Exterior Check
Body condition (dents, scratches, rust)
Paint condition
Doors operation (open, close, lock)
Windows (cracks, chips, operation)
Windshield (cracks, chips)
Wipers (condition, operation)
Lights (headlights, taillights, turn signals, brake lights)
Mirrors (condition, adjustment)
Tires (tread depth, wear pattern, pressure)
Wheels (damage, lug nuts)
Exhaust system (visible damage, leaks)
Undercarriage (visible damage, leaks)
Under Hood
Engine oil (level, condition)
Coolant (level, condition)
Brake fluid (level, condition)
Power steering fluid (level, condition)
Transmission fluid (level, condition)
Battery (condition, connections)
Belts (condition, tension)
Hoses (condition, leaks)
Air filter (condition)
Radiator (condition, leaks)
Engine mounts (condition)
Visible wiring (condition)
Brakes
Front brake pads (thickness)
Rear brake pads/shoes (thickness)
Brake rotors/drums (condition)
Parking brake (operation)
Brake pedal (feel, travel)
Brake lines and hoses (condition, leaks)
Brake fluid (leaks)
ABS warning light (operation)
Suspension and Steering
Shock absorbers/struts (leaks, damage)
Springs (damage, sag)
Ball joints (wear, play)
Tie rod ends (wear, play)
Control arms (damage, bushings)
Steering rack/box (leaks, play)
Power steering (operation, noise)
Wheel alignment (visual check)
Interior
Seats (condition, operation)
Seat belts (condition, operation)
Dashboard (condition, warning lights)
Steering wheel (condition, play)
Horn (operation)
HVAC system (operation, smell)
Audio system (operation)
Mirrors (adjustment, condition)
Pedals (condition, rubber covers)
Carpets and mats (condition)
Headliner (condition)
Door panels (condition, operation)
Windows (operation, seals)
Electrical Systems
Battery (load test)
Alternator (charging test)
Starter (operation)
Lights (all functioning)
Wipers and washers (operation)
Power windows (operation)
Power locks (operation)
Power seats (if equipped, operation)
Instrument cluster (all gauges working)
Warning lights (check for any on)
Infotainment system (operation)
Backup camera (if equipped, operation)
Test Drive
Engine start (cold start behavior)
Idle quality (smoothness, stability)
Acceleration (power, smoothness)
Transmission (shift quality, responsiveness)
Steering (alignment, pull, vibration)
Braking (effectiveness, pulsation, noise)
Suspension (comfort, noise, bouncing)
Clutch operation (if manual)
Engine performance (power, responsiveness)
Unusual noises (engine, transmission, suspension)
Cruise control operation
Handling (cornering, stability)
Wind noise and rattles
Parking brake effectiveness