Step 1: Run the VIN
Critical VIN Checks Before Viewing
History report: CarFax, AutoCheck, or both (different databases)
Look for red flags: Accidents, flood damage, lemon buybacks, salvage/rebuilt titles
Check recalls: NHTSA.gov - verify all recalls were completed
Odometer verification: Confirm mileage matches title and service records
Title Brand Red Flags
🚨 Avoid These Titles
- • Flood/Water damage
- • Salvage/Total loss
- • Lemon buyback
- • Fire damage
- • Hail damage (severe)
⚠️ Proceed with Caution
- • Rebuilt/Reconstructed
- • Prior taxi/rental
- • Multiple accidents
- • Theft recovery
- • Repossession history
Step 2: Inspect in daylight
Visual Inspection Checklist
Exterior
- □ Panel gaps uniform
- □ Paint color matches
- □ No rust or corrosion
- □ Tires wear evenly
- □ All lights work
- □ Glass has no cracks
Interior
- □ Seats show normal wear
- □ Electronics function
- □ AC/heat work
- □ No warning lights
- □ All buttons/switches work
- □ Clean, no odors
Under Hood
- □ Clean engine bay
- □ No oil leaks
- □ Belts/hoses intact
- □ Fluid levels good
- □ Battery terminals clean
- □ No unusual noises
Cold Start Test
Why it matters: Cold engines reveal problems that warm engines hide
Listen for: Knocking, irregular idle, excessive exhaust smoke
Watch for: Check engine light, rough idling, slow cranking
Timing: First visit should be when car hasn't run for 2+ hours
Step 3: Pre-purchase inspection (PPI)
Why PPI is Non-Negotiable
Cost: $150-300 for comprehensive inspection
Savings: Often prevents $2,000-5,000+ in surprise repairs
Who: Independent mechanic familiar with the make/model
When: After initial inspection, before finalizing purchase
Red flag: If seller refuses PPI, walk away immediately
PPI Focus Areas
Major Systems
- • Engine compression test
- • Transmission fluid/operation
- • Brake pads, rotors, fluid
- • Suspension components
- • Exhaust system integrity
Upcoming Maintenance
- • Timing belt/chain condition
- • Coolant system
- • Air/cabin filters
- • Spark plugs/coils
- • Battery age/condition
Step 4: Test drive route
Comprehensive Test Drive Plan
City Driving (15 minutes)
- • Low-speed turns (listen for CV joint clicks)
- • Stop-and-go traffic (transmission shifts)
- • Parking lot maneuvers (power steering)
- • Hard braking from 30 mph (straight stop, no pulling)
Highway Driving (15 minutes)
- • 60+ mph sustained speed
- • Steering wheel vibration check
- • Lane changes (tracking, alignment)
- • Engine power under load (passing acceleration)
Parking Lot Tests (10 minutes)
- • Tight turning radius
- • Reverse operation
- • Electronic systems (radio, GPS, etc.)
- • Final engine idle check
Step 5: Price research and comps
Market Value Research
Pricing Sources
- • Kelley Blue Book (KBB)
- • Edmunds True Market Value
- • AutoTrader market listings
- • Cars.com price analysis
- • Carvana/CarMax quotes
Value Adjustments
- • Mileage above/below average
- • Condition (excellent/good/fair)
- • Regional price differences
- • Seasonal demand fluctuations
- • Recent maintenance records
Negotiation Starting Points
Private party: Start 10-15% below asking price
Dealer: Research trade-in value, expect 15-25% markup
High-mileage vehicles: Bigger discount justified
Needed repairs: Subtract estimated repair costs from offer
Step 6: Paperwork essentials
Private Party Documents
Required from Seller
- □ Clear title (name matches ID)
- □ Lien release (if applicable)
- □ Maintenance records
- □ Keys and manuals
- □ Warranty info (if remaining)
Documents You Provide
- □ Bill of sale (both copies)
- □ Payment (cashier's check)
- □ Insurance proof
- □ Registration application
- □ Driver's license copy
Dealer Purchase Verification
Price confirmation: Final price matches negotiated amount
Fee transparency: All fees disclosed (doc, prep, advertising)
Add-on removal: Unwanted warranties/products removed
Financing terms: APR and payment match your pre-approval or their quote
Common used car red flags
Seller won't allow PPI or test drive
Any seller who refuses inspection or limits test drive is hiding problems. Walk away immediately.
No maintenance records available
Cars without service history are risky bets. Assume major services are due and factor costs into your offer.
Price significantly below market
If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Hidden damage, liens, or scams are common with underpriced cars.
Pressure to buy immediately
"Another buyer is coming" or "price expires today" are classic pressure tactics. Take your time to make the right decision.
Mileage and age guidelines
What's High Mileage in 2024?
| Vehicle Age | Average Miles | High Mileage | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-2 years | 12,000-24,000 | 30,000+ | Still under warranty |
| 3-5 years | 36,000-60,000 | 75,000+ | Major services due |
| 6-8 years | 72,000-96,000 | 120,000+ | Transmission, timing belt |
| 9+ years | 108,000+ | 150,000+ | Buy based on condition |
Modern cars can run 200,000+ miles with proper maintenance. Focus on service history over odometer reading.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a PPI worth it for cars under $10,000?
Yes, especially for older cars. A $200 inspection can reveal $3,000+ in hidden problems. The cheaper the car, the more important the inspection becomes.
What mileage is "too high" for modern cars?
There's no magic number. A well-maintained 150,000-mile car can be better than a neglected 80,000-mile car. Focus on service records and overall condition.
How do I spot a flood car?
Musty odors, water stains, rust in unusual places, and electrical issues are common signs. Always check the VIN for flood/water damage history.
Can I return a used car after purchase?
Usually no. Most used car sales are "as-is" with no return policy. This is why thorough inspection before purchase is critical—you can't undo the deal later.