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Inspection Checklist For Used Car Shopping

inspection checklist for used car shopping santa fe nm


How Do Dealers Inspect Their Used Cars and Trucks?

All cars, before being included in our used vehicle inventory, have to pass a meticulous car inspection checklist of all minor and major vehicle systems. The inspection checklist includes many minute items and criteria which may differ from one store to another. This helps guarantee each used vehicle is in acceptable condition. Most elements fall into three essential buckets: service, electrical, and mechanical. Find out all that’s needed for a used car inspection.



Mechanical Inspection

Mechanical Check

From DSG transmissions to anti-lock brakes, updated mechanical car parts dominate every area of today’s vehicles and it is vital that they’re working properly to avoid accidents and pricey repair bills. A complete inspection should review these components and others such as engine parts, CVT transmissions, 2WD or 4WD systems, the car battery, the exhaust, and cooling systems (the radiator and hoses). If the car is either an electric vehicle or a hybrid, the drive battery can only be inspected and serviced by a professional.

Electronic Checks

Electric Review

More than ever, today’s cars feature complex electronics such as emissions computers, dashboards, touchscreen stereos, navigation systems, and safety cameras. So it is imperative that they receive and pass the same meticulous inspections as the mechanical components. A rigorous electrical inspection includes all external, internal, and emergency lighting, as well as display screens and running lights. Most necessary, however, are diagnostics of any onboard computers and any additional systems controlled by electronics, like the ignition, engine performance settings, braking systems, safety tech, and cell phone systems.

Historical Inspection

Historical Vehicle Report

A meticulous vehicle inspection can expose any current issues, but it might miss issues that happened in the past. To fully understand the life of your car we use vehicle history professionals such as AutoCheck and CarFax. These vehicle history services typically highlight info like oil changes, title problems, previous accidents, warranty service, and mileage inconsistencies. Knowing the entire account of the vehicle you’re wanting to purchase lets you make the best possible decision.



BMW online car buying Santa Fe  NM

Buy, Sell, or Trade at Santa Fe BMW

Santa Fe BMW 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 luxury cars and SUVs in Santa Fe, NM. Our friendly BMW team is standing by to serve you.


Santa Fe BMW 35.632199, -106.023286.