Evaluate the car before you negotiate
A careful inspection helps you separate visible defects from questions that need professional attention. Work from the outside in, take notes, and keep important claims in writing.
Inspect the outside and cabin
Look for mismatched paint, uneven panel gaps, cracked glass, rust, tire wear, water stains, damaged upholstery, and missing equipment. Turn on every light, switch, screen, and climate control.
Ask for records and identifiers
Compare the vehicle identification number across the car and documents. Ask for service records, title status, recall information, mileage history, and details about accidents or repairs. A seller's answer should match the paperwork.
Separate evidence from assumptions
A quiet engine does not replace an inspection, and a recent repair does not reveal the car's full condition. If the car matters to your decision, arrange an independent inspection and make the purchase subject to the results when possible.
Clear answers before the next step
What should stop an inspection?
Walk away from pressure to skip basic checks, unclear ownership documents, inconsistent identification numbers, or answers that do not match the available records.