What to Bring When Buying a Car in Ontario

Bring your list, not just your enthusiasm

A good dealership visit answers the questions you came with. Bring your budget, must-haves and the models you want to see. Save any quotes you already have so you can compare the same numbers.

Need to fit a stroller, sports gear or a dog crate? Ask to bring it along. Measuring the cargo space beats guessing from a photo.

Match the checklist to the visit

You’re going to…	Have ready
Look at cars	Your shortlist, budget and must-haves
Take a test drive	Your licence and the documents the seller asks for, plus a few things to try on the drive
Discuss a trade	Year, make, model, trim, kilometres, condition and current loan payoff
Review a purchase	The full quote, comparison notes and any promises in writing
Pick up the car	Your agreement and the payment, insurance and registration items confirmed by the dealer

Call ahead. Ask exactly what to bring and which payment methods they accept. A quick check can save a second trip.

Make the test drive useful

Try the seat adjustments, rear access and visibility. Check how the car fits where you park and how easy it is to load. Bring the people who’ll use the passenger seats when practical.

Write down anything you want to ask afterward. It’s easy to forget a small annoyance once the conversation turns to price.

Bring both trade numbers

Your car’s value and the loan payoff are separate. Ask your lender for a current payoff figure, then use the trade-in calculator to see the difference.

Have the basic vehicle details ready for the appraisal. Give identity, banking or loan documents directly to the dealership through its document process; Next Car Guide doesn’t collect them.

Buying privately?

Use Ontario’s private used-vehicle checklist for the paperwork and registration steps. Check those requirements before meeting the seller.

Leave with a clear next step

Before signing, read the full agreement. Check that repairs, accessories and delivery promises are written down. Keep your copy and confirm the pickup plan.

Start with Find My Car if you still need to put your shopping list together.