Inspection Checklist For Used Car Shopping

inspection checklist for used car shopping san diego ca

How Are Pre-Owned Vehicles Inspected?

It’s expected practice for dealerships to include a pre-owned vehicle inspection checklist before any car is allowed to be registered to their stock of pre-owned inventory. This is a rigorous, multi-point review of all automotive systems, both major and minor. The inspection includes many precise items that usually vary from car lot to car lot. This ensures each used car or truck is in ideal condition. Many items can get designated into three primary categorical buckets: electrical, mechanical, and service. Review what it takes for a pre-owned vehicle checklist.



Mechanical Inspection

Mechanical Checks

From anti-lock brakes to 7-speed DSG transmissions, updated mechanical car parts control every function of today’s cars and it’s vital that they are working properly to avoid accidents and pricey repair bills. An exhaustive inspection will likely inspect these parts and many others such as engine parts, transmissions, 4WD or 2WD systems, the battery, the exhaust, and cooling systems (hoses and the radiator). If the car is either an EV or a hybrid, the drive battery should only be inspected and serviced by a professional.

Electrical Review

Electric Checks

More than ever, today’s vehicles feature complex electrical systems like computers, digital gauge clusters, touchscreens, navigation systems, and cameras. So it’s imperative that they pass the same uncompromising inspections as the other components. A meticulous inspection of the electronics includes all internal, external, and emergency lighting, as well as digital displays and driving lights. Most critical, however, are diagnostics of any onboard computer and any additional electronically controlled systems, such as the ignition, engine settings, anti-lock braking systems, blind spot detection, and cell phone systems.

Service Check

Vehicle Service History Report

A comprehensive inspection can highlight any current concerns, but it might miss problems that occurred before. To fully appreciate the life of your car we work with vehicle history professionals such as AutoCheck or CarFax. These vehicle history services typically highlight info such as oil changes, title problems, previous accidents, warranty service, and mileage inconsistencies. Realizing the full history of the vehicle you are ready to purchase lets you make the best possible decision.


Volkswagen online car buying San Diego  CA

Buy, Sell, or Trade at Kearny Mesa Volkswagen

Kearny Mesa Volkswagen invites you to buy, sell, or trade with us, online or in-person. Our pre-owned vehicle inspections are rigorous and our vehicles are guaranteed for quality. Experience a real difference in car-buying. Visit us today for a great selection of new, used, and certified pre-owned cars and SUVs in San Diego, CA. Our friendly Volkswagen team is standing by to serve you.


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8040 Balboa Ave, San Diego, CA, 92111

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Kearny Mesa Volkswagen 32.8228011, -117.1495453.