Exterior

  1. Carfax
  2. Warranties
  3. Additional fees on sticker price
  4. Windshield and wipers
  5. Rust and water spots underneath and joints and motor
  6. Uneven wear?
    1. Spare tire
  7. Side view of body for straightness
  8. Should be dry, black/gray and no smoke

Engine

  1. Fluids, radiator
  2. Belts and hoses
  3. Battery life
  4. Turn on
  5. Start response
  6. Listen to sound
  7. Tail pipe: blue gray (oil), white gray (headgasket), black (rich fuel)
  8. Check lights and blinkers

Inside

  1. Gauges
  2. Buttons, knobs, latches, windows, doors
  3. Seat covers, floor, dash
  4. Test drive
    1. Steering
    2. Brakes
    3. Response
    4. Smoothness of ride