Used car inspection checklist

A practical checklist you can use on any used car

Use this checklist to document condition, spot risk indicators, and compare similar listings with the same criteria.

Exterior and body

Check panel gaps and paint consistency; mismatched panels can signal repairs.
Inspect for rust at wheel arches, rocker panels, and under door seals.
Verify all lights, turn signals, and lenses are intact and working.
Look for uneven tire wear that may indicate alignment or suspension issues.

Interior and electronics

Test HVAC, infotainment, windows, locks, and mirrors.
Confirm warning lights turn on at start and turn off after ignition.
Check seat adjustments, seatbelts, and signs of water intrusion.
Scan for unusual odors that suggest leaks or electrical issues.

Engine bay

Look for fluid leaks, cracked hoses, and brittle wiring.
Check oil level and color; thick sludge indicates poor maintenance.
Inspect coolant color and level (engine cold).
Verify battery age and look for corrosion at terminals.

Test drive

Start from cold to observe idle, smoke, and startup noises.
Listen for clunks over bumps and feel for steering vibration.
Test braking from highway speed; note pedal feel and pulling.
Confirm transmission shifts smoothly under light and firm throttle.

Paperwork

Match VIN on the dash, door jamb, and title.
Review service records for regular oil changes and major services.
Check for open recalls and verify they have been addressed.
Confirm title status is clean (no salvage, flood, or rebuilt branding).

Score the findings

Log issues by severity to prioritize what needs follow-up before committing to the purchase.

Finding type	Example	Typical impact
Minor cosmetic issues	Small scratches, worn trim, or aging plastics.	Low
Wear items near end-of-life	Tires, brakes, or battery needing replacement soon.	Medium
Mechanical or structural concerns	Leaks, frame damage, or drivetrain noises.	High

Live preview examples

These report previews show how checklist findings map to pricing and risk summaries.

Quick inspection cadence

5 minutes: Walkaround check for rust, paint match, and tire condition.
10 minutes: Interior, electronics, and under-hood fluids.
15 minutes: Test drive with braking, steering, and highway speeds.