Buy a used vehicle

Steps to buying a used vehicle

Inflated prices, hidden damage, mechanical problems, liens, impulse buys —we've all heard the horror stories. But buying a used car doesn't have to be that way. By following our recommended steps, you can get an excellent vehicle for a decent price.

Vehicle history reports

A vehicle history report can tell you a lot about a car you're thinking of buying, such as whether it has been damaged or stolen.

Flood-damaged vehicles

You should be aware that some people may try to sell water-damaged vehicles at bargain prices. Some water-damaged vehicles cannot be licensed for road use.

Inspecting a used vehicle

Spot signs of trouble by following our inspection checklist. If you're serious about the vehicle, we strongly recommend having it inspected by a professional mechanic.

Buying from a licensed dealer

When you buy from a licensed dealer and salesperson, you obtain certain protections. Learn more about car dealers' responsibilities and get tips on how to recognize an unlicensed dealer posing as a private seller from the ​Vehicle Sales Authority of British Columbia.​

Completing the sale and transferring ownership

When arranging payment of the vehicle, you and the seller must complete and sign in full a transfer/tax form (electronic signatures are not accepted). Then, return the completed transfer/tax forms plus the seller's signed vehicle registration to any Autoplan broker. You can complete the transfer of ownership transaction at the broker's office.

You can download a Transfer/Tax form  and complete it​ using Acrobat Reader or pick up a copy from any Autoplan ​broker. Please note that original signatures are still required.

Once the vehicle is registered in your name, you can get licence plates and insurance for it.

Note: if you are transferring an existing insurance policy to the vehicle you are purchasing, you must complete a separate Transfer/Tax form. To determine your eligibility for a usage-based discount, you must include the previous vehicle’s odometer reading.

PST on vehicles

If you are buying or importing a vehicle or giving or receiving a vehicle there may be provincial sales tax applicable and exemptions may apply. Find out more about PST on vehicles​. 

If you have more questions, talk to your Autoplan broker or read the B.C. Government bulletin on vehicle tax.