how used car inspection

Inspecting used cars requires a systematic assessment of the vehicle’s condition to ensure its performance, safety and value. The following is a concise and comprehensive inspection guide, applicable to most situations:

1. Preparatory work

• Research vehicle information: Understand the market price, common problems and recall records of the target model. Information can be obtained through auto forums, official websites or used car platforms (such as China Automobile Dealers Association, Guazi Used Cars, etc.).
• Prepare the necessary tools: Bring a notebook, a mobile phone (for taking photos and recording), a flashlight, a magnet (for checking body repairs), a tire pressure gauge and an OBD-II scanner (for checking engine fault codes).
• View vehicle files: Obtain the vehicle’s VIN code (vehicle identification number), and check the vehicle’s historical records (such as insurance records, maintenance records, accident records). In China, you can check it through platforms such as “Car Appraisal” or “Car Manager”.

1. Visual inspection

• Vehicle appearance:
  Check the car paint for color differences, scratches or touch-up marks. Test the vehicle body with a magnet. Where the magnetic force is weak, there may be putty repairs (accident vehicle marks).
  Check if the gaps in the vehicle body are even and if the doors, hood and trunk are aligned.
  Check if the car window glass is original (original glass has brand logos).
• Tires and suspensions:
  Check whether the tire wear is uniform and whether the tread depth meets the standard (at least 1.6 millimeters).
  Check the production date of the tire (there are four digits on the sidewall, such as “2319” indicating production in the 23rd week of 2019).
  Press the four corners of the vehicle body to check if there are any abnormal noises from the suspension or if the springs are loose.
• Lighting and glass:
  Test whether all the lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals, fog lights, etc.) are functioning properly.
  Check the windshield for any cracks or repair marks.

1. Interior inspection

• Seats and interior:
  Check the wear and tear of the seats, steering wheel and gearshift lever to determine if it is consistent with the mileage.
  Check the interior for any unpleasant odors (a musty smell may indicate water leakage or water immersion).
• Instrument panels and electronic devices:
  Start the vehicle and check if there are any warning lights on the dashboard.
  Test functions such as air conditioning, audio system, power Windows, central locking, and navigation.
  Use the OBD-II scanner to check for any fault codes.
• Odometer:
  Check if the odometer is reasonable. A too low mileage may have been tampered with. Judge based on the vehicle maintenance records and wear and tear conditions.

1. Mechanical and engine inspection

• Engine compartment:
  Check if the engine compartment is clean (if it is too clean, it may cover up oil leakage).
  Check if the oil level is normal and if the engine oil is clear (turbidity may indicate improper maintenance).
  Check whether the coolant, brake fluid and power steering fluid are sufficient and if there is any leakage.
  Check if the battery wiring is corroded and if the production date of the battery is relatively new.
• Engine operation:
  Start the vehicle and listen for any abnormal sounds from the engine (such as knocking or whistling).
  Check if the idle speed is stable and if there is any shaking.
  Check the exhaust pipe. Blue smoke indicates oil burning, while white smoke may suggest a problem with the cooling system.
• Chassis inspection:
  If conditions permit, lift the vehicle to check the chassis for rust, welding marks or oil leakage.
  Check whether the exhaust system is intact and whether there is any damage or modification.

1. Test drive

• Driving experience:
  Check if the steering wheel has deviated, if the brakes are sensitive, and if there are any abnormal noises.
  Test whether the acceleration and deceleration are smooth and whether the gear shifting of the transmission is smooth (manual/automatic).
  Test the suspension system under different road conditions to observe if there are any abnormal vibrations or noises.
• Brakes and clutches:
  The brake pedal should neither be too soft nor too hard, and there should be no obvious shaking when braking.
  For manual transmission vehicles, it is necessary to check whether the clutch engagement point is normal and whether it is slipping.

1. Document and legal review

• Vehicle documents:
  Check whether the vehicle registration certificate, registration certificate, purchase invoice and compulsory traffic insurance documents are complete.
  Confirm whether the vehicle is in a mortgaged or seized state (which can be checked through the vehicle management office).
  Check whether the VIN code is consistent with the document.
• Maintenance Record:
  Check the regular maintenance records to confirm whether maintenance is carried out on time.
  Check for any major maintenance or accident records.
• Transfer procedures:
  Confirm whether the seller is the car owner himself and whether he is qualified for the transfer of ownership.
  Understand local transfer policies (such as emission standard restrictions).

1. Professional testing
   If you are not familiar with vehicle inspection, it is recommended that you hire a third-party inspection agency (such as one certified by the China Automobile Maintenance Association) for a comprehensive inspection. They will use professional equipment to inspect the condition of the vehicle, including accident traces, water immersion and mechanical performance.
   The testing fee is usually between 300 and 1,000 RMB, depending on the region and the depth of service.
2. Negotiation and decision-making

• Assess the vehicle condition: Based on the inspection results, determine whether the vehicle is worth purchasing. Vehicles involved in major accidents, those submerged in water, or those with tampered odometers should be avoided.
• Price negotiation: Based on market conditions and the condition of the vehicle, negotiate a reasonable price. Refer to the prices of the same model of car on platforms such as Guazi Used Cars and Uxin Used Cars.
• Sign the contract: Ensure that the transaction contract clearly stipulates the vehicle condition, price and transfer responsibility to avoid subsequent disputes.
  Hint
• Avoid impulse buying: Don’t be lured by low prices. Check carefully before making a decision.
• Bring a professional: If possible, bring a friend who knows about cars or a professional technician along.
• Time selection: It’s clearer to inspect the exterior during the day. During test drives, choose from a variety of road conditions.
  If you need further assistance, such as looking up common questions about a specific vehicle model or recommending a testing agency, please provide more details!