Checklist Purchasing Used Vehicles

Company Letterhead

{{company_name}}

{{company_address}}

Phone: {{phone}}

Email: {{email}}

Website: {{website}}

Purchasing Used Vehicles: Due Diligence Checklist

**Date:** {{date}}

**Vehicle Make & Model:** {{vehicle_make_model}}

**Vehicle Identification Number (VIN):** {{vin}}

**Seller Name/Company:** {{seller_name}}

**Seller Contact Details:** {{seller_contact}}

Section 1: Vehicle Documentation & History

1.1 **Original Registration Document (Logbook):**

[ ] Verify VIN matches vehicle and documents.

[ ] Check for evidence of outstanding finance (e.g., HP agreement).

[ ] Confirm ownership transfers from previous owners.

1.2 **Service History Record:**

[ ] Full service history available?

[ ] Dates and mileage consistent with vehicle age.

[ ] Major repairs documented with invoices.

1.3 **Accident History Report (e.g., from online services):**

[ ] Any previous accidents reported?

[ ] Severity of damage and repairs undertaken.

1.4 **Roadworthy Certificate (RWC/MOT equivalent):**

[ ] Current and valid RWC?

[ ] Note any advisories or items that barely passed.

Section 2: Exterior & Interior Inspection

2.1 **Exterior Bodywork:**

[ ] Check for rust, dents, scratches, and inconsistencies in paintwork.

[ ] Inspect panel alignment and gaps.

[ ] Condition of lights, mirrors, and trim.

2.2 **Tyres & Wheels:**

[ ] Tread depth meets legal requirements ({{minimum_tread_depth}}mm).

[ ] Uneven wear patterns?

[ ] Inspect alloy wheels for cracks or significant damage.

[ ] Spare tyre, jack, and tools present and in good condition.

2.3 **Interior Condition:**

[ ] Seats, upholstery, and carpets for tears, stains, and excessive wear.

[ ] Functionality of all dashboard lights, gauges, and infotainment.

[ ] Air conditioning and heating system functional?

[ ] Power windows, electric mirrors, central locking operating correctly.

Section 3: Mechanical & Under-Bonnet Inspection

3.1 **Engine Bay:**

[ ] Check for fluid leaks (oil, coolant, power steering, brake fluid).

[ ] Condition of belts and hoses.

[ ] Battery condition and terminals.

[ ] Evidence of excessive corrosion.

3.2 **Undercarriage:**

[ ] Inspect for rust, damage, or evidence of major repairs.

[ ] Exhaust system condition.

[ ] Suspension components (shocks, springs) for leaks or undue wear.

3.3 **Brakes:**

[ ] Pad and disc wear.

[ ] Brake fluid level and condition.

Section 4: Road Test Evaluation

4.1 **Starting & Idling:**

[ ] Easy starting, stable idle, no unusual noises.

4.2 **Acceleration & Power:**

[ ] Smooth acceleration, adequate power delivery for engine size.

4.3 **Braking:**

[ ] Effective and straight braking, no excessive pedal travel or squealing.

4.4 **Steering & Suspension:**

[ ] Responsive steering, no excessive play or vibration.

[ ] Smooth ride over bumps, no excessive body roll or noise.

4.5 **Transmission:**

[ ] Smooth gear changes (manual or automatic), no slipping or jerking.

4.6 **Unusual Noises/Warning Lights:**

[ ] Listen for any unusual sounds (knocking, grinding, whistling).

[ ] Check for illuminated warning lights on the dashboard during driving.

Section 5: Financial & Legal Considerations

5.1 **Asking Price:** {{asking_price}}

[ ] Is the price negotiable? {{negotiated_price}}

[ ] Compare to market value for similar vehicles.

5.2 **Payment Method:** {{payment_method}}

5.3 **Sales Agreement/Invoice:**

[ ] Ensure all details are correct: VIN, make, model, price, seller details.

[ ] Include 'Voetstoots' (as is) clause understanding and negotiation.

[ ] Terms of warranty, if any, clearly stated.

5.4 **Proof of Ownership Transfer:**

[ ] Understand and prepare necessary documents for change of ownership with relevant transport authorities (e.g., {{traffic_department_name}}).

Section 6: Decision & Follow-up

**Overall Assessment:** [ ] Accept [ ] Reject [ ] Further Investigation Required

**Notes/Comments:** {{assessment_notes}}

**Action Required:** {{action_required}}

**Date of Decision:** {{decision_date}}

Signature Block

Inspected By: __________________________

Name: {{inspector_name}}

Title: {{inspector_title}}

Date: {{inspection_date}}

Approved By: __________________________

Name: {{approver_name}}

Title: {{approver_title}}

Date: {{approval_date}}