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Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
Use this checklist before buying any used car. Tick each item as you go. If you're unsure about anything, walk away and get a qualified mechanic to inspect the car first.
Exterior
- Panel gaps are even — mismatched gaps can indicate accident repair.
- Paint colour and finish is consistent across all panels — look for overspray on door seals or trim.
- No signs of rust, especially around wheel arches, sills, and door bottoms.
- All lights (headlights, rear lights, indicators, fog lights) work correctly.
- Tyres have even tread depth (minimum 1.6mm legal limit, aim for 3mm+) and no cracks.
- Windscreen has no chips or cracks (chips may fail NCT).
- All glass (windows, mirrors) is intact and operates correctly.
- No signs of water damage inside door frames or boot seal.
Interior
- All electronics work: windows, mirrors, climate control, infotainment, seats.
- No warning lights on the dashboard (start the engine and wait a minute).
- Upholstery and trim in the condition described — no hidden damage under mats.
- Smell inside is normal — musty or damp smell can indicate water ingress.
- Seat belts lock and release properly on all seats.
- Boot opens, closes, and seals properly. Check for signs of water staining.
- Air conditioning cools properly (may need regassing if not).
Under the bonnet
- Engine oil is at the correct level and not black or milky (milky = head gasket concern).
- Coolant is at the correct level and is the correct colour (not brown or rusty).
- No visible leaks — look for oil, coolant, or brake fluid on the engine or ground beneath.
- Cam belt/chain: ask when it was last changed, or if it's overdue.
- No excessive smoke when the engine is started or revved.
- Battery terminals are clean and secure.
Test drive
- Engine pulls smoothly through all RPM ranges without hesitation.
- Gearbox changes gear smoothly (manual: no crunching; automatic: no jerking or slipping).
- Brakes stop the car in a straight line with no pulling, grinding, or pulsing through the pedal.
- Steering is responsive with no play, vibration, or pulling to one side.
- Suspension feels solid — no clunking over bumps, no excessive body roll.
- No unusual noises (rattles, knocking, squealing) at any speed.
- All electrics tested again during the drive (heated seats, mirrors, audio).
Documents
- VRC (logbook) — check VIN, registration, make and model match the car exactly.
- Seller's ID matches the name on the VRC.
- NCT cert is present and consistent with mileage history.
- Service book is present and stamps align with the mileage shown.
- No outstanding finance — ask for evidence that finance has been cleared.
- Number of previous owners matches what the seller stated.
- Any import paperwork present if the car was imported.
This checklist is for general guidance only. Consider having the car independently inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchase.