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:

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 tire 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 attachment.

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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