Whether you're looking to sell your vehicle, or you’re in the process of buying a pre-owned car, you may be wondering how to check the overall condition.
We’re not all mechanics, but when it comes to making a decision to purchase or sell a vehicle, you should be armed with a few pointers to follow.
To get the most accurate sense of a car’s condition, consider the following 4 categories:
Plus, in each section, we offer a condition checklist for you go through when looking at your vehicle or another one!
Here’s where you’ll be “kicking the tires” so to speak. As you work your way around the vehicle, look for any issues regarding the paint and body. Do you notice any significant damage, flaws in the paint, or indications of body work? You should also check out the windshield, lights, and lenses. Look out for scratches, chips, pitting, or cracks! When it comes to the tires, don’t stop where the rubber meets the road. In addition to checking the tire tread, get up close and personal with the wheel itself.
Paint and Body Damage
𝤿 Pristine; no scratches, dents, chips in paint, or rustBodywork Performed
𝤿 No work doneWindshield, lights, or lenses
𝤿 No defects to windshield, lights, or lensesWheels
𝤿 No damage to wheel wellTires
𝤿 Brand New; all matching
𝤿 More than 75% of tread; all matching
𝤿 Between 50% to 75% of tread; all matching
𝤿 50% of tread; all matching
𝤿 Less than 50% of tread; all matching
𝤿 Non-matching tires
𝤿 Tires need replacing
Since this is where you’ll be spending most of your time (if you’re buying a car), be sure to take your time evaluating the interior. In terms of the upholstery and carpet, check for stained, faded, or worn fabrics. Also, pay attention to your nose. Does the car have any odors that indicate mold or that the previous owner smoked in the car?
Looking at the interior also affords the chance to fiddle with the electronics. Make sure the windows, locks, and radio are fully operational. Pre-owned luxury cars may have additional options, such as navigation and reverse cameras. Test each feature accordingly.
Upholstery and carpet
𝤿 Clean; no wear or tear; looks like brand newOdor (smoke/mold...)
𝤿 None; no scentElectronics (windows, locks, radio, NAV, etc...)
𝤿 Flawless; no issues
𝤿 Functional; minor faults
𝤿 Not working; repairs needed
From a mechanical standpoint, depending on your level of expertise, your best bet is to complete a comprehensive test drive. Drive at slow speeds, drive at highway speeds, test the stopping power, and make sure you handle curves. Be aware, if the engine makes any unusual noises or if the transmission isn’t shifting smoothly.
Engine and Transmission
𝤿 Fluids need topping offFrame or Unibody
𝤿 Unaltered with zero workSteering and Suspension
𝤿 No issues with steeringAC and Heater
𝤿 Fully workingBrakes
𝤿 Brand newHigh quality pre-owned vehicles should have a track record of proper paperwork and maintenance. Ask about the title to make sure it’s clean. In other words, avoid rebuilt, salvage, or titles that indicate flood damage.
From a maintenance perspective, check records for regular check-ups based on mileage and manufacturer’s recommendations. You should also grab the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to run a CARFAX report to view the vehicle’s history. If you’re selling, providing this report to buyers is a sign of confidence (which may help to get your asking price).
Car Title
𝤿 Clean title; never deemed a total lossMaintenance and Records
𝤿 Current maintenance record; completeEmissions Test
𝤿 PassedChecking the condition of a car can seem intimidating if you haven’t had a lot of practice buying or selling used cars. Use our helpful checklist from each section to get you started on checking the condition of your vehicle!
Should you have any questions about how we evaluate the cars that we purchase and sell, give us a call at (763) 522-2000.
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