Used Car Inspection Checklist (Printable)

Item	Priority	Who	Time	What to check (Pass/Fail)	If failed (Next step)
VIN Match	Required	DIY	2 min	Dashboard and door sticker match title	Walk away; potential fraud
Body Panel Gaps	Required	DIY	5 min	Uniform gaps between all panels	Inspect for accident history
Tire Tread Depth	Recommended	DIY	5 min	Even wear; at least 4/32" depth	Budget for new tires
Oil Color/Level	Required	DIY	3 min	Amber/Brown; no milky residue	Possible head gasket failure
Transmission Fluid	Recommended	DIY	3 min	Pink/Red; no burnt smell	Service needed or avoid car
Brake Pad Life	Required	DIY	5 min	At least 3mm of pad remaining	Negotiate replacement cost
Battery Terminals	Recommended	DIY	2 min	Clean; no white/blue corrosion	Clean or replace battery
Warning Lights	Required	DIY	1 min	No Check Engine/ABS lights on dash	Scan with OBD-II tool
AC/Heater Function	Recommended	DIY	5 min	Blows ice cold and hot quickly	Check compressor or core
Window Regulators	Optional	DIY	3 min	All windows move smoothly/quietly	Repair motor or regulator
Coolant Level/State	Required	DIY	2 min	Bright color; no oil floating	Pressure test cooling system
Exhaust Smoke	Required	DIY	2 min	No blue, white, or thick black smoke	Internal engine repair needed
Steering Play	Required	DIY	5 min	No clicking or excessive vibration	Check tie rods/rack
Suspension Bounce	Recommended	DIY	3 min	Car settles immediately after push	Replace shocks or struts
Brake Feel	Required	DIY	10 min	Firm pedal; no pulling to one side	Inspect calipers/lines
Transmission Shift	Required	DIY	10 min	Smooth gear changes; no slipping	Avoid or get pro diagnosis
CV Boot Condition	Recommended	DIY	5 min	No grease leaking near wheels	Replace CV axle
Title/Paperwork	Required	DIY	10 min	Clean title; no liens; seller ID matches	Verify with DMV

Use the table above as your primary guide during the physical walkthrough. Mark each item as you go, and don't be afraid to ask the seller for clarification on any failures found.

If you find more than three 'Required' items failing, it is often a sign of poor maintenance. Use these findings as leverage for price negotiation or as a reason to seek a professional mechanic's opinion.