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Used Car Inspection Checklist

Use this checklist when inspecting a used car before buying. Check each item, write notes, and get a professional pre-purchase inspection when possible.

Focus your inspection by vehicle type

Select a category to highlight what matters most for that type of vehicle.

Title is present and matches seller's name

Title is not branded/salvaged (check branded status)

Registration is current

Bill of sale or purchase agreement provided

Service records available (optional but recommended)

No lien indicated on title

VIN on dashboard matches title

VIN on doorjamb matches title

VIN on engine block matches if visible through engine bay

VIN plate does not appear tampered with or missing

Use GearVerify VIN Decoder to check vehicle identity and recall status.

Checked open recalls via GearVerify Recall Check

Any open recalls have been repaired (ask for proof)

Recall notice card or service record is available if applicable

A no-match result does not guarantee the vehicle is safe. Recalls can be added after an index update.

No major dents, dings, or collision damage

Paint color is consistent across all panels

No rust, especially on wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage

All lights work (headlights, taillights, turn signals, hazards)

Wipers and washers work

No cracks or major chips in windshield

Tires match in size and are not excessively worn

Tire date codes are checked; tires older than 6 years may need replacement

Seats adjust properly and seat heaters work if equipped

No tears, stains, or excessive wear on upholstery

Air conditioning and heating work

No warning lights remain on after startup

Dashboard gauges and indicators work

Infotainment, Bluetooth, USB, and AUX inputs work

No unusual smells such as mold, smoke, burning oil, or coolant

Engine starts quickly without excessive cranking

No abnormal noises on cold start (tapping, knocking, squealing)

No visible fluid leaks (oil, coolant, transmission, brake)

Oil is clean and at proper level, not milky or dark black

Coolant is at proper level and not rusty

No corrosion on battery terminals

Serpentine belt has no cracking, glazing, or excessive wear

Radiator and hoses are in good condition

Brake pedal feels firm and does not sink to floor

No grinding, squealing, or pulsation when braking

Emergency brake engages and holds

No clunking or knocking from suspension on test drive

Shocks and struts show no visible leaking

Steering wheel centered and no excessive play

Test drove at highway speed; vehicle is stable and tracks straight

Transmission shifts smoothly with no slipping, hesitation, or hard shifts

No warning lights illuminate during test drive

No unusual vibrations at speed

Brakes work well at city and highway speeds

A/C and heat work during drive

OBD-II scanner connected and no pending codes found

No stored codes from previous trips

Mode $06 and $0A checked if scanner supports it

Readiness monitors are ready, especially if emissions testing is required

Use GearVerify OBD Code Lookup to understand any codes found.

Why are you selling the car?

How long have you owned the car?

Has the car been in any accidents?

Is there any existing damage not visible?

Has the timing belt or water pump been replaced if applicable?

Are there any known mechanical issues?

Can I see service records?

Is there a warranty remaining?

VIN numbers do not match across locations

Seller refuses test drive or OBD scan

Salvaged or rebuilt title unless clearly disclosed and discounted

Excessive oil consumption or milky oil cap indicating possible head gasket issue

Smoker's car or heavy pet smells that may not come out

Mismatched paint panels suggesting hidden collision repair

Seller cannot produce title

Many stored codes that seller says just came on

Very low asking price for age and mileage

Used Car Inspection Checklist

Focus your inspection by vehicle type

Documents & Title

VIN Match

Recalls

Exterior

Interior

Engine Bay

Brakes & Suspension

Test Drive

OBD-II Scan

Seller Questions

Red Flags

Notes