What to Look for When Buying a Used Car: The Complete Inspection Checklist

In Canada, buying used cars is one of the smartest ways to get value for money. Compared to brand new vehicles, the used car market offers big savings.

But it also comes with higher risks — if you’re not careful, you might end up paying for a problem car. To help you avoid costly mistakes, we’ve created a step-by-step used car inspection checklist. Whether you’re buying from a dealership or a private seller, following these steps will ensure you get a reliable vehicle at a fair used car valuation.

Dealerships vs. Private Sellers

Dealerships: Reputable dealerships know that brand loyalty matters. They want to maintain strong customer relationships and protect their reputation. Many also offer Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, which come with extra assurance through professional detailing, servicing, and maintenance.
Private sellers: Often make one-time sales and don’t worry about customer loyalty or online reviews. Transparency varies, so you’ll need to be extra cautious.

That’s why it’s critical to know what to check when you go see a car — especially if you’re dealing with a private seller.

Used Car Inspection Checklist: 9 Key Steps

1. Check the Year and Mileage

On average, a car should run about 20,000 km per year. Anything significantly higher means the vehicle has been heavily used and should be priced lower in its used car valuation. Use resources like Canadian Black Book to verify market value.

2. Review the Vehicle History Report

Ask the seller for a history report, or download one from CARFAX Canada. This will show past accidents or major repairs. Just remember, the report might not tell the full story.

3. Inspect the Paint and Look for Rust

Compare body panels for color consistency. Mismatched paint could mean the car has been in an accident.
Look for rust on the body, under the hood, and undercarriage. Light rust may be cosmetic, but frame rust is a serious red flag for safety and longevity.

4. Examine Tire Wear

Use the Toonie Tire Test to check tread depth. Worn tires mean you’ll need to replace them soon. Uneven wear may also point to alignment issues.

5. Check the Undercarriage and Ground

While inspecting the tires, look underneath the vehicle for oil leaks or fluid stains. Leak repairs can be expensive, so don’t overlook this step.

6. Perform Under-the-Hood Checks

Look for rust or corrosion under the hood.
Inspect belts for wear or fraying.
Check transmission fluid (should be clear red, not burnt).
Check oil levels and condition. Dark or muddy oil indicates neglect.
Check brake fluid — low levels may mean worn brakes.
Check antifreeze for clarity and contamination.
Inspect the battery for corrosion or damage.

Each of these checks can affect the vehicle’s valuation and long-term reliability.

7. Test All Lights

Ensure headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and interior lights are fully functional.

8. Listen During the Test Drive

Unusual tapping or rattling noises are cause for concern. Test the car on different road surfaces and try parking, reversing, and tight maneuvers to make sure handling feels right for you.

9. Get a Professional Inspection

If you’re not confident, bring along a knowledgeable friend or hire a mechanic. Any issues the mechanic finds can be used for negotiation. Paying a small inspection fee is worth it compared to buying a car full of hidden problems.

Get Pre-Approved with Ease

Whether you’re shopping for a sedan, SUV, or truck, Canadians can now apply online and get pre-approved in under 3 minutes. With any credit accepted, you’ll know exactly what you can afford before you buy.

Final Thoughts

Buying used cars is a cost-effective choice, but you need to do your homework. From mileage and condition to used car valuation, every detail matters. By following these 9 steps, you’ll minimize risk and increase your chances of driving home a reliable, fairly priced vehicle.

👉 At YST Auto Sales, we provide transparent listings and professional used car valuation services to help you buy and sell with confidence.

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