Inspecting A Used Car Exterior Checklist (90 Points)

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Mobile Vehicle Inspections Exterior Checklist Guide

This detailed list covers various aspects of the exterior inspection, providing a thorough examination of the vehicle’s exterior condition. Adjustments can be made based on specific vehicle types and models.
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Exterior Inspection

Area
Checks
Completed
Body Condition
Check for dents, scratches, or signs of accidents. Inspect for rust or corrosion.
Paint Quality
Examine for consistency and color match. Look for overspray or signs of repainting.
Tires
Measure tread depth with a gauge. Inspect for even wear and proper inflation. Check the spare tyre for condition.
Wheels
Inspect rims for damage. Verify lug nut tightness.
Lights and Lenses
Test headlights, taillights, turn signals, and brake lights. Check for cracks or damage to lenses.
Mirrors
Adjust and inspect side mirrors. Check for cracks or damage.
Windshield and Wipers
Inspect for chips or cracks. Test wipers for proper function.
Door Handles and Locks
Test all door handles for smooth operation. Check central and individual door lock functions.
Windows
Test power windows for smooth operation. Check for any chips or cracks in the windows.
Roof and Sunroof
Inspect for signs of damage or leaks. Test sunroof operation if applicable.
Exterior Trim
Check for loose or missing trim pieces. Inspect for fading or discoloration.
Antenna
Check for damage or looseness.
License Plate
Ensure it is securely mounted.
Fuel Door
Test fuel door release and hinge condition.
Undercarriage
Inspect for rust, damage, or leaks.
Wheel Wells
Check for debris or signs of damage.
Tow Hooks and Tie-Downs
Ensure they are securely attached.
Mud Flaps
Verify they are present and securely attached.
Grille
Inspect for damage or missing pieces.
Badges and Emblems
Ensure all badges are present and secure.
Fuel Cap
Check for a tight seal.
Hood and Trunk
Inspect hinges and latches for proper operation.
Weather Stripping
Check for wear or damage.
Windshield Washer Nozzles
Test for proper spray pattern.
Body Seams
Inspect for uniform gaps.
Tire Well
Check for debris or signs of water entry.
VIN Plate
Ensure it matches the VIN on the vehicle.
Reflectors
Verify presence and condition.
Headlight Alignment
Check for proper alignment.
Emergency Exit
Test emergency exit if applicable.
Convertible Top
Inspect for wear or leaks if applicable.
Fender Liners
Check for damage or loose parts.
Bumpers
Inspect for damage or misalignment.
Rock Chips
Examine front areas for rock chips.
Trailer Hitch
Check for proper installation and condition.
Splash Guards
Verify presence and condition.
Exterior Accessories
Inspect for aftermarket additions.
Hitch Wiring
Check for proper wiring and condition.
Rear View Camera
Test for clear image display.
Exterior Lights
Check all exterior lights for proper operation.
Brake Lights on Spoiler
Inspect if applicable.
Windshield Wiper Arms
Check for proper tension.
Windshield Washer Reservoir
Verify fluid level.
Wiper Blades
Ensure they are in good condition.
Fog Lights
Test for proper operation.
Side Marker Lights
Check for proper illumination.
Body Panel Alignment
Inspect for uniform gaps and alignment.
Wheel Locks
Verify presence and key.
Convertible Top Operation
Test if applicable.
Remote Entry
Test remote key fob functions.
Door Seals
Check for wear or damage.
Rocker Panels
Inspect for rust or damage.
Exterior Sensors
Test parking sensors if applicable.
Exterior Wiring
Inspect for exposed or damaged wiring.
Convertible Top Seals
Check for leaks if applicable.
Gas Struts
Inspect hood and trunk struts.
Power Liftgate
Test if applicable.
Exterior Cameras
Test camera functions if applicable.
Running Boards
Check for damage or loose parts.
Splash Guards
Verify proper installation and condition.
Trunk Trim
Inspect for loose or damaged trim.
Trunk Latch
Test for proper operation.
License Plate Lights
Check for proper illumination.
Trunk Hinges
Inspect for proper operation.
Roof Rack
Verify proper installation and condition.
Fender Flares
Check for damage or loose parts.
Wheel Center Caps
Verify proper attachment.
Parking Brake
Test parking brake functionality.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Verify TPMS sensor functionality.
Rear Spoiler
Inspect for proper installation and condition.
Exterior Decals and Stickers
Check for fading or peeling.
Cab Steps
Inspect for damage or loose parts.
Window Tint
Check for legality and condition.
Bug Deflector
Verify proper installation and condition.
Trailer Mirrors
Test if applicable.
Body Molding
Check for secure attachments.
Tailgate
Test for proper operation.
Tailgate Seal
Inspect for wear or damage.
Tailgate Hinges
Check for proper operation.
Tailgate Cables
Inspect for wear or damage.
Tailgate Lock
Test for proper operation.
Tailgate Cap
Inspect for damage or loose parts.
Tailgate Steps
Test if applicable.
Tailgate Assist
Check for proper function.
Tailgate Handle
Inspect for wear or damage.
Tailgate Lights
Check for proper illumination.
Tailgate Camera
Test camera functions if applicable.
Tailgate Wiring
Inspect for exposed or damaged wiring.
Tailgate Latch
Test for proper operation.
Tailgate Trim
Inspect for loose or damaged trim.

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