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.
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| 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.