Used Car Negotiation Checklist
Master the art of used car negotiation with this comprehensive checklist. Document mechanical issues, estimate repair costs, and structure your offer to get the best price possible.
Overview
Summary and key details for this checklist.
Negotiating the price of a used car is not about being aggressive; it is about being informed. This checklist helps you transform a visual inspection into a financial leverage tool. By documenting specific maintenance needs, you shift the conversation from 'I want to pay less' to 'The car requires $1,200 in immediate repairs, which justifies a lower offer.'
The process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes for the inspection and 15 to 30 minutes for the actual price discussion. While a DIY approach is excellent for initial screening, having a professional shop perform a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) provides the strongest leverage for high-value negotiations.
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) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tire Tread Depth | Required | DIY | 5 min | All tires >4/32"; even wear | Deduct $600-$1,000 for set |
| Brake Pad Thickness | Required | DIY | 5 min | Pads >3mm; no squealing | Deduct $300-$500 per axle |
| Service Records | Recommended | DIY | 10 min | Documented oil changes/intervals | Lower offer due to risk |
| Check Engine Light | Required | DIY | 2 min | Light is OFF; no pending codes | Require shop diag or walk away |
| Oil Condition/Level | Required | DIY | 3 min | Amber/Brown; at 'Full' mark | Deduct for immediate service |
| Transmission Shift | Required | DIY | 15 min | Smooth shifts; no slipping | Walk away (major expense) |
| AC/Heater Function | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | Blows ice cold and hot air | Deduct $500-$1,500 for repair |
| Exterior Paint/Body | Optional | DIY | 10 min | No major dents or rust bubbles | Deduct $200 per panel/dent |
| Suspension Noise | Recommended | DIY | 10 min | No clunks over bumps | Deduct $400-$800 for struts |
| Fluid Leaks Under Car | Required | DIY | 5 min | Ground is dry after idling | Identify source; deduct repair |
| Battery Age/Health | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | Label < 4 years old; no corrosion | Deduct $150-$200 |
| Windshield Cracks | Required | DIY | 2 min | No chips or 'spider' cracks | Deduct $300-$800 for glass |
| Interior Odors | Optional | DIY | 2 min | No smoke or mold smells | Deduct $200 for detailing |
| Spare Tire/Tools | Recommended | DIY | 3 min | Spare present and inflated | Deduct $100-$200 |
| Timing Belt History | Required | DIY | 5 min | Changed per manual (if applicable) | Deduct $800-$1,200 |
| Power Windows/Locks | Optional | DIY | 5 min | All switches operate smoothly | Deduct $150 per motor |
| Exhaust Smoke | Required | DIY | 2 min | No blue, white, or black smoke | Walk away (engine damage) |
| Title Status | Required | DIY | 5 min | Clean title; matches VIN/Seller | Walk away if 'Salvage' |
Use the table above to tally up 'failed' items. For every failure, research the local cost of repair and subtract that from the seller's asking price. This provides a factual basis for your offer that most sellers find difficult to argue against.
Always prioritize safety and mechanical items over cosmetic ones. A car with bad paint but a perfect engine is a better value than a shiny car that needs a transmission. If the total repair costs exceed 25% of the car's value, consider looking for a different vehicle.
Notes
Extra context, cautions, and helpful tips.
Once the negotiation is complete and a price is agreed upon, ensure the paperwork is handled correctly to protect your investment.
- Keep a copy of your inspection notes for your own maintenance records.
- Always verify the VIN on the title matches the VIN on the dashboard and door jamb.
- Dispose of any shop rags or chemicals used during your DIY inspection properly.
- If you buy the car, reset the trip odometer to track your first tank of fuel.
- Record the date of purchase and mileage for future resale value.
- Check for open recalls on the NHTSA website using the VIN.
- Ensure you receive all sets of keys and the owner's manual.
- Browse similar checklists like Paperwork and Inspection to finish the process.
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FAQ
Common questions about this checklist.
Start from the complete car maintenance checklist, then narrow down by mileage, interval, and season.