Pre-purchase inspection checklist

Print this (it's print-friendly) and bring it to any 1990–2015 car. Then check the model page for car-specific items.

  1. Paperwork: clean vs. rebuilt/salvage title, VIN matches title and car, stolen-recovery history, open recalls (NHTSA VIN lookup).
  2. Records: the model's "big jobs" documented with invoices and dates (see each model page).
  3. Cold start: arrive before the engine is warm. Listen for rattles, knocks, smoke.
  4. Scan: OBD-II scan for stored and pending codes; check readiness monitors (recently cleared codes are a flag).
  5. Fluids: oil level and condition; coolant level and color; consider an oil analysis.
  6. Leaks: under the car after the drive: oil, coolant, transmission, power steering.
  7. Body & rust: rockers, floors, wheel wells, frame rails, trunk floor; paint mismatch, overspray, panel gaps.
  8. Suspension & tires: uneven tire wear, clunks, bushings; mismatched tires.
  9. Drive: clutch engagement and slip, synchros in every gear, brakes pull/pulse, temperatures stable.
  10. Modifications: list them; tuned cars need extra scrutiny and records.
  11. Specialist PPI: pay a marque specialist. It's the best money you'll spend.