How to inspect a used car: 10 key checks
A practical checklist: documents, mileage, bodywork, engine, diagnostics and test drive – what to check before buying a used car.
10/19/20266 min read
Buying a used car is one of the biggest purchases for many families. Listing photos usually show only the good side, so it pays to check the car thoroughly before handing over the money. Here are 10 things we check on every inspection.
1. Documents and history
Start with the paperwork. Compare the VIN on the registration document with the one on the body and under the windscreen. Ask for the service book, repair invoices and roadworthiness test history. If the seller "has nothing", be careful.
2. Mileage
Check that the odometer matches the inspection records and service documents. Look at wear on the steering wheel, gear lever and seats – if a car with "120,000 km" has a steering wheel worn shiny, something doesn't add up.
3. Bodywork and paint
Walk around the car in daylight. Gaps between doors, wings and bonnet should be even. A different paint shade or "orange peel" surface points to a repainted panel. A paint thickness gauge shows this most accurately.
4. Rust
Look at the sills, wheel arches, door bottoms and underbody. Surface rust is often cheap to fix, but rotten structural parts are a serious problem.
5. Engine bay
Look for oil or coolant leaks and check belts and hoses. An engine that has been washed too clean can sometimes hide leaks.
6. Cold start
If possible, start the engine from cold. That's when you best hear a rattling timing chain, hard starting or unusual exhaust smoke.
7. Computer diagnostics
Plugging in diagnostic equipment shows whether any fault codes are stored in the control units. Codes are sometimes cleared right before a sale, but an experienced specialist often notices this.
8. Suspension and brakes
Lift the car or at least look underneath: leaking shock absorbers, worn bushes, discs and pads. These repairs quickly add up to hundreds of euros.
9. Interior and equipment
Test every switch, the air conditioning, windows and heating. A damp carpet or musty smell can mean a leak – or even a flood-damaged car.
10. Test drive
Drive for at least 15–20 minutes at different speeds. Listen for suspension noises, watch how the gearbox shifts and whether the car pulls to one side when braking.
The bottom line
Don't rush and don't be pressured by "another buyer coming tomorrow". An hour of careful checking can save you thousands of euros.
Want a specialist to check the car for you? Autikra.lt offers pre-purchase inspections from €100. See prices or get in touch to book a time.
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