What to Check Before Buying a Used Car – Complete Checklist

Buying a used car can save you a lot of money — but only if you know what to look for. A second-hand car might seem like a great deal, but without proper inspection, you could end up with hidden problems and costly repairs.

Here’s a complete checklist to help you buy a used car with confidence.

✅ 1. Check the Car’s Condition (Exterior & Interior)

Exterior:

  • Look for signs of rust, dents, scratches, or mismatched paint (which may indicate an accident).

  • Inspect the tyres – uneven wear could mean alignment issues.

  • Examine the lights, windows, and windshield for cracks.

Interior:

  • Check seats, upholstery, dashboard, and flooring for damage or stains.

  • Test all buttons, switches, AC, infotainment, windows, and mirrors.

🔧 2. Inspect Under the Hood

  • Check for oil leaks, corrosion, or cracked belts and hoses.

  • Open the oil cap – milky oil may signal engine issues.

  • Check battery condition, coolant levels, and fluid levels (brake, transmission, windshield).

📑 3. Verify Service History

  • Ask for the complete service record.

  • Regular servicing indicates a well-maintained car.

  • Look for major repairs or part replacements.

🛣️ 4. Take a Test Drive

  • Drive the car on various roads – smooth, rough, highway, turns, inclines.

  • Listen for strange noises or vibrations.

  • Check how smoothly the gear shifts, how the brakes respond, and whether the steering feels stable.

📋 5. Check the Odometer

Ensure these documents are in place and original:

  • RC Book (Registration Certificate)

  • Insurance papers – check if valid and comprehensive

  • PUC Certificate (Pollution Under Control)

  • Service & Maintenance Records

  • Road Tax Receipt

📂 6. Verify Documents

Ensure these documents are in place and original:

  • RC Book (Registration Certificate)

  • Insurance papers – check if valid and comprehensive

  • PUC Certificate (Pollution Under Control)

  • Service & Maintenance Records

  • Road Tax Receipt

  • NOC if being sold by a loan financer

🔍 7. Confirm Chassis & Engine Numbers

  • Cross-check the engine number and chassis number with the RC book.

  • They should match exactly.

🔐 8. Check for Loan/Clearance Status

  • If the car was financed, ensure the loan is fully paid and no dues remain.

  • Get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the lender.

👮 9. RTO & Legal Checks

  • Use the car’s registration number to check:

    • Ownership history

    • Blacklisting

    • Accident or theft reports

    • Road tax dues
      (You can check this on the Parivahan website or mParivahan app.)

💸 10. Final Price & Negotiation

  • Compare the asking price with market value using tools like CarDekho, Cars24, or OLX Autos.

  • Negotiate based on the car’s condition, repairs needed, and service history.

✍️ Final Tip: Get a Mechanic's Opinion

Even if everything looks good, always get the car inspected by a trusted mechanic before finalizing the deal. They can identify hidden issues you might miss.