When you are buying a used car it can be difficult to making a good decision, not only do you forget to check certain things about the prospective car but you may also be an emotional buyer an be quickly swept up in the hype and excitement of buying a car. Perhaps take a moment to prepare and make use of this basic checklist. It may help you avoid some of the potential pitfalls of buying second hand.
Basic Used Car Inspection Checklist
Breaks. Step on the break pedal and see what resistance you get. If everything is ok it should be firm and hold pressure. A soft pedal or a pedal that sinks to the floor indicates a faulty break system. Also listen to the breaks and feel then through the pedal while driving. If there is any noise or vibrations there will have to be some repairs done.
Tires. Check the tires for uneven wear. Uneven wear indicates poor alignment and worn steering and suspension.
Steering. Take the car for a test drive and see if it pulls to one side or stays level. Pulling or swinging indicates a problem.
Headlights/Taillights/indicators. Make sure they work and check for cracks in the plastic covers.
Wipers. Check all speed settings and check to see if the wipers come to rest where they are supposed to.
Heaters/AC. Check for function. Also try vents and fan settings.
Check for warning lights. Ie Airbag, check engine, abs etc.
Check the dipstick. Check to see if there is sufficient oil in the vehicle and sample it's consistency. Poor quality oil (Black and full of grit) indicates potentially serious problems. Also if the level is low the owner probably did not take good care of the vehicle.
Engine. Does the vehicle start and run smoothly? If you can hear unusual noises, misfires or ticking there is most definitely a problem.
Transmission. Does it engage smoothly or do you hear grinding or get delays/slippage?
Check under the vehicle and in the engine compartment for leaks and wear. Also check fluid levels and the condition of belts and hoses.
Check the body for paint and body damage. Walk all the way around and also check the wheel wells. Also check doors, trunk, gas cap for alignment and function. Make sure the car has not been quickly painted over, check to see if the paint inside the trunk matches the exterior of the car.
Check the glass. Chips, cracks, scratches are expensive to fix.
Check the electronics. Power doors, seats, radio, horn, alarm, cig lighter, interior lights etc.
Check the carpets and seats for wear.
Before making any purchase double check registration details and titles. Also ask to see any maintenance records that the previous owner has kept. These will provide a starting point for scheduling your maintenance routines if you decide to purchase the vehicle.
Additional Buyer Resources can be found here and here.
