27880 Industrial Street, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
(239)992-0437
Vehicle PrePurchase Inspection Checklist
Use this guide as a reminder to check for some of the more
common and obvious problems we see after people
purchase use vehicles. If you have questions or would
like more details about this checklist, call John at (239)992-0437.
1) Questions for the Seller
Why are you selling?
Do you have maintenance/repair history?
What brand/type of oil have you used?
Who changed the oil?
Has the timing belt been replaced? If so, when?
Are there any known problems?
Has the vehicle ever been in an accident?
Do you have extra rims with snow tires?
I need to take it to my mechanic for a DME test and an
inspection. Is that OK?
2) Check the Exterior
Body line gaps are correct/consistent.
Paint matches on all body panels.
The hood fits and opens easily.
Paint is not cracked or flaking on the bumpers.
Windshield is not cracked.
All exterior lights are operational.
All mirrors work and are free of cracks.
3) Check Under the Vehicle
No fluids are leaking.
Nothing hanging down or loose.
Tires are worn evenly, smooth, and free of bumps.
Tires are not cracked and no damaged to the sidewalls.
All tires are the same size and same brand.
All tires have the same tread depths.
Wheel lock is present.
4) Check Under the Hood
Fluid levels are full and clean.
Oil dipstick is not discolored.
Battery terminals are not corroded.
No rusty stains or signs of overheating.
Drive belts are not cracked.
Radiator/heater hoses are soft and pliable.
Hose clamps are not rusty.
5) Check the Interior
Key on, engine off, check engine lights illuminate.
Seat belts work.
Power windows work from all switches.
Power door locks work from all switches.
Interior lighting works.
Power receptacles/USB ports working.
Radio working.
Windshield wipers working, no streaking.
Horn operates.
Turn signals and emergency flashers working.
Carpet is dry and free of water stains.
No musty orders.
No signs of cigarette smoking.
A/C and heater controls working.
HVAC blower motor works on all speeds.
6) With the Engine Running
Starts easily, no extended or slow cranking.
Idles smoothly and exhaust is quiet.
Dash gauges work and read normally.
No warning lights illuminated.
7) Test Drive
No noises, rattles, or knocks.
Drives straight, steering is tight.
Stops smoothly, brake pedal firm with no pulsations felt while
braking.
Transmission shifts smoothly, no jerking or delayed hard-
shifting.
Engine temperature is normal.
Accelerates smoothly.
Operates well at 30, 45, and 60 MPH.
8) On the Lift
No play in the steering
Oil leaks
Suspension
Evidence of collision repair
9) Other
Oil change sticker is current
Inspection sticker is current
License plate is current
Title is available and clean with no liens
Why Pay a Mechanic for a Pre-purchase Inspection?
Although anyone can check most of the items on this checklist, there are many other
potential problems that will only be spotted by a trained, experienced auto technician.
Also, many issues aren’t obvious until you put the car up on a lift. We think it’s worth
investing a little money up front to ensure you’re not wasting thousands. Ask our team
at Superior Autohaus for more details about this checklist and our Pre-purchase
Inspection Service.
Walk-ins WELCOME
or
Call (239)992-0437 to schedule an appointment
