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Used Car Buying Guide and Checklist

It’s important to keep in mind that when buying a used car, research is definitely key. If you feel like you aren’t getting the best deal possible or you feel rushed while inspecting your potential used car, it’s okay to say no thank you and walk away.

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Use this list
Item
Item
Selection
Category
Check
Notes
  • General

  • 1
    Year
  • 2
    Make
  • 3
    Model (any options?)
  • 4
    Asking Price/Phone#
  • 5
    Trade in Value
  • 6
    Scratches
  • 7
    Dents
  • 8
    Windshield (chips or cracks?)
  • 9
    Headlights (foggy?)
  • 10
    Inspection Sticker Current?
  • 11
    Rusty Brake rotors?
  • 12
    Tire Tread
  • 13
    All 4 tires/wheels the same?
  • 14
    Wheel damage?
  • 15
    Rips on seats
  • 16
    Car Options (Navi, sunroof, etc)
  • 17
    Headliner (saggy?)
  • 18
    Automatic/Manual
  • 19
    Steering wheel (worn?)
  • 20
    Leaks (near engine and rear diff)
  • 21
    Rust (exhaust, frame, body, etc)
  • 22
    Suspension (tie rods, ball joints, shocks, axle, etc)
  • 23
    Frame Damage (from collision)
  • Engine

  • 24
    Hood pops open easily?
  • 25
    Frame (straight, no kinks)
  • 26
    Inspect for leaks (oil, coolant, tranny)
  • 27
    Oil level and oil (no metal, not frothy)
  • 28
    Check Coolant (make sure it’s not hot when you check)
  • 29
    Hood support/struts work?
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This list was created to help UK users choose the best used car to suit their needs, and easily find options available in their area. 

I've added the estimated road tax and prices based on the options available, as well as the video snippets where you can see what I think of each option - and what to look for when you are browsing to buy each specific car.

When buying a used car, consider the MPG and price, but don't forget to factor in the road tax, insurance, whether or not it has been in an accident, as well as your own personal needs. 

An important disclaimer: Do your proper research beyond just AutoTrader, and do a history check. I always recommend using V-Check for this as their check is far more comprehensive than the Experian / HPI checks that you see on most websites.

Follow me on other social networks for more car-related content to help you make better buying decisions!

Creator: Jim Starling - "DefinitelyNotAGuru"

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