<aside> <img src="https://prod-files-secure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/f38711d4-66aa-49f9-abea-2322a123578a/dbee1aa8-3e97-4283-b1a4-a0fdfdc488ae/badge-check.png" alt="https://prod-files-secure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/f38711d4-66aa-49f9-abea-2322a123578a/dbee1aa8-3e97-4283-b1a4-a0fdfdc488ae/badge-check.png" width="40px" /> Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) at a reliable mechanic

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<aside> <img src="https://prod-files-secure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/f38711d4-66aa-49f9-abea-2322a123578a/b9a44da0-7c68-4ab7-a769-b6fedf5b9903/octagon-alert_(1).png" alt="https://prod-files-secure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/f38711d4-66aa-49f9-abea-2322a123578a/b9a44da0-7c68-4ab7-a769-b6fedf5b9903/octagon-alert_(1).png" width="40px" /> Walk away if seller objects to PPI

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Manual checks you can do prior to a PPI to weed out used car options:

Exterior

• [ ] Windshield free of cracks
• [ ] Windshield wipers and blades functional
• [ ] Windshield wiper fluid dispenses
• [ ] Body panel colors match
• [ ] Fresh paint job (could conceal rust)
• [ ] Trunk and hood seams aligned
• [ ] Door and fender seams aligned
• [ ] Headlights and turn signals functional
• [ ] Hazard lights functional

Tires

• [ ] Free of cuts, bubbles, cracks
• [ ] Tread worn evenly
• [ ] Penny method check
• [ ] All of the same make
• [ ] Spare tire available and inflated
• [ ] Reputable brand (Michelin, Bridgestone, Goodyear)

Brakes

• [ ] Vehicle does not veer when braking
• [ ] Parking brake freely (dis)engages
• [ ] No grinding noises when braking

Interior

• [ ] All gauges work properly
• [ ] No dashboard warning lights
• [ ] Stereo, heater, A/C work
• [ ] Seats unworn and free of cracks
• [ ] Power windows operate
• [ ] All doors open and close freely
• [ ] Trunk opens and closes freely
• [ ] All seats have functional seat belts
• [ ] All seats adjust properly
• [ ] Trunk and driver door (un)lock with key
• [ ] Heavy scent could conceal something

Engine

• [ ] Engine running is odor free

Steering

• [ ] Vehicle does not drift without prodding
• [ ] Vehicle is stable, no shaking or vibrating

Other

• [ ] Car manual located in glove compartment
• [ ] Accessories include instructions
• [ ] Service and repair records available
• [ ] Owner has title