Inspection Checklist
So, you've found the car of your dreams, you've determined that it isn't stolen, there are no liens against it, and the owner has been truthful about the vehicle's accident history. Now what? You need to inspect the vehicle:
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Check the odometer reading, average is 25,000 kilometres per year. Is the wear of the car consistent with the reading? |
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Evaluate the condition of the tires. Check the trunk for spare tire, jack and wheel wrench. |
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Press down each corner of the vehicle. It should come to rest quickly. If it keeps bouncing, the shock absorbers may need replacing. |
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Inspect the car body for dents, signs of rust, ripples or signs of repainting which might indicate recent body work. |
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If the seats, stereo and tires have been replaced with after market equipment, request receipts for these items from the seller (this will help verify that they are not stolen items). |
If you're still interested in the car, take it for a road test:
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Check that the car starts immediately and idles smoothly once it's warm. |
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Check that the engine gauges and warning lights are working and that the steering doesn't stiffen up and bind. If it has power steering, there should be no squeaks, or moans. |
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Check that the brakes feel firm. If they pull to one side, this may indicate a problem with alignment. |
These final steps are worth considering before you buy:
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have the vehicle inspected by an experienced licensed mechanic who can check the car and let you know if it is mechanically sound, and; |
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have a licensed auto body shop take a look at the car to determine the structural integrity of the vehicle. |
These are the experts that can tell you if the car has been in any accidents or has been rebuilt and, if so, whether it was done properly.
