At Drivetown, we know buying a used car is a big decision—and one of the most common questions we hear is, “What’s the dealership responsible for, and what do I need to take care of as the new owner?”

In this blog, we’ll break down the basics of vehicle maintenance and explain our responsibility as the seller so you can buy with confidence.

What Drivetown Is Responsible For

Before any vehicle hits our lot, Drivetown takes the following steps to ensure you’re getting a reliable, road-ready car:

1. Basic Safety & Function Check

We make sure all vehicles meet essential safety and operational standards—including brakes, tires, lights, steering, and engine function.

2. Mechanical Inspection

Our team performs a mechanical inspection to check for major issues. If something needs attention, we either fix it or fully disclose it before you buy.

3. Vehicle History Reports

We provide access to Carfax or similar vehicle history reports so you can see if the car has had prior accidents, service records, or title issues.

4. Title & Emissions

All vehicles sold by Drivetown come with a clean title and, where required, a valid state inspection or emissions certification.

5. Optional Warranty or Protection Plans

While most used cars are sold “as-is,” we often offer warranty options or service contracts for added peace of mind.

What the Buyer Is Responsible For

Once the vehicle is yours, ongoing maintenance becomes your responsibility. This helps keep your car running smoothly and avoid unexpected repairs.

Common upkeep includes:

  • Regular oil changes

  • Tire rotations and replacements

  • Brake maintenance

  • Battery care

  • Fluid top-offs and filter changes

  • Scheduled services (like timing belts, spark plugs, etc.)

Final Thoughts

At Drivetown, we take our responsibility seriously—to provide you with a safe, dependable used vehicle and all the information you need to make an informed choice. After the sale, it's your job to keep the car well-maintained—but we’re always here if you have questions or need service recommendations.

Ready to find your next car? Stop by Drivetown today or message us anytime.