Inspect the deal in the right order
Documents and VIN
Match the VIN across the listing, dashboard, door label, title, and available history records.
Ownership and title
Confirm the seller is authorized to sell and understand liens, title brands, and local transfer requirements.
Exterior and tires
Look for uneven gaps, paint differences, glass dates, tire wear, leaks, rust, and signs of previous repair.
Interior and controls
Test warning lights, electronics, climate controls, seat belts, locks, windows, and signs of water intrusion.
Test drive and inspection
Listen, feel, and observe, then arrange an independent inspection before committing.
Total cost and payment
Include taxes, registration, repairs, insurance, financing, and written deposit terms.
A good car should survive a slow buying process
Pressure to skip documents, research, a test drive, or inspection is itself useful information about the deal.
Estimate the true initial cost before decidingOptional product to compare
VIN Checkup is one optional report source to use before the visit when you already have a specific vehicle's VIN.
Review available VIN report detailsAffiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission if you buy through this link, at no extra cost to you.