Vehicle Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Use this Vehicle Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist to thoroughly inspect a used vehicle, ensuring it’s in good condition before finalizing the purchase.

Download as free PDF

Library
Transport & Automotive
Vehicle Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Documentation & History

Exterior, Body & Undercarriage

Engine Bay & Fluids (Car Cold)

Interior, Features & Tires

Test Drive & Performance

Is this sample what you are looking for?
Sign up to use & customise this template, or create your own custom checklist:

Checklist by GoAudits.com – Please note that this checklist is intended as an example. We do not guarantee compliance with the laws applicable to your territory or industry. You should seek professional advice to determine how this checklist should be adapted to your workplace or jurisdiction.

Easy inspection app for your digital checklists

Conduct inspections anytime, anywhere - even offline
Capture photos as proof of compliance or areas needing attention
Instantly generate and share detailed reports after the inspections
Assign & track follow-up tasks, view historical trends on a centralized dashboard

Vehicle Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Use this Vehicle Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist to thoroughly inspect a used vehicle, ensuring it’s in good condition before finalizing the purchase.

1. Can the seller provide the full service history of the vehicle?

2. What is the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and does it match all documentation?

3. Has the car been involved in any accidents, and if so, what repairs were made?

4. How many previous owners has the car had?

5. Are there any known current issues with the vehicle?

6. Is the car still under warranty, and is the warranty transferable?

1. Are the body panels mismatched, or are there uneven gaps that might indicate previous accident damage?

2. Are there any significant dents, scratches, or paint inconsistencies (mismatched colour/texture)?

3. Is there excessive rust or corrosion on the body panels or under the undercarriage?

4. Are the windshield, windows, and light lenses free from chips, cracks, or fogging/moisture?

5. Do all exterior lights (headlights, taillights, brake lights, signals) function correctly?

1. Are there any signs of oil, coolant, or other fluid leaks under the car or around the engine block?

2. Are the belts and hoses free from cracks, wear, or leaks?

3. Are the oil and coolant fluids at appropriate levels and free of contamination?

4. Is the battery free from excessive corrosion on the terminals, and is its age known?

5. When the engine starts cold, are there any unusual knocking, tapping, or hissing noises?

1. Are the upholstery, seats, and carpets free from major rips, tears, or strong, unpleasant Odors (e.g., Mold, smoke)?

2. Are there any persistent engine or system warning lights illuminated on the dashboard?

3. Do the air conditioning and heater systems operate effectively and quickly?

4. Do the power windows, door locks, radio, and navigation systems function correctly?

5. Is the tire tread depth sufficient, and is the wear pattern even across all tires?

1. Does the engine idle smoothly and consistently without fluctuating RPMs?

2. Does the vehicle accelerate strongly without hesitation or lack of power?

3. Do the brakes feel firm and responsive, and does the car remain straight when braking?

4. For automatic transmissions, are the shifts smooth and unnoticeable?

5. Does the car steer easily and accurately without drifting or pulling to one side (alignment)?

6. Does the ride feel comfortable, without excessive bouncing or noise over bumps (suspension)?

7. Does the exhaust emit blue (oil burning), white (coolant leak), or black (fuel combustion) smoke?