50-Point Used Car Inspection Checklist

Don't buy a lemon. Check every box before you pay.

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Check oil dipstick for "mayonnaise"

Check transmission fluid color

Look for oil leaks

Check coolant overflow

Listen for ticking sounds

Check serpentine belt

Verify battery terminals

Check dash warning lights

Check window seals for overspray

Look for mismatched paint

Inspect door gaps

Check trunk for water damage

Look for rust bubbles

Verify all lights work

Check tire tread depth

Inspect wheel rims

Check for pulls left/right

Test brakes

Listen for transmission slip

Check power steering

Test windows and locks

Verify AC works

Test heated seats

Check warning lights

Tell seller NOT to start car before you arrive. If hood is warm, they're hiding issues.

Wipe exhaust pipe. Black soot = burning oil. Walk away.

Match VIN on dash to door sticker. Mismatch = rebuilt from wreck. Walk away.

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