Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection Checklist
A comprehensive guide to inspecting a used vehicle before purchase. Identify mechanical, electrical, and cosmetic issues to avoid costly hidden problems and negotiate with confidence.
Overview
Summary and key details for this checklist.
A thorough pre-purchase inspection typically takes between 60 to 90 minutes for a DIY enthusiast. If you choose to take the vehicle to a professional shop, they may require 2 to 3 hours to perform a comprehensive diagnostic and lift inspection.
This process is divided into static checks (engine off), interior/electrical tests, and a dynamic test drive. Performing these steps in order ensures you don't waste time on a test drive if the engine has major visible leaks or safety hazards.
Printable Checklist
A clean, scannable checklist view. (You can export/print from the sidebar.)
| Item | Priority | Who | Time | What to check (Pass/Fail) | If failed (Next step) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VIN Match | Required | DIY | 2 min | VIN on dash matches door jamb and title | Walk away; potential fraud |
| Engine Oil Level/Color | Required | DIY | 3 min | Amber/Brown; at 'Full' mark; no milky residue | Ask for service records; check for leaks |
| Transmission Fluid | Recommended | DIY | 3 min | Pink/Red; no burnt smell (if dipstick exists) | Budget for service or transmission repair |
| Coolant Condition | Required | DIY | 2 min | Bright color; no oil floating; no 'sludge' | Check for head gasket or radiator issues |
| Battery Terminals | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | Clean; no white/blue corrosion; tight fit | Clean terminals or replace battery |
| Tire Tread Depth | Required | DIY | 5 min | Even wear; >4/32 inch depth; no dry rot | Negotiate price for new tires |
| Brake Pad Thickness | Required | DIY | 5 min | At least 3mm of pad material visible | Schedule brake service immediately |
| Exhaust Smoke | Required | DIY | 2 min | Clear exhaust; no blue, thick white, or black smoke | Internal engine repair needed; seek shop |
| AC/Heater Function | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | Blows ice cold and hot within 2 minutes | Check compressor or heater core |
| Warning Lights | Required | DIY | 1 min | No Check Engine, ABS, or Airbag lights on dash | Scan with OBD-II; identify fault codes |
| Suspension Bounce | Optional | DIY | 3 min | Car settles immediately after pushing down corners | Replace struts or shocks |
| Frame/Unibody Damage | Required | DIY | 10 min | No welds, kinks, or crumples on frame rails | Walk away; structural safety compromised |
| Window Operation | Recommended | DIY | 3 min | All windows go up/down smoothly and quietly | Repair regulator or motor |
| Spare Tire/Jack | Optional | DIY | 3 min | Present, inflated, and tools are in the trunk | Purchase replacement kit |
| Test Drive: Alignment | Required | DIY | 10 min | Car tracks straight; steering wheel is centered | Perform wheel alignment |
Use this table as your primary guide during the walk-around. Mark each item clearly and take photos of any 'Fail' results to show a mechanic or use during price negotiations.
Consistency is key. If the seller rushes you or refuses to let you check specific items like the oil or the spare tire, consider it a significant red flag regarding the vehicle's history.
Notes
Extra context, cautions, and helpful tips.
Once the inspection is complete, take a moment to review your notes away from the seller to avoid emotional pressure.
- Keep a digital copy of your findings and photos for future reference.
- Dispose of any oily rags or chemicals used during the inspection safely.
- If you buy the car, reset the trip odometer to track your first tank of fuel efficiency.
- Common findings like worn tires or old wipers are great negotiation points.
- Always verify the Title is 'Clean' and matches the seller's ID.
- Check for open recalls using the VIN on the NHTSA website.
- If the car passes, consider browsing our Maintenance or Oil Change checklists to start your ownership right.
- Don't forget to check the Paperwork requirements for your specific state.
Related Checklists
More checklists with similar tags (mileage, interval, season, tasks).
FAQ
Common questions about this checklist.
Start from the complete car maintenance checklist, then narrow down by mileage, interval, and season.