Before You Buy: Used-Car Inspection Guide & Printable Checklist

Buying a used car? Know what to check before you commit.

Created by Carrier Family Automotive and built around a master automotive technician's inspection process with 20+ years of experience, this practical guide helps everyday buyers spot concerns, ask better questions, and plan for potential repair costs.

Inside, you'll find checks for:

- Paint differences, panel gaps, and signs of previous body repairs

- Tire tread, damage, wear patterns, and DOT date codes

- Starting performance, warning lights, and engine sounds

- Fluid levels, unusual smells, and smoke

- Diagnostic codes and emissions readiness monitors

- Interior controls, heating, air conditioning, and lights

- Transmission operation, steering, braking, and suspension during a test drive

- Visible leaks, exhaust condition, rust, and paperwork

- Major red flags that may justify pausing or walking away

Includes a printable buyer checklist with space for tire readings, diagnostic codes, concerns, and estimated repair costs.

What you receive: One 6-page downloadable PDF, including the cover, inspection guide, and printable checklist. No physical item is shipped.

Designed for buyers considering gasoline or diesel passenger vehicles. Hybrid and electric systems require additional specialist checks.

This guide supports a first look and does not replace an independent professional pre-purchase inspection or guarantee a vehicle's condition.

For personal use. Redistribution, resale, or public posting requires permission from Carrier Family Automotive LLC.