Used Car Inspection Checklist

Use this printable checklist when inspecting a used car before buying. Check each item and note any concerns. A professional inspection is always recommended.

1. Documents & Title

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

2. VIN Match

VIN on dashboard matches title

VIN on doorjamb matches title

VIN on engine block matches (visible through engine bay)

NoVIN plate appears tampered or missing

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

3. Recalls

Checked open recalls via GearVerify Recall Check

Any open recalls have been repaired (ask for proof)

Recall notice card in glovebox or service records

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

4. Exterior

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 chips in windshield (small chips OK, large cracks need replacement)

Tires match in size and are not excessively worn (check sidewall date codes)

Check tire date codes (4 digits: week/year) — tires older than 6 years may need replacement

5. Interior

Seats adjust properly and seat heaters work (if equipped)

No tears, stains, or excessive wear on upholstery

Air conditioning and heating work

Dashboard lights no warning lights on startup

All dashboard gauges and indicators work

Infotainment system, Bluetooth, USB, and AUX inputs work

No unusual smells (mold, smoke, burning oil, coolant)

6. Engine Bay

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 condition OK (no cracking, glazing, or excessive wear)

Radiator and hoses in good condition (no cracks, bulges, or soft spots)

7. Brakes & Suspension

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

8. Test Drive

Test drove at highway speed (65+ mph) — vehicle is stable and tracks straight

Transmission shifts smoothly (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

9. OBD-II Scan

OBD-II scanner connected — no pending codes

No stored codes from previous trips (check stored vs pending)

Check mode $06 and $0A if scanner supports it

All readiness monitors are ready (not "not ready" for smog)

Use GearVerify OBD Code Lookup to understand any codes found.

10. Seller Questions

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/water pump been replaced?

Are there any known mechanical issues?

Can I see service records?

Is there a warranty remaining?

11. Red Flags ⚠️

⚠️ VIN numbers don't match across locations

⚠️ Seller refuses test drive or OBD scan

⚠️ Salvaged or rebuilt title (unless disclosed at significant discount)

⚠️ Excessive oil consumption or milky oil cap (head gasket issue)

⚠️ Smoker's car or heavy pet smells that won't come out

⚠️ Mismatched paint panels (hidden collision repair)

⚠️ Seller can't produce title (stolen car, unpaid lien)

⚠️ Many stored codes that seller says "just came on"

⚠️ Very low asking price for age/mileage (possibly too good to be true)

12. Notes

Disclaimer: This checklist is for informational purposes only. It does not replace a professional pre-purchase inspection by a licensed mechanic. A no-match result on recall or OBD checks does not guarantee the vehicle is safe or free of defects. Always verify with the official source, manufacturer, or a qualified professional.