Before you buy
Use this beside the car or give it to a mechanic. These checks come from problems in the records we reviewed. They do not replace a full used-car inspection.
Mark each check as you go. Your notes stay on this device.
Saved on this device. The shared link never includes a VIN.
Use these notes with a full inspection. A serious warning sign can be enough to walk away.
Ask the inspector to test the named system and note any warning lights, noises, leaks, or stored codes.
Electrical System owner reports: 10 reviewed owner reports for this model year mention electrical system.
Passes when: No matching symptom during inspection
Ask the inspector to test the named system and note any warning lights, noises, leaks, or stored codes.
Engine owner reports: 5 reviewed owner reports for this model year mention engine.
Passes when: No matching symptom during inspection
Owner reports are bound to model year 2021.
Warning signs: 10 reviewed owner reports for this model year mention electrical system.
Good signs: No matching symptom during inspection · Service history addresses the named condition
Owner reports are bound to model year 2021.
Warning signs: 5 reviewed owner reports for this model year mention engine.
Good signs: No matching symptom during inspection · Service history addresses the named condition
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“The contact owned a 2021 BMW 330i. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V056000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH, there was smoke coming from under the passenger side fender. The contact entered a nearby parking lot off the highway when the vehicle caught fire. The contact was able to exit the vehicle, and someone inside a nearby building extinguished the fire with a fire extinguisher. The fire department and police department arrived. A police report was not filed. The vehicle was towed and totaled. The contact did not sustain any injuries, and no medical attention was needed. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and had opened a case. The failure mileage was approximately 49,000.”
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“25V-636 This has been unresolved for 6 months with no sign of a fix. It’s a starter motor, not the space shuttle.”
The checklist cannot see the car’s full history or condition.
Check this year at your mileage