Used Car Inspection Checklist: What to Check Before You Buy

Buying a used car is one of the biggest purchases most people make, yet many buyers spend less time inspecting their potential purchase than they do choosing a holiday. A careful inspection — or better still, an independent professional inspection — can identify faults that would cost thousands to repair.

Exterior Check

• Look along the length of each panel in raking light — ripples, waves, or colour mismatches indicate previous accident damage
• Check all panel gaps are even — uneven gaps suggest bodywork repairs or a poorly aligned vehicle
• Inspect the wheel arches and sills for rust — common on older UK vehicles
• Check that all windows and sunroof seals are intact — water ingress causes mould and electrical problems
• Inspect all tyres for tread depth, age (check the sidewall date code), and any damage

Under the Bonnet

• Check the oil level and condition — dark, sludgy oil suggests poor maintenance
• Check coolant level and colour — rust-coloured coolant indicates corrosion inside the cooling system
• Look for oil leaks around gaskets and hoses
• Check the HGF (head gasket failure) indicators: mayonnaise under the oil cap, white emulsion in the coolant reservoir
• Inspect hoses and belts for cracking or perishing

Interior Check

• Check all electrics: windows, mirrors, heated seats, infotainment, air conditioning
• Check all warning lights go out after startup
• Test all seatbelts retract and lock correctly
• Smell the interior — musty smell can indicate flood damage
• Check service history documents match the vehicle's mileage

Test Drive

• Listen for knocking, grinding, or rattling from engine, gearbox, or suspension
• Test brakes — car should stop in a straight line without pulling to one side
• Check gear changes are smooth (manual and automatic)
• Test the steering — no excessive play, wandering, or vibration
• Check the clutch bites at the right point (if manual)

Professional Inspection

Even the most experienced buyer can miss hidden faults. An independent pre-purchase inspection by PKA Automotive gives you a professional mechanical assessment and a written report. It's particularly valuable for older or higher-mileage vehicles, or when buying privately where there's no consumer protection.