Purchasing a used car can be an exciting yet daunting experience. Without proper inspection, you might end up with a vehicle that requires costly repairs or, worse, isn't safe to drive. At MontrealAutoPickup, we've helped thousands of clients avoid these pitfalls by conducting thorough pre-purchase inspections. In this guide, we'll share our expert knowledge on what to look for when inspecting a used car.

Why a Pre-Purchase Inspection Is Crucial

A comprehensive inspection can reveal hidden problems that might not be immediately obvious during a test drive or casual look. Even vehicles with clean history reports can have issues that only a trained eye would catch. Spending a little time and potentially money on an inspection can save you thousands in unexpected repairs later.

Exterior Inspection Checklist

The exterior condition of a vehicle can reveal a lot about how it was maintained and whether it has been in accidents.

Body and Paint

• Panel gaps: Uneven spaces between body panels often indicate past collision repairs.
• Paint consistency: Check for color differences or overspray on trim, which may indicate repainting.
• Rust spots: Pay special attention to wheel wells, door bottoms, and rocker panels.
• Dents and scratches: While minor scratches are common, large dents can suggest poor maintenance.

Glass and Lights

• Windshield: Check for cracks, chips, or pitting that could obstruct vision.
• Headlights and taillights: Ensure they work correctly and aren't fogged, cracked, or filled with moisture.
• Signal lights: Verify all turn signals and emergency flashers function properly.

Tires and Wheels

• Tread depth: Use a tread depth gauge or the "penny test" to check for adequate tread (at least 4/32").
• Wear pattern: Uneven wear can indicate alignment problems or worn suspension components.
• Tire age: Check the DOT code on the sidewall; tires older than six years should be replaced regardless of tread depth.
• Wheel condition: Look for bent rims or damage that could affect balance or tire sealing.

Interior Inspection Checklist

The interior condition can reveal how well the previous owner cared for the vehicle and may uncover issues that affect comfort or functionality.

Dashboard and Electronics

• Warning lights: When you start the engine, all warning lights should illuminate briefly then go out.
• Instruments: Verify all gauges work and show appropriate readings.
• Entertainment system: Test the radio, speakers, Bluetooth, and any other features.
• Climate control: Check that heating, air conditioning, and fan speeds work properly.

Seats and Interior Surfaces

• Upholstery: Look for excessive wear, tears, burns, or stains.
• Seat adjustments: Ensure all seat positions and adjustments function correctly.
• Seat belts: Check for fraying and verify that they latch and unlatch properly.
• Headliner: Look for sagging, water stains, or discoloration.

Controls and Features

• Windows and locks: Test all power windows and door locks.
• Mirrors: Check adjustment mechanisms and heating elements if equipped.
• Sunroof/moonroof: If present, ensure it opens, closes, and seals properly.
• Trunk and hood releases: Verify they function correctly.

Under the Hood Inspection

This is where many costly problems can hide, and where having some mechanical knowledge (or a professional's help) becomes particularly valuable.

Fluids

• Engine oil: Check level and condition. Clean oil should be amber to light brown, not black or milky.
• Transmission fluid: Should be pink/red and not smell burnt. Low level or dark color indicates problems.
• Coolant: Should be at the proper level and be either green, orange, or pink depending on the type.
• Brake fluid: Should be clear to amber, not dark brown, and at the proper level.
• Power steering fluid: Check for leaks and proper level.

Engine Components

• Battery: Check for corrosion on terminals and ensure it's securely mounted.
• Belts: Look for cracks, fraying, or glazing. Proper tension is important.
• Hoses: Check for cracks, leaks, or bulges, especially near clamps.
• Air filter: Should be relatively clean and free from excessive dirt or debris.

Undercarriage Inspection

This area is often overlooked but can reveal serious issues that might be expensive to repair.

Suspension and Steering

• Shock absorbers/struts: Check for leaks or damage.
• Springs: Look for cracks or breaks.
• Bushings and ball joints: Excessive play can indicate wear.
• Tie rods and control arms: Verify they're in good condition with no excessive movement.

Exhaust System

• Muffler and pipes: Check for rust holes, damage, or signs of leaks.
• Catalytic converter: Ensure it's present (catalytic converter theft is common) and not damaged.
• Hangers and brackets: Verify they're intact and the exhaust is properly secured.

Leaks

• Oil: Dark stains under the engine or on engine components.
• Coolant: Look for green, orange, or pink stains or residue.
• Transmission fluid: Red or brown stains near the transmission.
• Brake fluid: Check near wheels and brake lines.

Test Drive Assessment

A thorough test drive can reveal problems that aren't apparent when the vehicle is stationary.

Engine Performance

• Cold start: The engine should start promptly without excessive cranking.
• Idle quality: Should be smooth without excessive vibration.
• Acceleration: The vehicle should accelerate smoothly without hesitation or unusual noises.
• Power: Ensure the engine delivers appropriate power for the vehicle type.

Transmission Operation

• Shifting: Automatic transmissions should shift smoothly without jerking or slipping.
• Manual transmissions: Check for smooth clutch engagement and gear changes.
• Unusual noises: Listen for whining, grinding, or clunking noises during shifting.

Braking System

• Pedal feel: Should be firm, not spongy, and not sink to the floor.
• Stopping power: The vehicle should stop straight without pulling to either side.
• Noise: Listen for squealing, grinding, or other unusual sounds when braking.
• ABS operation: If equipped, test on loose gravel or wet surfaces if safe to do so.

Steering and Handling

• Alignment: The vehicle should track straight without pulling.
• Steering wheel: Should center naturally after turns.
• Responsiveness: Steering should be responsive without excessive play.
• Suspension: The vehicle should absorb bumps without excessive bouncing or bottoming out.

Documentation Review

Beyond the physical inspection, reviewing the vehicle's documentation is essential.

Essential Documents

• Vehicle history report: Check for accidents, title problems, odometer discrepancies, and service history.
• Service records: Regular maintenance indicates a well-cared-for vehicle.
• Original owner's manual: Should be present with maintenance schedule.
• Previous repairs: Look for documentation of major repairs or part replacements.

Professional Inspection

While this guide covers the essentials, nothing replaces a professional inspection. At MontrealAutoPickup, our pre-purchase inspection service includes:

• 150+ point detailed inspection by certified technicians
• Computer diagnostic scan to check for stored error codes
• Compression testing to evaluate engine health
• Detailed report with findings and recommendations
• Estimated repair costs for any issues found

Final Thoughts

A thorough pre-purchase inspection is your best defense against buying a problematic used vehicle. While it may seem time-consuming, the process can save you thousands of dollars and countless headaches down the road.

If you're in the Montreal area and considering a used car purchase, let our team of experts at MontrealAutoPickup handle the inspection for you. We'll help ensure your next vehicle is a sound investment rather than a costly mistake.

Remember, when it comes to used cars, what you don't see can hurt your wallet. Be diligent, be thorough, and when in doubt, seek professional assistance.