How do I inspect a used car before buying it?
Exterior and interior checks
Walk around the car in bright daylight and look for dents, scratches, rust, and paint overspray that could indicate bodywork. Check panel gaps and door alignment; uneven gaps often mean accident repairs. Look at the tires for uneven wear, which can signal alignment or suspension issues.
Inside, sit in every seat and check that seatbelts, windows, locks, and mirrors work. Turn on the radio, air conditioning, heater, and all interior lights. Look for water stains or musty odors that could mean leaks or flood damage.
- Check under the oil cap for milky residue (possible blown head gasket).
- Look at the coolant and brake fluid levels and colors.
- Inspect the spare tire and jack.
- Test the horn, wipers, and turn signals.
Under the hood and underneath
Open the hood and check for leaks, cracked belts, and corroded battery terminals. Look at the engine oil; it should be amber to dark brown, not black or gritty. Check the transmission fluid if the car has a dipstick (many newer cars don't).
If you can, look under the car for rust, especially on the frame and exhaust. Surface rust is common, but flaking or holes are serious. Also check for fresh undercoating that might hide rust.
Common mistakes
- Skipping the inspection because the seller seems trustworthy.
- Only looking at the car at night or in the rain, which hides flaws.
- Forgetting to check the spare tire and tools, which are often missing.
