Found a great deal on GoldCatch AI? Excellent! Now it's time to view the car in person. Here's your essential checklist.
1. Exterior Condition
Walk around the car slowly and look for:
- Scratches, dents, or rust
- Panel alignment and paint matching
- Tire condition and tread depth
- Glass chips or cracks
- Signs of accident repair
Pro tip: Look at the car in good lighting. Mismatched paint is easier to spot in daylight.
2. Interior Condition
Check inside for:
- Seat wear and tear
- Dashboard cracks
- All buttons and switches working
- Air conditioning functionality
- Unusual odors (could indicate water damage)
3. Under the Hood
Even if you're not a mechanic, look for:
- Fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid)
- Signs of leaks
- Battery condition
- Belt wear
- General cleanliness (shows care)
4. Service History
Always request:
- Full service history
- MOT certificates
- Previous owner details
- Any warranty information
Red flag: Missing service history or incomplete records.
5. Test Drive
During the test drive, pay attention to:
- Engine starting smoothly
- Gear changes (manual or automatic)
- Brake responsiveness
- Steering alignment
- Unusual noises or vibrations
- Warning lights on dashboard
6. Mileage Verification
- Check if mileage matches service records
- Look for wear consistent with mileage
- Be suspicious of very low mileage on older cars
7. HPI Check
Always run an HPI check to verify:
- Outstanding finance
- Written-off history
- Stolen vehicle check
- Number plate changes
8. Ownership Documents
Ensure you see:
- V5C logbook (should match seller details)
- Two keys (replacement keys are expensive)
- Spare wheel and tools
- Owner's manual
9. Timing Belt History
For cars over 60,000 miles, check if the timing belt has been replaced. This is a costly repair if not done.
10. Price Negotiation Research
Use GoldCatch AI's value score to guide your negotiation. If you spot issues during inspection, use them to negotiate a better price.
Final Thoughts
Trust your gut. If something feels off, walk away. There are always more deals on GoldCatch AI!
Remember: A good deal on paper should also be a good deal in person. Take your time and be thorough.