Used car checklist
7 minute read Published on Nov 8, 2025 by BrokerLink Communications
So, you're thinking about buying a used car. You're not the only one. According to Statistics Canada, used car sales increased 7.1% in 2024, suggesting a growing popularity of second-hand vehicles and the used car market. Despite this hype and the increase in used car prices, buying a used car isn't the same as getting a brand-new model fresh off the lot. There are risks and warning signs you need to be aware of to determine a used car's condition.
This is where a test drive comes into play, as it provides you with the opportunity to uncover hidden problems and avoid expensive repairs later on. In this guide, we're going over our used car checklist non-negotiables, so you can feel confident in your buying decision.
Pre-test drive used vehicle checklist
Before actually taking the vehicle around the block, we recommend taking 5 to 10 minutes of your time to do a pre-drive inspection. Many car buyers skip this step, but it could save you a ton of money in the end. Here's what you need to check:
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Exterior inspection: Look for any discolouration or mismatched paint, body filler, or uneven/gaps in the panels. These could indicate that there have been previous rust repairs conducted on the car.
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Tires: Make sure all four tires are the same brand and that the tread depth is similar. Uneven tread wear could suggest that there are alignment or suspension issues with the car. You'll also want to confirm that the vehicle comes with a spare tire that's functional.
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Look under the vehicle: Keep an eye out for fluid leaks, including engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant.
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Odometer check: Compare the mileage on the vehicle listing with what’s on the dash. Don't be afraid to ask the seller if the mileage has been altered.
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Rust: Inspect all surfaces for rust. Surface rust can spread, and deep rust could mean safety concerns and significant body damage that will be costly to repair.
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Test brake lights, turn signals, and windshield wipers: All lights and signals should work. The window wipers should move back and forth without dragging on the glass.
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Battery: Pop the hood and inspect the battery. The battery terminals should be clean and free of any corrosion.
Used car inspection checklist: red flags to watch out for as you drive
According to the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA), if a private seller refuses to test drive a used vehicle, they could be hiding something. Even though a used vehicle looks good on the surface, there could be hidden issues that present themselves as you're test-driving it, which should prompt you to get a second opinion from a professional mechanic. Here's what you need to pay attention to:
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Burning oil smell: This could point to oil leaks, overdue engine oil change, or other engine troubles.
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Inconsistent acceleration: If the used vehicle jerks, lags, or feels sluggish to operate, there may be a fuel delivery or transmission issue.
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Delayed shifting: If you're looking at a manual vehicle, the gear shifts should be smooth. Any hesitation or "clunking" could mean that the transmission is old or damaged.
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Dashboard warning lights: Even a “Check Engine” light could mean expensive repairs. Inspect the dashboard for any signs that could suggest there is something wrong with the car.
How to do your own inspection of the brakes to test safety and responsiveness
Needless to say, brakes are a critical component of any vehicle. Here’s how to assess them during your test drive:
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Light braking: Lightly press the brake pedal during your drive. Does the car stop smoothly, or does it shake?
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Listen for squeaking or grinding: Brakes that squeak or grind suggest that the brake pads are worn out and need to be replaced immediately.
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Try a hard stop: On an empty road or parking lot, roughly press on the brakes and come to a hard stop. The car should immediately stop in a straight line.
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Feel the pedal: A firm brake pedal is a good sign. If it sinks or feels spongy, it could be broken.
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Test the anti-lock braking system: If the used vehicle has an anti-lock braking system, you should feel pulsing when you brake hard. This means that the system is working as it should be.
How to test the steering and suspension
Statistics Canada reports that as of 2023, there were over 25.7 million registered vehicles in Canada. Many of whom have experienced rough winter conditions, potholes, or long-distance trips that can cause hidden steering and suspension issues.
A steering wheel and suspension that handles well not only means a more comfortable driving experience, but also ensures that your vehicle is operating safely. Here's how you can examine both during and after your drive:
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Looseness: Gently wiggle the steering wheel left and right while driving straight. It should respond to your direction right away. If it feels loose or there's a delay, there could be a problem with the car's steering system.
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Take your hands briefly off the wheel: The car should stay in its lane and continue on a straight path. If the car pulls to the left or the right, there may be issues with the alignment.
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Listen for clunking noises: Any clunking or knocking sounds when you're turning or going over any bumps could mean that the suspension's shock absorbers are worn out.
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Feel for vibrations: If the steering wheel vibrates as you drive, the vehicle may have unbalanced tires or bent wheels.
Used Car Checklist: Post-Drive
Even after your test drive is over, there are still concerns you need to look out for. Here's what you need to do once you're parked:
Re-check for leaks
Before leaving, take one last look underneath the car after letting it sit for a couple of minutes to see if there are any fresh drips on the pavement. If there is any oil, coolant, or transmission fluid after your drive, it can lead to expensive repairs down the road.
Ask about service records
If the dealership or private seller has nothing to hide, they'll be more than happy to provide you with past maintenance records. We recommend asking for receipts or notes of when any oil changes occurred, brake check services, tire rotations, and whether any major repairs were conducted in the previous years.
Check the vehicle identification number
Use online websites like Carfax Canada or your provincial government’s vehicle registry to look up the vehicle’s history report using its VIN (vehicle identification number). These vehicle history reports will tell you if the car's ever been in an accident, who the previous owners are, whether there are any liens on the car, whether or not there are any safety recalls on the car model, and the title status. Beware if the car has a rebuilt or salvage title. These vehicles have been written off before due to an accident, meaning you could be driving a car that has major problems.
Assess your driving experience
Think back to how the vehicle felt as you were driving it. If something didn’t feel right, don't brush it off. You may want to contact a mechanic for a second opinion.
Consider getting a second opinion
Like we said above, if something feels off and if you're buying a used car from a private seller, hiring a third-party mechanic to look over the car before you make a decision is worth the expense.
Can I test a used car even if I don't buy it?
Yes! In Canada, it’s completely normal to test drive a car without committing to buy it, especially if you're working with a dealership. At the same time, private sellers may expect you to have some sort of interest in their vehicle, so make sure to be upfront with them ahead of time.
When working with a dealership, you'll need a valid driver’s licence, and some may request that you have proof of insurance beforehand. If you're in the market to buy a used car, do your research on which used cars are the best ones to buy and test drive as many vehicles as possible before settling on one.
And remember, the best time to buy a car from a dealership, regardless of whether it's a new or used car, is toward the end of the month or the end of the year, as most will be trying to meet their sales quotas.
Is it safe to buy a used car from a seller instead of a dealership?
Yes, but take some precautions. Unlike dealerships, sellers aren’t legally regulated, so it's always important that you protect yourself by doing the following:
Bring a friend or family member with you to view the vehicle.
Meet in a well-lit public space.
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Check ID and ownership papers to ensure the seller’s name matches the registration.
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Consider investing in a mechanic who can inspect the used car and report back on whether there are any issues.
Protect your used car with affordable car insurance
Buying a car is a big financial decision for most Canadians, especially if you're going the used car route. By doing your research ahead of time and conducting a thorough inspection of your potential purchase on and off the road, you can ensure you're investing in a reliable car while avoiding future expensive repair costs.
Beyond ensuring your car is safe, you'll also need to protect your interests with the right car insurance. At BrokerLink, we help Canadians purchase affordable coverage by working with some of Canada's top providers. Our brokers will work closely with you to help you find customized protection based on your needs and budget, including:
Contact BrokerLink over the phone to speak with a broker directly. You can also get a free, customized insurance quote using our online quote tool any time!
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