Run a free listing report, then a 10-point quick check you can do in about 15 minutes. Mark each item Pass, Not sure or Fail. Your answers stay on this device.
Step 1: Check the listing
Paste the seller's ad link and the VIN. We read the ad, look for a free history report, check the photos, decode the VIN and pull NHTSA recalls.
Step 2: Free quick check
Known trouble spots for this model
Enter the year, make and model above to see known trouble spots from Ask CarFix.
Documents & VIN
Match the VIN
The VIN on the dash, door sticker and title should all match.
Title status
Look for words like salvage, rebuilt or lien on the title.
Exterior & rust
Panel gaps & paint
Uneven gaps or mismatched paint can mean past body work.
Tires
Even wear across each tire; uneven wear can point to alignment issues.
Engine bay
Oil check
Pull the dipstick: oil should be brown to black, not milky or gritty.
Leaks
Look for wet, oily spots under the hood and on the ground under the car.
Interior & electronics
Warning lights
All dash lights should come on at key-on, then go off once running.
A/C & heat
Both should blow strong and change temperature quickly.
Test drive
Cold start
Ask the seller not to warm it up; listen for rough idle or rattles.
Brakes
The car should stop straight without pulling, grinding or shaking.
Something looks off? Book a pro inspection
You marked item(s) as Not sure or Fail. A professional pre-purchase inspection can confirm what's wrong before you buy.