The interior and instrument panel (dash board).



Does everything work? -> Adjust the mirror, start the engine, turn everything on, and off, are there any things that don't work at all?-> Are there any strange noises or smells coming from anywhere inside the car while the engine is on?-> A used car that has been sitting, un-started for a while, might have trouble starting, but that should take care of its self when you restart it.

Are you comfortable? -> Do you think that you could be comfortable in this used car?-> Is the driver's seat adjustable to your size, can you reach the pedals easily, can the mirrors give you 100% visibility?-> Do the seat belts work, all of them?

Start your engine, ready, set, and drive!

Are there any potential engine issues? -> Listen carefully to the sounds. Make note of any rattling, knocking, grinding, or high-pitched whining noises, or any kind of noise that just doesn't sound good. Engine or other problems that have reached the point where they can be heard, are probably past the point of easy repair.-> If the car wants to pull to one side or the other, either when you are driving on a straight road way, climbing, or coming down a hill, or if the used car tries to pull against you when you are making a turn, that means that there is a problem. It could be minor, or severe, and it could be in any part of the car, the tires, the engine, the brakes, or the frame.-> Does the used car accelerate smoothly, from a stop, or when climbing a hill? Engine or transmission damage will cause the car to lose acceleration power.-> Is there any difficulty when shifting gears? If there is, then it could either be a problem in the transmission, or the engine.-> Are all the lights in working condition? Head, tail, and turn signal lights?-> There should be no major amount of or colored smoke coming from the muffler or tail pipe, or from under the hood for that matter.-> Does the car ride smoothly, no bumps or thumps? If you are bouncing in your seat, chances are that there are suspension concerns.-> When making a turn, do all four tires turn as they should? Axle damage could be the culprit if they do not.-> Does the car come to a complete stop, without jerking or rolling, when you apply the brakes?-> When you park the car back at the used car sellers house, or car lot, does the engine turn off without any sputtering, or coughing, or smoke? If it doesn't, then just leave it there, and don't drive home in it. There are plenty of other used cars for sale; you can find one that does not need major repairs.