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.
Scan to open
| 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.