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Buying a used car: inspection checklist

Check the papers, the body, the engine and the road manners before you hand over any money.

32 items · 6 sections · car, mechanic, money

Start this checklist

Before you go (5)

  • Set your total budget, including tax, insurance and first repairs
  • Get the VIN or registration number from the seller before you travel
  • Get a vehicle history reportIt may show accidents and flood damage, but usually not mechanical problems. UK: check the MOT history free.Open
  • Check for open safety recalls on that car
  • See it in daylight, on a dry dayRain and dark hide paint and body problems.

Papers (5)

  • Name on the title or registration matches the seller's ID
  • VIN on the papers matches the VIN on the car
  • Ask for service records and compare the odometer readings over time
  • At a dealer in the US, read the Buyers Guide on the carIt says whether the car is sold as is or with a warranty, and it overrides the sales contract.
  • Sold as is? Assume every repair after the sale is yours to pay

Outside and underneath (5)

  • Look along each side for ripples and paint that does not match
  • Check panel gaps are even on both sides
  • Check tyre tread and look for uneven wearUneven wear can point to bad alignment or crash damage. Check the spare and jack too.
  • Look for rust on the sills, wheel arches and under the car
  • Look for damp carpet or silt under the seatsBoth are signs of a leak or flood damage.

Engine, cold (6)

  • Ask the seller not to warm it up before you arrive
  • Check the oil is not milky and the level is right
  • Check the coolant is not oily or rusty
  • Look under the car for fresh drips
  • Start it: warning lights come on, then all go out
  • Watch the exhaust for blue or thick white smoke

Test drive (5)

  • Drive at least 20 minutes, with town and fast road
  • Brake firmly on a clear road: it stops straight, without pulling or shaking
  • Listen for knocks over bumps
  • Check gears change smoothly and the clutch does not slip
  • Try the AC, heater, windows, lights and wipers

Before you pay (6)

  • Pay an independent mechanic for an inspection, even on a certified carAsk for a written report with repair costs. If the seller refuses, walk away.
  • Use the repair estimate to negotiate the price
  • Get the out-the-door price and every add-on in writing
  • Get every promise in writing
  • Financing? Check the APR, total price and payment schedule before you sign
  • Arrange insurance before you drive it home

Written from consumer.ftc.gov

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