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Free used-car checklist
Take this list with you when you go see the car. Print it or keep it on your phone. Check every item before you decide.
13 things to check before you buy
- 1
Check the title
Look for salvage, rebuilt, flood, or lemon labels. A clean title is the minimum.
- 2
Get a vehicle history report
Look for reported accidents, airbag deployment, and odometer rollbacks.
- 3
Check for open recalls
Use the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or ask the dealer. Free repairs may be available.
- 4
Ask for service records
Oil changes, timing belt, transmission, brake work. Gaps in the records are a red flag.
- 5
Inspect the body and paint
Mismatched paint, uneven gaps, or fresh undercoating can hide previous damage.
- 6
Start the engine cold
Listen for knocking, tapping, or rough idle. Check for smoke from the exhaust.
- 7
Test the transmission
Shifts should be smooth with no hesitation, slipping, or jerking. Test at low and highway speeds.
- 8
Check fluids and leaks
Oil, coolant, brake, transmission, and power-steering fluid. Look for wet spots under the car.
- 9
Test every light and switch
Headlights, turn signals, brake lights, wipers, horn, windows, locks, and infotainment.
- 10
Test the AC and heat
Run both on full. Weak airflow or weird smells can mean expensive repairs.
- 11
Check tires and brakes
Uneven tread wear, dry cracks, or thin brake pads mean money you will spend soon.
- 12
Test drive at different speeds
City, highway, hills, and tight turns. Listen for suspension noise and feel for pulling or vibration.
- 13
Get a pre-purchase inspection
Take the car to a mechanic you trust. It costs $100-$200 and can save you thousands.
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No sign-up needed to read or print.
Why use a checklist?
Catch what you would miss
In the excitement of a test drive, it is easy to forget a key check. The list keeps you on track.
Ask better questions
When you know what to look for, you can ask the seller the right questions and spot evasive answers.
Walk away with confidence
If you check every box, you have real evidence the car is worth your money. If not, you know to walk.
Sources and limits
This checklist is based on advice from Consumer Reports, the Federal Trade Commission, and NHTSA used-car buying guidance. It covers general inspection steps that apply to most used cars. It does not replace a professional mechanic's inspection. For car-specific problem patterns, recalls, and inspection steps backed by federal records,check the car at TireKick.