The Ultimate Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist for a Used Car

Under the Hood: The Mechanical Heart

Fluid Levels & Condition: Check oil, coolant, and brake fluid. They should be at proper levels and not dirty.

Belts & Hoses: Look for cracks, fraying, or soft spots that suggest needed replacements.

Leaks: Look for any signs of fluid leaks after the car has been parked.

Exterior Inspection: Look Beyond the Shine

Body Panels & Paint: Check for mismatched colors, orange-peel texture, or overspray on trim that might indicate repairs.

Gaps & Alignment: Doors, hood, and trunk should have even gaps. Uneven spacing suggests poor repair work.

Tire Wear: Uneven wear patterns can mean alignment issues or suspension problems.

Glass & Lights: Check for cracks in windows and ensure all lights function properly.

Interior Investigation: The Story Inside

Pedals & Steering Wheel: Worn pedals or steering wheel on a low-mileage car? Mileage might be questionable.

Upholstery & Smells: Stains, tears, or musty odors can indicate poor maintenance or water damage.

All Electronics: Test every button, switch, and port – from power seats to the infotainment system.

The Test Drive: Beyond the Basics

Cold Start: Listen for unusual noises when starting a cold engine.
Steering Response: Should be tight and responsive without pulling to either side.
Transmission: Should shift smoothly without hesitation or jerking.

The ClassicAutoCars Advantage

While this checklist helps you spot obvious issues, our professional inspection goes much deeper. We examine everything from brake pad thickness to computer system diagnostics. Every car we sell includes: