The Used Car Buying Checklist: 12 Things to Verify Before You Pay

The best used-car buyers do their homework before they ever turn the key. Work through this checklist, the records first, then the car.

Check the records

1. Authenticate the VIN. Confirm it matches across the windshield, door jamb and title.
2. Open recalls. Are there unrepaired safety campaigns? Get them fixed free at a dealer.
3. Owner complaints. Which systems do owners report failing most on this model?
4. Title status. Is the title clean, or branded salvage, rebuilt, flood or lemon?
5. Odometer. Does the mileage rise consistently across past records and the title?
6. Crash-test ratings. How well does this model protect occupants?

Inspect the car

7. Cold start. Listen for rattles, knocks or heavy smoke on first start.
8. Panel gaps & paint. Uneven gaps or mismatched paint suggest prior accident repair.
9. Tires. Uneven wear points to alignment or suspension problems.
10. Fluids. Check oil, coolant and transmission fluid for color and level.
11. Electronics. Test every window, light, camera and warning lamp.
12. Test drive. Brake, accelerate and corner; feel for pulling, shudder or slipping.

Then get a mechanic

A pre-purchase inspection by an independent mechanic is the single best money you can spend. Bring your Carchieve report with you, it tells the mechanic exactly which systems this model is known to fail, so they know where to look first.