1. View the car in natural daylight from a few feet back to spot any inconsistencies. What you’re looking for is uniform paint color and finish. A mismatch in shade, gloss, or texture may indicate that a panel was repainted.
2. Inspect the body closely for scratches or dents. Minor flaws are expected on older vehicles, but deep scratches or a flaking coat could signal rushed repairs or neglect. These imperfections also increase the chance of rust forming later.
3. Speaking of rust, check carefully around the bottom edges of doors, wheel arches, trunk edges, and lower body panels, as these areas are most vulnerable to corrosion. Surface rust that’s bubbling or pitting could indicate that it’s already spreading underneath.

Tip: Bring a small magnet and run it across various body panels. If it doesn’t stick in some areas, that could be a sign of body filler used after crash damage.

The gaps between doors, the hood, and the trunk should be even and symmetrical. Uneven spacing or misalignment can point to prior collision damage or poor-quality repairs.

Pay attention to how each panel opens and closes: doors that feel stiff or don’t latch properly may indicate structural damage to the frame.

Inspect all glass surfaces (especially the windshield and side windows) for cracks, chips, or fractures. Small chips can grow over time, and larger cracks may require immediate repair.

Then check all exterior lights: headlights, brake lights, reverse lights, turn signals, and fog lamps. Make sure they light up properly and evenly. Discoloration, condensation inside the lens, or a broken light cover can affect visibility and safety.

1. Start by checking the tread depth on all four tires using a tread depth gauge. If the tread is less than 1.6 mm, they will need to be replaced soon.
2. Look closely at the wear patterns. Uneven wear (more wear on one edge, cupping, or bald spots) could mean faulty suspension or poor tire inflation.

1. Check the sidewalls for any cracks, bulges, or deep abrasions. In Egypt’s hot climate, sidewall damage is a major risk factor for blowouts, even on low-mileage vehicles.
2. Next, check that all four tires are the same brand and type. Mismatched tires can negatively affect handling and braking.
3. Use a pressure gauge and compare the reading against the manufacturer's recommended levels to make sure each tire is inflated correctly.

Inspect the rims and hubcaps for any curb rash, dents, or cracks, as these could affect driving stability.

Ensure that all lug nuts are present and secure; missing or loose hardware is both unsafe and costly to fix if ignored.

Now, we’ll test the suspension manually. Press down firmly on each corner of the car and release:

• If it bounces more than once, the shocks or struts may be worn out.
• If you hear creaking or knocking, this could indicate worn bushings, control arms, or other suspension joints.

1. Engine oil: Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, then pull it out again. The oil should be amber or light brown. If it’s dark, gritty, or smells burnt, it likely hasn’t been changed in a while.
2. Coolant: Look inside the coolant reservoir. The coolant should have a bright, clear color. Milky or rusty coolant may suggest a blown head gasket or internal corrosion.
3. Brake fluid & power steering fluid: Both should be clear and at the proper level. If they’re low, it could indicate a leak that can affect safety and performance.

Tip: If the car has been parked for a while, check the ground underneath for any oil or fluid stains; they could signal a leak.

1. Inspect the visible engine belts for frays or worn edges. Listen for any squeaking when the engine is running, as that usually means a belt is slipping or worn.
2. Next, check all rubber hoses (especially radiator and vacuum hoses). They should feel firm but flexible: not soft, sticky, cracked, or brittle.

Look for signs of fluid leaks throughout the engine bay and underneath the vehicle. Pay close attention to the battery terminals, too.

1. Inspect the entire dashboard for cracks, fading, or signs of tampering. Test the gauges, switches, and steering column adjustments. Everything should work smoothly and be accessible from the driver’s seat.
2. Then, turn the ignition to “on” without starting the engine. All warning lights (check engine, ABS, airbags, battery, brake) should light up briefly, then switch off once the car starts.
3. If any of the warning lights stay on, it means there’s an issue with the system. And if any of them don't come on at all, it could mean someone disabled the warning light to hide a problem.

• Air conditioning and heater: Make sure both functions respond quickly. Weak airflow or strange smells may point to clogged filters or compressor issues.
• Windows and mirrors: Try every switch from both the driver and passenger side. Power windows should glide smoothly without hesitation or noise.
• Infotainment system: Check the touchscreen (if present), radio, USB ports, AUX input, and Bluetooth connectivity. Laggy response or glitchy displays may suggest system damage or outdated firmware.

1. Adjust every seat manually or electrically to make sure it moves and locks correctly. Next, inspect the seatbelts: they should click in firmly and retract smoothly.
2. Check the condition of the upholstery. Look for tears, stains, burns, or sagging foam. These might seem cosmetic, but they often point to how well (or poorly) the car has been cared for.
3. Also, be wary of any soft, wet spots under the mats or in the trunk area. They can be a sign of previous water damage. These can lead to mold, electrical failure, or even frame rust.

• Cold start behavior: Start the engine while it’s cold; it's when engine wear is most noticeable. Listen for any knocking, delayed throttle, loud rattling, or excessive vibration. These can indicate valve trouble or internal wear.
• Steering feel at a stop: Move the steering wheel left and right. If it feels stiff or vibrates even before driving, it could point to power steering issues.
• Look at the exhaust: Blue smoke = burning oil. White smoke = coolant issues. Black smoke = fuel system problems.

• Steering & alignment: The car should drive straight with a light grip on the wheel. If it pulls to one side or the steering feels loose or jittery, it's likely an alignment or suspension issue.
• Braking performance: Test braking at different speeds. The brake pedal should feel firm and responsive, not soft or spongy.
• Gear shifting: It should be smooth and predictable for both automatic and manual gears. Jerking or loud clunks could signal transmission or clutch issues.
• Suspension: Drive over speed bumps or rough roads, and listen for any rattles or creaks. Excessive bounce after hitting a bump is a classic sign of worn shocks or struts.
• AC performance: Turn the AC on full blast. The cabin should cool quickly and evenly. Weak airflow or odd smells could point to compressor problems or mold in the vents.

Tip: Don’t let the seller rush you. Drive at different speeds, and test parking and braking in real conditions.