For the sake of argument, suppose you have FIVE minutes to check a car. You have to give a yay or nay on whether to put a bid in on the car.
What are the vital things you could and would check to make your decision? What things would you skip, since time is so short?
These are things I’d check in no particular order: (I assumed I’d bring my scan tool, but no time to put on Jack stands or lift).
1.) Exterior: body condition (scratches, dents, rust - surface level or not, body panels - line up evenly, open and close all doors/hood/trunk); look underneath by laying on ground and with flashlight look for any leaks, rust, anything out of ordinary
2.) Tires: all 4 same brand, tread life, any cracks, bulges, scuffing, even wear
3.) Interior: Odor (mold, must, mildew); remove floor mats and check for wet spots, also check trunk same way; seats - all controls work? worn or tears? Driving position good for you?
4.) Lights: turn on/off all lights and make sure they work, including reverse/turn/high beams, inspect light housings (crack/damage/moisture)
5.) Instruments: Turn ignition switch to accessory mode (confirm lights come on then go off), start car (any warning lights?), hook up scan tool and scan all computer systems (any faults, codes, check fuel trim STFT, LTFT, misfires)
6.) Controls: windows go up/down, climate control (AC, heater) and radio work
7.) Roof: headliner and trim for stains/water intrusion, scuffs/damage, sunroof (open and close ok?)
8.) Under hood: feel belts, hoses around radiator, AC, etc for holes, cracks; drive belts for cracks, fraying; radiator - any stains? Color (milky, rusty?); check fluids - oil, transmission, brake and power steering; any visible oil and coolant leaks?
Good idea about the floor mats. Such a simple trick.
I'd pass. I never rush an inspection. Not even hypothetically. {black}:wink:
Strooth. You can flush a lot of money down the toilet by overlooking stuff.
Agreed. I consider the question hypothetical; in real life I take my time and also get on a lift and go on a nice test drive.
I'd stick my finger in the tailpipe and check for oil. Then I'd start it up, make sure it sounds right both cold and warm, listen to the exhaust, drive it through all the gears (including reverse) check the heat and A/C, roll down all of the windows, check all the headlights and use the windshield wipers.
Tailpipe. So simple. Good idea.