Car Inspection Checklist

PRE-PURCHASE CAR INSPECTION VIDEO

CAR INSPECTION CHECKLIST BEFORE BUYING

• Engine – engine must run smoothly without any excessive sound or shake while the car is static or in motion.
• Engine oil – proper engine oil should be in bright honey colour, not any darker or black. The oil should also be viscose and not too runny.
• Smoke – Smoke has to have no colour. If you see any blue, grey or white smoke, the car can potentially have mechanical faults.
• Radiator coolant – you should see no residue stuck on the coolant cap. The coolant should be clean and brightly coloured, typically green or red.
• Fluid leaks – Any leak under or around the vehicle should be checked properly. Look around the engine compartment and underneath the car for signs of oil, coolant or other leaks that might indicate poor maintenance and potential repairs.
• Exhaust – Smoke that has any colour such as blue, white or grey show that there is a problem with the vehicle. Excessive exhaust noise or a knocking sound from under the car can indicate an exhaust system problem.
• Vehicle identification – Check that the car’s VIN (vehicle identification number) matches the VIN on the registration papers. Open the bonnet and look for a small silver build plate that is usually in one of the rear corners of the engine compartment.
• Lights – test all the lights including the indicators. Having someone to help makes this job much faster. Testing the brake lights needs someone to help.
• Body and paint – Inspect the body for dents, ripples, loose, mismatched panels, paint overspray, evidence of rust or crash repairs. Make sure you put the car on a jack and inspect under the vehicle as well.
• Interior – Check the seats, carpet and interior plastics for stains, damage, cracks or wear and tear. Use your logic to see whether the condition is in line with the age of the vehicle you are inspecting.
• Electronics – Ensure all the car electronics are functional including the air conditioning and fan, power windows and mirrors, audio system, satellite navigation, parking sensors and reversing camera.
• Tyres – Ideally, the tyres should be of the same brand and pattern. Check the thread and the sides for any tear or damage. That can pose a safety risk and needs immediate attention. A thread of Less than 1.6mm is an offence by law in NSW.
• Seat-belts – Ensure all the seatbelts are operational. If you have a child, ensure the rear seat belts work smoothly and properly.
• Warning lights – With the engine running, you should see no illuminated warning lights.
• Jack and tool kit – Make sure the car has a jack and its tool kit. It is a must-have in all vehicles no matter what the usage type is.
• Test drive – Road test of the used car is the most important part that needs to be done before purchase. Ensure that the vehicle runs smoothly, gear shifts are smooth and no extra sound is being made when the car is in motion.