1. Exterior Inspection
• Body Panels and Paint:
• Inspect each panel for consistency in color and texture, checking for signs of repainting, overspray, or uneven gaps between panels.
• Look for minor scratches, dents, corrosion, bubbling paint (indicating rust beneath), and any previous repair work.
• Frame and Structure:
• Examine the undercarriage, subframe, and mounting points for signs of bending, cracking, rust, or repairs, especially near impact areas.
• Check for any welding or structural irregularities, as these may indicate previous collision damage.
• Lights:
• Inspect headlamps, taillights, turn signals, fog lights, and brake lights for operation, alignment, and signs of moisture or cracking in lenses.
• Test brightness and response of lights to ensure they meet safety standards.
• Glass and Mirrors:
• Look for chips, cracks, or scratches on the windshield, side and rear windows, and mirrors.
• Ensure all power mirrors adjust properly and check for any loose or damaged housings.
• Windshield Wipers and Washer System:
• Test the operation and wear of wiper blades, ensuring even contact and movement.
• Check washer fluid spray pattern and pressure; confirm washer reservoir is intact with no leaks.
2. Interior Inspection
• Seats and Upholstery:
• Inspect seats for comfort, wear, stains, and tearing. Check for smooth reclining, height adjustment, and power adjustments (if applicable).
• Evaluate seat belts for fraying, proper locking, and retracting functions.
• Dashboard and Electronics:
• Test each dashboard light, gauge, and control for correct functionality.
• Look for any warning lights (e.g., Check Engine, ABS) and scan for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if lights are present.
• Air Conditioning and Heating:
• Verify A/C system blows cold air and heating system warms adequately; test different blower speeds and airflow directions.
• Check for unusual smells or noises that could indicate refrigerant leaks or other system issues.
• Infotainment System:
• Test all multimedia functions, including radio, CD/DVD, Bluetooth, USB, and aux inputs.
• Verify sound quality, speaker operation, and functionality of the navigation system (if included).
• Test any connected apps, satellite radio, or smart device integration.
3. Mechanical and Powertrain Inspection
• Engine:
• Visual Inspection: Check for oil leaks, coolant leaks, and signs of wear or corrosion around the engine bay.
• Fluid Levels and Quality: Inspect levels and quality of engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid.
• Belts and Hoses: Examine for cracks, fraying, or leaks in hoses and belts (e.g., serpentine and timing belts if visible).
• Engine Performance: Listen for any abnormal sounds like knocking, rattling, or squealing during idle and acceleration.
• Compression Test (optional but recommended in premium PPIs): Checks the integrity of engine cylinders.
• Transmission and Drivetrain:
• Transmission: Inspect for fluid leaks, test gear shifts (manual or automatic) for smooth engagement without slipping or clunking sounds.
• Clutch and Gearbox (Manual): Evaluate clutch engagement, any grinding noises, or clutch slipping.
• Driveshafts and Axles: Check for damage, wear on CV joints, and presence of any play or leaks in axle seals.
• Suspension and Steering:
• Shocks and Struts: Assess for wear, leaks, and overall functionality. Perform bounce test to check shock absorbency.
• Bushings and Joints: Inspect ball joints, tie rods, and control arms for wear or cracking in rubber bushings.
• Steering System: Check for smooth turning, unusual sounds, and any “play” in the steering wheel.
• Braking System:
• Brake Pads and Rotors: Measure pad thickness, rotor condition, and look for any scoring or warping on rotors.
• Brake Lines: Check for leaks, wear, or corrosion along the brake lines.
• Brake Fluid: Inspect the condition and level of brake fluid in the reservoir.
• Parking Brake: Test engagement and release function to ensure it holds the vehicle on inclines.
4. Tires and Wheels
• Tire Condition:
• Measure tread depth across the tire width to check for even wear, which indicates proper alignment.
• Inspect sidewalls for cracks, bulges, or other damage.
• Confirm all tires are of the same size, type, and brand if specified by the vehicle’s manufacturer.
• Wheel Alignment and Balance:
• Test for any pulling to one side or vibrations during driving, indicating alignment or balance issues.
• Spare Tire and Tools:
• Check for the presence and condition of the spare tire, jack, and any necessary tools for tire replacement.
5. Diagnostic and System Checks
• Onboard Diagnostics:
• Scan the car’s onboard diagnostic system for any hidden error codes or pending issues not visible on the dashboard.
• Safety Systems:
• Test airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, and any other safety features like lane assist, blind-spot monitoring, or parking sensors.
• Battery and Charging System:
• Check the battery’s charge, voltage, and condition, along with the alternator’s performance to ensure charging efficiency.
• Look for any signs of corrosion on battery terminals or connections.
6. Road Test
• Starting:
• Test how the vehicle starts when cold and warm, looking for any hesitation, unusual sounds, or excessive cranking.
• Acceleration and Power Delivery:
• Observe engine response and smoothness of power delivery when accelerating at various speeds.
• Transmission Performance:
• Ensure gear shifts are smooth and that the transmission operates without any slipping, noises, or jerking.
• Braking:
• Test brakes for responsiveness, pedal feel, and any vibrations or pulling to one side during braking.
• Steering and Suspension:
• Evaluate steering responsiveness, alignment, and stability during turns and at various speeds.
• Check for any unusual vibrations, noise, or harshness over bumps.
• Overall Ride Quality:
• Assess comfort level, noise insulation, and whether the ride feels consistent with the vehicle’s class and mileage.
7. Paperwork and History Verification
• Service Records:
• Review maintenance records to confirm regular servicing, noting any major repairs, recalls, or part replacements.
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN):
• Verify VIN against the car’s title and check its history for any major accidents, thefts, or title discrepancies.
• Emissions Compliance:
• Confirm that the vehicle has passed emissions testing if required, and check for any emission-related issues that could hinder registration.
A premium inspection provides peace of mind, giving you the most comprehensive view of the car’s condition, allowing you to make an informed decision.