How to Inspect a Used Car

You will learn what to inspect on a car before buying it used.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Phillips and Flat Head Screwdriver
• Flashlight
• Spark plug socket with ratchet (extenstions may be needed)
• Tire tread depth gage or a Penny
• 1 rag
• Small handheld volt meter
• Jack and lug wrench
• Tire Wedge

1. Check all inside lights (dome light, dash lights, inside door lights, ect) Check all exterior lighting (headlights, brake lights, turn signals, hazards, and fog lights) Also check horn.

2. Pop hood, check air filter (remove air filter cover or upper housing: phillps or flat head screwdriver may be needed) sign that it needs to be replaced: Debris under filter or if it looks dirty

3. Use a rag to check all fluids.
   Oil Level: remove dipstick and wipe clean. Reinsert dipstick and check level as marked on stick.
   Transmission fluid: if vehile is equipment with dipstick it should be checked the same way as the oil only with the car running. If doesn't have dipstick it may not be serviceable. The fluid should be bright red.
   Coolant Level: look through coolant reservoir to make sure color matches the antifreeze sticker under the hood and make sure antifreeze levels are where the reservoir is marked. Make sure not to open when hot.
   Power stearing fluid: look into reservoir or remove dipstick (depends on vehicle) Fluid should be light brown or red.
   Brake Fluid: look through reservoir fluid should be clear to light brown or green.
   
   Check above and under engine compartment for any fluid leaks.

4. Check battery with a hand held volt meter. Battery should be no lower than 12 volts. Check holds down on battery, make sure they are not lose. Check for corrosion on cables, it is a sign that the battery has a leak.

5. Check all tires for wear and tread depth, use a tire tread depth gage. Make sure to check the spare. All tires should have more the 3/32 of tread.

6. Use a flashlight and do a visual inspection of brakes. Make sure the break rotor is smooth and shows no signs of damage. Look at brake pad and make sure it is touching the rotor. If the vehicle has been sitting for more than a day, rust is normal.

7. Take the vehicle for a test drive. Pay close attention to noises (knocking, clunking, squeaking) and vibrations in the steering wheel mostly when braking. Ask owner/dealership for all maintenace records they have.

8. Walk slowly around vehicle and check for any cosmetic damages (dents, scratches, windshield knick and crack, rust) Check the inside for any mold, fabric stains or tears, under seats for rust (a sign of flood damage)

9. Check all electronics (power windows, locks, seats, heated seats, radio, CD player, windshield washer, windshield wipers, Onstar, DVD players, navigation system, defroster, sunroof, ect)

Tips & Warnings

• There could be other major things wrong with a vehicle that you or a mechanic may not find, use this as a guide only if the vehicle is out of a factory warranty. If you find anything wrong on this check list check with a mechanic to make sure there isn't a larger issue.