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Used Car Buying Checklist

40 critical checks before you sign — print or use on your phone

44 checks

🖨️ Print Checklist

🚗

Exterior Inspection

8 items

Check all windows for cracks, chips, or deep scratches
Inspect bumpers for dents, cracks, or uneven paint
Check all doors: smooth opening/closing, hinges OK
Look for rust on fenders, roof, and undercarriage
Check panel alignment — uneven gaps suggest past body work
Inspect paint from all angles for inconsistency (partial respray)
Check tires: even wear, tread depth at least 1.6 mm
Check windshield — no cracks in the driver's sightline

🔧

Under the Hood

8 items

Check oil level and color — amber/brown, not black sludge
Check coolant level — not murky or rusty
Check brake fluid, power steering, and washer fluid
Look for leaks: oil, coolant, or fluid under the car
Inspect belts and hoses — no cracks or unusual wear
Check battery terminals — clean, no corrosion
Smell for burning odors (oil, rubber, electrical)
Check if engine bay is suspiciously clean (pre-sale spray)

🪑

Interior Check

8 items

Check seats for tears, excessive wear, and height adjustment
Check dashboard — no warning lights (especially engine light)
Test A/C — adequate cooling, no unusual smell
Test seatbelts — smooth retraction and firm latch
Check sunroof/panoramic roof — no water stains, smooth operation
Check for OBD errors if possible (trip reset shows zero)
Listen for unusual noises while driving (rattles, knocks)
Inspect headliner and carpet for moisture/mold stains

⚙️

Brakes, Wheels & Steering

6 items

Check brake pads and rotors — adequate thickness, no cracks
Test hard braking — no pulling to one side
Check CV joints — clicking noise on turns under acceleration
Check shocks/struts — push down car, should not bounce more than once
Check steering — no free play, smooth full lock both ways
Check spare tire — proper pressure, no visible wear

📋

Documents & History

7 items

Check service book has consistent stamps from authorized dealers
Verify VIN matches on license, door jamb, and engine
Run a history report (Carfax or local equivalent)
Check for any outstanding liens, loans, or penalties
Verify registration is valid and next inspection is upcoming
Confirm seller is the registered owner on title
Get a signed invoice/contract — never close without paperwork

🛣️

Test Drive

7 items

Drive at least 20 minutes — including highway and city
Test gearbox — smooth shifts through all gears
Watch engine temperature — must not approach red zone
Check exhaust — no white, black, or blue smoke
Test radio, Bluetooth, backup camera, parking sensors
Check for steering wheel vibration at highway speeds
Test A/C cooldown speed and check for musty smell

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