The Ultimate DIY Pre-Purchase Car Inspection Checklist (UK)
Buying a used car can be exciting, but it's also one of the biggest purchases you'll make. A shiny exterior can hide a multitude of expensive problems. This comprehensive checklist is designed to give you the confidence to inspect a car like a pro, helping you spot potential issues and avoid buying a lemon. Let's get started.
Section 1: The Exterior Check
Bodywork and Paint
- Walk around the car in good daylight. Look for mismatched paint colours between panels, which can indicate a previous repair.
- Check for rust, especially on wheel arches, sills (below the doors), and the boot floor.
- Look down the sides of the car for ripples or dents.
- Check that all panel gaps (the lines between doors, bonnet, and wings) are even and consistent.
Tyres and Wheels
- Check the tread depth on all tyres – the legal minimum in the UK is 1.6mm.
- Look for uneven tyre wear, which could signal alignment or suspension problems.
- Inspect the alloy wheels for any major cracks or scuffs.
Section 2: The Interior Check
Electrics and Controls
- Test everything that uses electricity: windows, mirrors, radio, air-con, heaters, lights, and wipers.
- Turn the ignition on and check that all dashboard warning lights come on, and then go out once the engine starts. A light that stays on means a fault.
Wear and Tear
- Check the mileage on the odometer. Does the wear on the steering wheel, gear stick, and driver's seat match the displayed mileage?
- Lift the carpets to check for dampness, which could indicate a leak.
Section 3: Under the Bonnet
Fluids and Leaks
- Check the engine oil level using the dipstick. The oil should be a light-brown colour, not black and sludgy.
- Check the coolant level in the expansion tank. It should be a bright colour (often pink, blue, or green) and not murky.
The Single Most Important Engine Check
Here it is: the check that can save you thousands. A car can look perfect, but a hidden head gasket leak can turn your new purchase into a financial nightmare. Symptoms like overheating might not appear on a short test drive.
This is non-negotiable for a DIY inspection. Before you even start the engine for a test drive, use a combustion leak tester. It takes two minutes and gives you a definitive yes/no answer on the engine's health.
Expose Hidden Problems in 2 Minutes.
A blown head gasket is an expensive, engine-out repair. Our LeakLogic kit is a small investment that provides huge peace of mind, allowing you to confidently walk away from a bad car or negotiate a much better price.
Get the LeakLogic Test Kit →Section 4: Paperwork and History
- Check the V5C logbook. Does the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the document match the one on the car (usually at the base of the windscreen)?
- Review the MOT history online using the government's free service. Look for recurring advisories.
- Look through the service history. Has it been serviced regularly at reputable garages?