Used SUV Buying Guide: What to Check Before You Buy
The short answer: decide the size and drivetrain you need, then focus on the vehicle's history, maintenance records and condition rather than mileage alone. A pre-purchase inspection and a test drive help confirm what the paperwork says.
Choose the Right Size and Seating
Compact, midsize and three-row SUVs serve different needs. See compact vs midsize SUV and the third-row SUV buying guide.
Used SUV Checklist
| Check | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Vehicle history report | Accidents, title status, owners and reported mileage |
| Service records | Regular maintenance and completed recall repairs |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel, all-wheel or four-wheel drive; confirm how it behaves on a test drive. See FWD vs AWD |
| Tires and brakes | Even wear and remaining life, which affects near-term cost |
| Rust and underbody | Important where roads are salted in winter |
| Third row and cargo | Test the seats, latches and access with your own gear or car seats |
A detailed list is in what to look for in a used car. Mileage is only one clue; see how many miles is too many.
Used or Certified Pre-Owned?
Certified programs have manufacturer-set criteria that vary by brand. Compare in used vs certified pre-owned. Ask the store what applies to a specific vehicle.
Financing and Trade
Review how auto financing works, start financing or value your trade.
Shop Used SUVs
Browse used SUVs, used vehicles across Dial or all SUVs.
Keep Researching
- Used vs Certified Pre-Owned
- What to Look for in a Used Car
- Compact vs Midsize SUV
- Used Vehicles Across Dial
- Research Center
Shop at the Right Dial Location
Dial Auto Group has five Chicago dealerships. Each brand is sold at specific stores, so start with the store that carries the vehicle you want.
| Dealership | Brands | Address | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dial Chevy of Chicago | Chevrolet | 6603 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60636 | New | Used |
| Dial Nissan of Chicago | Nissan | 7410 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60636 | New | Used |
| INFINITI of Chicago | INFINITI | 2711 S State St, Chicago, IL 60616 | New | Used |
| Dial Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Chicago | Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram | 7340 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60636 | New | Used |
| Jeep of Chicago | Jeep | 5950 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60659 | New | Used |
See all Dial Auto Group locations or search new and used inventory across the group.
Last reviewed October 2026 by Dial Auto Group. This guide is general information, not financial or legal advice. Vehicle features, availability and pricing vary by model and dealership; confirm details with the store.