Essential Inspection Checklist
Don't miss critical issues when viewing a used car with our comprehensive inspection guide.
6 minute read
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Pre-Purchase
Essential Inspection Checklist
Don't let excitement cloud your judgment when buying a used car. Our comprehensive inspection checklist helps you spot potential problems before making a purchase, potentially saving you thousands in unexpected repairs.
Before You Begin
For the most thorough inspection:
- View the car during daylight hours
- Inspect the car when it's dry (rain can hide paint and body issues)
- Take your time - a proper inspection shouldn't be rushed
- Bring a friend for a second opinion
- Consider having a professional mechanic inspect any car you're serious about
Exterior Inspection
Body Condition
What to Check:
- Walk around the entire car looking for scratches, dents, and rust
- Check panel gaps for consistency (uneven gaps suggest repairs)
- Look along the sides at eye level to spot waviness in the paint
- Check for color mismatches between panels
- Inspect door edges, wheel wells, and the bottom of doors for rust
Red Flags:
- Large rust spots or bubbling paint
- Evidence of major repairs or repainting
- Misaligned panels or inconsistent gaps
- Signs of flood damage (mud/silt in unusual places)
Tires & Wheels
What to Check:
- Inspect all four tires for even wear patterns
- Check tread depth (should be at least 1.6mm)
- Look for cracks, bulges, or cuts in the tire sidewalls
- Check that all tires are the same brand and size
- Inspect wheels for damage or excessive curb rash
Red Flags:
- Uneven tire wear (could indicate alignment issues)
- Different brands of tires (suggests piecemeal replacement)
- Excessive wear on outside or inside edges only
- Wheel damage that could affect balance or sealing
Glass & Lights
What to Check:
- Inspect all windows for cracks, chips, or scratches
- Check for properly functioning power windows
- Ensure all lights work (headlights, brake lights, indicators, etc.)
- Look for moisture inside light housings
- Check that headlights aren't foggy or yellowed
Red Flags:
- Cracks in the windshield (especially in driver's line of sight)
- Mismatched headlights or tail lights
- Moisture inside light housings (indicates sealing issues)
- Non-functioning lights or windows
Under the Hood
Engine Inspection
What to Check:
- Check all fluid levels and condition
- Inspect belts and hoses for cracks or wear
- Look for oil leaks or residue
- Check the battery terminals for corrosion
- Look for any loose wires or components
- Check the radiator and coolant reservoir
Red Flags:
- Milky oil (possible head gasket issues)
- Frothy oil cap underside (water contamination)
- Sweet smell from radiator (coolant leak)
- Low fluid levels across multiple systems
- Corroded battery terminals
- Brittle or cracked belts and hoses
Fluid Color Guide
- Engine oil: Clean oil is amber/honey colored. Black is normal for used oil, but shouldn't be gritty.
- Transmission fluid: Should be red or pink. Brown or dark red fluid needs changing.
- Brake fluid: Should be clear to pale yellow. If dark brown, it needs changing.
- Coolant: Usually green, orange, or pink (depending on type). Should look clean, not rusty.
- Power steering fluid: Should be clear, amber, or pinkish. Dark brown indicates old fluid.
Interior Inspection
Cabin & Controls
What to Check:
- Test all electronics (radio, air conditioning, heating, etc.)
- Check seat adjustments and conditions
- Test all door handles, locks, and windows
- Look under floor mats for dampness or rust
- Check headliner for sagging or stains
- Inspect dashboard for warning lights
- Test seatbelts for proper function
Red Flags:
- Musty or moldy smell (indicates water damage)
- Excessive wear inconsistent with mileage
- Warning lights that stay on after starting
- Non-functioning essential electronics
- Dampness under carpets or floor mats
- Missing or damaged safety equipment
Odometer & Documentation
What to Check:
- Compare odometer reading with service history
- Check for service stamps in the maintenance book
- Review all available service records
- Verify the VIN matches all documentation
- Check for previous NCT certificates
- Look at wear patterns inside to match mileage claim
Red Flags:
- Mismatched mileage between records and odometer
- Wear inconsistent with claimed mileage
- Missing service history
- VIN plates that appear tampered with
- Gaps in documentation history
- Digital odometer display issues
Test Drive Assessment
Always test drive any car you're seriously considering. Pay attention to these key areas:
Engine & Performance
- Cold start behavior (should start immediately)
- Acceleration and power (should be smooth)
- Unusual noises (knocking, ticking, hissing)
- Exhaust smoke color and volume
- Engine temperature stability
Transmission & Clutch
- Smooth gear changes (manual or automatic)
- Clutch engagement point (if manual)
- No slipping or grinding when shifting
- No delayed engagement in drive (automatics)
- No shuddering when accelerating or shifting
Steering & Suspension
- Car tracks straight (no pulling to either side)
- Steering wheel centered when driving straight
- No excessive bouncing over bumps
- No knocking sounds from suspension
- Steering feels precise, not loose
Brakes
- Car stops in a straight line
- No pulsating in the pedal during braking
- No squealing or grinding noises
- Handbrake holds the car on an incline
- Brake pedal feels firm, not spongy
After Your Inspection
Once you've completed your inspection, take time to:
- Review your notes and assess how many issues you found
- Estimate repair costs for any problems you're willing to address
- Get an independent inspection if you're serious about the car but have concerns
- Check the car's history report to verify what you've observed
- Compare with other similar cars to ensure you're getting a fair deal
Major Warning Signs
Consider walking away if you notice any of these serious issues:
- Signs of flood damage or major accident repair
- Evidence of odometer tampering
- Engine overheating or significant oil leaks
- Transmission slipping or grinding
- Significant rust in structural areas
- Vehicle identification numbers that don't match documentation
- Seller unwilling to allow a pre-purchase inspection
Printable Checklist
Want a handy version of this checklist to take with you when viewing cars? Download our printable PDF:
Download Inspection Checklist PDFRemember, a thorough inspection takes time but can save you thousands in unexpected repairs. Don't rush the process, and don't be afraid to walk away if something doesn't feel right. There are always more cars available, but repair bills can haunt you for years.