50-Point Used Car Inspection Checklist (Printable)

Inspecting a used car properly is one of the most effective ways to avoid costly mistakes.

This 50-point checklist is designed for Australian buyers and can be used for private sales, dealer inspections, or pre-purchase assessments.

It covers the major areas where hidden faults, accident damage or dishonest sellers are most likely to appear.

 

You may print this checklist or use it on your phone when inspecting a vehicle.

 

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1. Identity and Documentation

1. Compare VIN on windscreen with VIN on compliance plate.

2. Compare VIN on chassis or body stamp with the PPSR certificate.

3. Confirm the registration number matches documents.

4. Confirm the seller's name matches registration papers.

5. Check the expiry date of the registration.

6. Review logbooks for consistent dates and odometer readings.

7. Check for missing pages, handwriting changes or inconsistent stamps.

8. Ask for service receipts and compare workshop locations with the seller's story.

9. Check whether the vehicle has recently moved interstate.

10. Confirm the seller can explain the reason for selling and ownership duration.

 

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2. Exterior and Bodywork

11. Inspect the body for colour differences between panels.

12. Look for uneven panel gaps, indicating possible accident repairs.

13. Check for over-spray around doors, windows and wheel arches.

14. Inspect the roof, bonnet and boot for hail damage.

15. Look for rust around door sills, underbody, windscreen corners and boot seams.

16. Check if all doors, bonnet and boot open and close smoothly.

17. Inspect headlights and taillights for fogging, cracks or moisture.

18. Check tyre tread depth and ensure all four tyres match in brand and wear.

19. Inspect wheels for curb rash, cracks or bent rims.

20. Look for uneven tyre wear that could indicate alignment or suspension issues.

 

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3. Engine Bay

21. Inspect the coolant reservoir for clean fluid without oil contamination.

22. Check engine oil level and look for overly dark or watery oil.

23. Inspect for oil leaks around rocker cover, timing cover and sump areas.

24. Check for wet or freshly cleaned engine bays, which may hide leaks.

25. Inspect all belts for cracks or fraying.

26. Look for corrosion on battery terminals.

27. Confirm the radiator fans operate properly.

28. Check for unusual smells, including coolant or burning oil.

 

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4. Underbody and Structural Areas

29. Look under the vehicle for leaks (engine, transmission, differential).

30. Inspect for structural rust or patch repairs.

31. Check the exhaust system for holes or excessive corrosion.

32. Inspect suspension components for damage or leaking shock absorbers.

33. Look for evidence of off-road use or impact damage under the car.

 

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5. Interior and Electronics

34. Inspect the interior for water damage, stains or mould smell.

35. Ensure air-conditioning cools properly.

36. Test all power windows.

37. Test central locking and remote key operation.

38. Ensure the dashboard lights illuminate during start-up and turn off normally.

39. Test the radio, Bluetooth and infotainment system.

40. Check seat belts for smooth extension and retraction.

41. Inspect seats for tears, heavy wear or loose mounts.

42. Ensure all interior lights operate.

 

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6. Test Drive Evaluation

43. Start the engine from cold and listen for rattles, knocks or rough idle.

44. Check for excessive exhaust smoke (blue, white or black).

45. Ensure the car accelerates smoothly without hesitation.

46. Listen for clunks or knocking sounds when turning at low speed.

47. Check for vibrations at 60 to 100 km/h indicating wheel or suspension issues.

48. Confirm the transmission shifts smoothly without slipping.

49. Test brakes for straight stopping and absence of pedal pulsation.

50. After the test drive, inspect the engine bay again for new leaks.

 

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How to Use This Checklist Effectively

 

Always follow this order:

1. PPSR/REVS check (to confirm finance owing, written-off records and stolen status).

2. Review documentation before viewing the car.

3. Inspect the vehicle thoroughly in daylight.

4. Conduct a proper test drive of at least 15 to 20 minutes.

5. Use an extended AUCN Car Report to analyse odometer, rego consistency and valuation.

6. If any major concern appears, walk away. There are always other cars.

 

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AUCN Buyer Advice

 

A well-prepared buyer avoids most private sale risks simply by following a structured process.

Mechanical issues can be repaired, but identity problems, undisclosed write-offs and odometer fraud cannot be undone.

 

AUCN recommended sequence:

 

PPSR Check → AUCN Car Report → Full inspection → Test drive → Review documentation → Negotiate → Transfer rego