Try to see the vehicle when it has been sitting overnight to observe how it starts when it is cold. Always try to inspect vehicles during the day, when they can be easily seen. Don't hurry or let yourself be rushed. Inspect a vehicle you already own as a practice run. Doing so will provide a reference point.
| Evaluate: | Okay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Body | ||
| Seams Straight? | ||
| Body Panels Same Color? | ||
| Ripples And Dents? | ||
| Tires | ||
| All Tires Same Tread? | ||
| Uneven Tire Wear? | ||
| All Tires Same Size? | ||
| All Tires Same Brand? | ||
| Jack, And Lug Wrench? | ||
| Locking Hubcaps/Wheels? | ||
| Is The Key Available? | ||
| Good Spare Tire? | ||
| Jack and Tools? | ||
| Suspension | ||
| Does Vehicle Sit Level? | ||
| Bounce Each Corner. Should Bounce Back 1-2 Times. | ||
| Creaking Noise When Bouncing? | ||
| Frame | ||
| Inside Trunk, Wheel Wells, And Under Hood. | ||
| Look For Crumpled And Straightened Areas |
| Evaluate: | Okay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Interior | ||
| Tears, Stains, And Burns? | ||
| Dashboard And Headliner Condition? | ||
| Smells? | ||
| Seats Adjust Easily? | ||
| Window Cranks or Electric Open Easily? | ||
| Door Locks? | ||
| Other Controls Operate? | ||
| Interior Lights And Dash Bulbs? | ||
| Carpeting Smell Of Mildew Or Stale Water? | ||
| Accessories | ||
| (Operable And Learn To Use Them) | ||
| Heater, Air Conditioner? | ||
| Radio? | ||
| Alarm Operation? | ||
| Tape/CD Player? | ||
| Engine Compartment | ||
| Oil Or Fluid Leaks? | ||
| Unusual Noises? | ||
| Anything Appear To Be Missing? | ||
| Air Filter/Cleaner? | ||
| Pollution Control Equipment? |
| Evaluate: | Okay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Under the Vehicle | ||
| Fluid Leaks? What Color? | ||
| Parts Loose? | ||
| Parts Rusty? | ||
| Marks From Scrapes? | ||
| Engine | ||
| White Or Blue Smoke From Exhaust? | ||
| Engine Start Easily? | ||
| Engine Stall? | ||
| Engine Idle? | ||
| Engine Hesitate Or Stumble? | ||
| Engine Lacks Power? | ||
| Warning Lights Appear When Engine Off? | ||
| Engine Continues Running When Shut Off? | ||
| Transmission and Clutch | ||
| Automatic Shifting Smooth? | ||
| Manual-Shift Smooth? | ||
| Clutch Slip? | ||
| 4-Wheel Drive | ||
| Shift Smoothly In And Out? | ||
| Clunking Sounds While Turning? | ||
| Wheels Bind Or Pull? |
| Evaluate: | Okay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brakes | ||
| Vehicle Pull To One Side? | ||
| Brakes Stop Adequately? | ||
| ABS - Wheels Lock? | ||
| Parking Brake Holds Firmly? | ||
| Steering | ||
| Vehicle Drift To One Side? Which? | ||
| Steering Difficult? | ||
| Shaking Or Vibration? | ||
| Steering Wheel Centered? | ||
| Airbags | ||
| Driver? | ||
| Front Passenger? | ||
| Side Impact ? | ||
| Cutoff Switch? | ||
| Ever Deployed? | ||
| Repaired Where? | ||
| Other Concerns | ||
| Flood Damage? | ||
| Salvaged? | ||
| Corrosion On Electric Connectors? | ||
| Owners' Manual? | ||
| Repair And Service Records? | ||
| Clear Title? | ||
| Gas Cap? | ||
| Gas Cap Key? |
