Free Printable

DEALER CHECKLIST

Everything to check before signing. Print it and bring it with you.

Exterior Inspection

Walk around the entire vehicle and check for dents, scratches, or mismatched paint
Look for rust on wheel wells, rocker panels, door bottoms, and underneath
Check panel gaps — uneven gaps can indicate prior collision repair
Inspect all four tires for even wear and sufficient tread depth
Check for cracks, chips, or pitting on the windshield and all glass
Test all exterior lights: headlights (low and high), taillights, brake lights, turn signals, hazards
Open and close all doors, the trunk/hatch, and the hood — they should move smoothly
Look under the vehicle for fluid leaks, damage, or rust on the frame
Check that both side mirrors adjust properly and are not cracked
Inspect the exhaust tip — black soot is normal, white or blue residue may signal engine issues

Check all seats for tears, stains, excessive wear, or broken adjustments
Test the infotainment system, Bluetooth, USB ports, and all speakers
Turn on the AC on max cold and the heat on max hot — both should work quickly
Check all gauges and warning lights with the key in the ON position (before starting)
Smell for musty, moldy, or chemical odors that could indicate water damage or cover-ups
Open the trunk and check for a spare tire, jack, and tool kit
Test all power windows, locks, and the sunroof/moonroof if equipped
Check the headliner for sagging, stains, or signs of water intrusion

Check the oil dipstick — oil should be amber or light brown, not black or milky
Inspect the coolant reservoir — fluid should be clean, not rusty or oily
Look at the serpentine belt for cracks, fraying, or glazing
Check the battery terminals for corrosion and check the date sticker on the battery
Look for any visible fluid leaks, wet spots, or residue on the engine and hoses
Check the transmission fluid if accessible — should be pink/red, not brown or burnt-smelling
Inspect hoses and wiring for cracks, brittleness, or rodent damage
Look for any aftermarket modifications that could affect warranty or reliability

Start the engine cold — listen for unusual noises, knocking, or rough idle
Test the brakes at various speeds — no pulling, grinding, pulsating, or soft pedal
Check that the steering is straight and responsive with no vibration or play
Shift through all gears (or let the automatic shift) — transitions should be smooth
Drive over bumps and rough pavement — listen for clunks from the suspension
Get up to highway speed — check for vibrations, wind noise, and stability
Test the parking brake on a slight incline
Turn off the radio and listen — the car will tell you more than the salesperson

Verify the title is clean — no salvage, rebuilt, or flood title brands
Match the VIN on the title to the VIN on the dashboard (driver side, base of windshield) and door jamb
Ask for complete service records and verify regular oil changes and maintenance
Check for open recalls at NHTSA.gov using the VIN
Get a vehicle history report (CARFAX or AutoCheck) and review for accidents, owner count, and title issues
If a dealer, ask for the Buyer's Guide (FTC requires it to be posted on the vehicle)

Research fair market value on KBB, Edmunds, and NADA before visiting
Set your walk-away price before you arrive and stick to it
Ask for an itemized list of all fees — question any "dealer prep", "documentation", or "market adjustment" charges
Get any verbal promises in writing before signing anything
Request a pre-purchase inspection by your own independent mechanic

Before You Sign

Check the vehicle's history, specs, and safety data before you commit. Free and instant.