How to Perform a Used-Car Inspection

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…

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.