Before you meet the seller, ensure you have these items to properly use your checklist:
How to Inspect a Used Car Checklist The Car Basics: The Body
Look for windshield chips and ensure all headlights, indicators, and brake lights work. buying a used car checklist pdf
(Optional but recommended) to check for hidden or recently cleared engine codes. Used Car Inspection Checklist 1. Exterior & Bodywork
Pull the dipstick; "milky" oil can indicate a blown head gasket. Before you meet the seller, ensure you have
Look for corrosion on terminals and check for a recent "last replaced" date. Belts & Hoses: Check for cracks, fraying, or soft spots. 3. Interior & Electronics
Check for even tread wear (unevenness indicates alignment or suspension issues) and verify they are less than 10 years old. 2. Under the Hood (Engine) Exterior & Bodywork Pull the dipstick; "milky" oil
Ensure gaps between doors, hood, and trunk are uniform.