How to Inspect a Car
When buying or selling a car, the first thing you should do is inspect the car and have it appraised. You can take your car to a dealer or mechanic and have it done there, or you can inspect the car yourself by following these steps.
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Instructions
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Inspect the Exterior of the Car
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Examine the paint to see if it's faded or worn. Check for scratches, chips, dings and rust.
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Find out if the vehicle had any body work. If it did, look the car over to make sure it was done right. Check the doors to make sure they are straight and aligned, open and close smoothly and have a proper seal from noise and the outside environment.
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Inspect the windshield and windows. Make sure there aren't any cracks, holes or scratches, and that the windows operate normally,
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Check the mirrors and headlights to make sure there aren't any scratches or broken pieces, including the areas around the mirrors and lights. Make sure the mirrors are attached tightly and are able to be positioned properly. Make sure the lights work properly.
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Look over the front and back bumpers for any damage, including dings, dents or scratches. Make sure the trim is in good condition, and that there isn't any missing or incomplete molding or trim. Make sure the trim is secured tightly. If the trim is rubber or vinyl, make sure it's not faded.
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Make sure the tires are in good shape. Check to see if the tread is worn evenly and if there's adequate tread on the tires. Examine the wheels for scrapes and scuffs.
Inspect the Interior of the Car
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Check the carpets, mats and seats for wear, stains, rips and fades. Make sure there are no cigarette burns or stains.
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Examine the electrical equipment and components (radio, odometer, air conditioning, etc.) for any defects or problems.
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Make sure the seats are functional and that the seat belts work properly. You might want to have a technician inspect the seat belts to make sure they work properly.
Inspect the Car's Mechanical Soundness
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Start the car and listen to the engine. Make sure there aren't any unusual sounds, such as whistling, rumbling, pinging, knocking or backfiring.
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Look under the front and back of the car for any fresh fluid drips. Check under the hood for leaks around the engine seams and hose connectors.
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Test drive the car to see if it accelerates smoothly, responds quickly to turns, pulls in either direction, or makes any unusual noises. Test the brakes and make sure they work properly, and that they don't squeak or grind.
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Tips & Warnings
Save time and have your car appraised by an auto dealer (see Resources).
