate or folding seats.
Ask for available maintenance records and inspection findings, and compare them with the manufacturer’s service schedule. Consider an independent inspection before making your decision.
- Check visibility in all directions, including blind spotsAdjust mirrors and seats to your position.
- Test braking, steering, and ride comfort on familiar roadsInclude highway and low-speed driving.
- Test the climate control, lights, wipers, and infotainmentConfirm everything works before you buy.
- Test any liftgate, folding seats, or cargo features you needConfirm the features you need operate as expected and ask about any faults.
- Ask for maintenance records and compare with the service scheduleNote any overdue or outstanding service.