Buy Used Car Checklist (Printable)

Item	Priority	Who	Time	What to check (Pass/Fail)	If failed (Next step)
VIN Match	Required	DIY	5 min	VIN on dash, door, and title match	Walk away; potential fraud
Engine Oil Level/Color	Required	DIY	5 min	Amber/Brown; at 'Full' mark	Negotiate or investigate leaks
Tire Tread Depth	Recommended	DIY	5 min	At least 4/32" depth; even wear	Budget for new tires ($400+)
Exhaust Smoke	Required	DIY	2 min	No blue, white, or thick black smoke	Major engine/turbo repair needed
Transmission Shift	Required	DIY	20 min	Smooth shifts; no slipping/clunking	Avoid purchase; high repair cost
Brake Pedal Feel	Required	DIY	5 min	Firm; no pulsing or pulling to side	Inspect pads, rotors, or master cylinder
AC/Heater Function	Recommended	DIY	5 min	Blows ice cold and hot within 2 mins	Negotiate $300-$1k off price
Warning Lights (Dash)	Required	DIY	2 min	No Check Engine, ABS, or Airbag lights	Scan for codes; professional diag
Coolant Condition	Required	DIY	2 min	Bright color; no oil or 'milkshake' look	Blown head gasket; walk away
Body Panel Alignment	Recommended	DIY	10 min	Consistent gaps between all panels	Check for hidden accident history
Suspension Noise	Recommended	DIY	10 min	No squeaks or clunks over bumps	Inspect struts, bushings, or ball joints
Battery Terminals	Optional	DIY	2 min	No heavy corrosion or loose cables	Clean or replace battery/cables
CV Boot Condition	Recommended	DIY	5 min	No tears or grease leaking near wheels	Replace axle or boot soon
Interior Odors	Recommended	DIY	2 min	No moldy, smoky, or sweet (coolant) smells	Check for flood damage or leaks
Spare Tire & Jack	Optional	DIY	5 min	Present and properly inflated	Purchase replacements immediately
Title & Paperwork	Required	DIY	10 min	Clean title; seller ID matches title	Do not buy until title is cleared
Brake Fluid Level	Required	DIY	2 min	Level between Min/Max; clear/gold color	Flush system or check for leaks
Power Steering Fluid	Recommended	DIY	2 min	No burnt smell; level is correct	Inspect pump and rack for leaks
Window Operation	Optional	DIY	5 min	All windows go up/down smoothly	Repair regulator or switch
Headlights/Signals	Required	DIY	5 min	All bulbs functioning (High/Low/Turn)	Replace bulbs or check fuses

Use the table above as your primary guide during the walk-around and test drive. Mark each item clearly to maintain an objective view of the vehicle's value.

If more than three 'Required' items fail, it is generally advisable to seek a professional mechanic's opinion or look for a different vehicle. Minor 'Optional' failures are excellent leverage for price negotiation.