How to Perform a Used-Car Inspection
Avoid the most common, costly mistakes before you purchase that vehicle.
NOTE: This checklist is a courtesy to help people shopping for used vehicles. IT IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR AN INSPECTION BY A QUALIFIED TECHNICIAN. There are many issues that are difficult to find without a trained eye or putting the vehicle up on a lift.
Use this guide as a reminder to check for some of the more common and obvious problems we see after people purchase used vehicles. If you’d like a printable version of this checklist to take with you, just fill out the form below…
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You can download and print your own copy of our vehicle pre-purchase inspection checklist by entering your email address in the form below.
1) Questions for the Seller
- Why are you selling?
- Do you have maintenance/repair history?
- What brand/type of oil have you used?
- Who changed the oil?
- Has the timing belt been replaced? If so, when?
- Are there any known problems?
- Has the vehicle ever been in an accident?
- Do you have extra rims with snow tires?
- I need to take it to my mechanic for inspection.
Is that OK?
2) Check the Exterior
- Body line gaps are correct/consistent.
- Paint matches on all body panels.
- The hood fits and opens easily.
- Paint is not cracked or flaking on the bumpers.
- Windshield is not cracked.
- All exterior lights are operational.
- All mirrors work and are free of cracks.
3) Check Under the Vehicle
- No fluids are leaking.
- Nothing hanging down or loose.
- Tires are worn evenly, smooth, and free of bumps.
- Tires are not cracked and no damaged to the sidewalls.
- All tires are the same size and same brand.
- All tires have the same tread depths.
- Wheel lock is present.
4) Check Under the Hood
- Fluid levels are full and clean.
- Oil dipstick is not discolored.
- Battery terminals are not corroded.
- No rusty stains or signs of overheating.
- Drive belts are not cracked.
- Radiator/heater hoses are soft and pliable.
- Hose clamps are not rusty.
5) Check the Interior
- Key on, engine off, check engine lights illuminate.
- Seat belts work.
- Power windows work from all switches.
- Power door locks work from all switches.
- Interior lighting works.
- Power receptacles/USB ports working.
- Radio working.
- Windshield wipers working, no streaking.
- Horn operates.
- Turn signals and emergency flashers working.
- Carpet is dry and free of water stains.
- No musty orders.
- No signs of cigarette smoking.
- A/C and heater controls working.
- HVAC blower motor works on all speeds.
6) With the Engine Running
- Starts easily, no extended or slow cranking.
- Idles smoothly and exhaust is quiet.
- Dash gauges work and read normally.
- No warning lights illuminated.
7) Test Drive
- No noises, rattles, or knocks.
- Drives straight, steering is tight.
- Stops smoothly, brake pedal firm with no pulsations felt while braking.
- Transmission shifts smoothly, no jerking or delayed hard-shifting.
- Engine temperature is normal.
- Accelerates smoothly.
- Operates well at 30, 45, and 60 MPH.
8) Local? Schedule Now!
- ASE Certified Master Technicians
- Peace of Mind for your new investment
- Don’t buy used without a professional inspecting the vehicle
- We have saved people thousands of dollars in repairs
- Only $99
