Pellman’s Automotive Used Car Pre-Purchase Checklist

At Pellman’s Automotive in Boulder, we know that purchasing a used car can feel like a leap of faith. Our 30 years of experience in offering honest, reliable auto service means we’ve seen it all—good deals, lemons, and everything in between. To help you navigate this important decision, we’ve compiled a used car pre-purchase checklist. Cheers to a confident car-buying journey!

1. Set a Realistic Budget

The excitement of buying a car can make it easy to overspend, but setting a clear, realistic budget from the start will help you stay financially secure. Always be wary of internet “deals”- if it looks too good to be true, there might be a reason.  Don’t forget to consider hidden costs like insurance, taxes, registration, and future repairs. For example, if you're eyeing a sporty coupe but find that the insurance premiums skyrocket, it may push you past your comfort zone. Stick to your budget—it’s your first step toward a stress-free purchase.

2. Research the Vehicle’s History

Never skip researching the vehicle’s history. Ask the owner for records or use services like Carfax or AutoCheck to look into the car’s past life—accidents, repairs, ownership history, and more. For example, a 2018 SUV with one owner and consistent service records is usually a safer bet than a car with multiple owners and a spotty history. At Pellman’s Automotive, we take this step seriously to save customers on future repairs.

3. Inspect the Exterior and Interior

When you walk around the car, take note of any scratches, dents, or signs of rust. Look closely at the paint job—does it appear uniform, or do certain sections look freshly painted? This could indicate previous damage. Inside, take your time testing all the controls—windows, lights, seat adjustments, and more. A cracked dashboard or faulty air conditioning system, for example, could lead to costly repairs down the road. At Pellman’s, we recommend checking the tires, too—uneven wear patterns can signal alignment or suspension issues.

4. Take a Thorough Test Drive

The test drive is your chance to get a feel for how the car truly performs. Start by driving on both city streets and highways to see how it handles in different conditions. Does the steering feel smooth and responsive, or is there a slight pull to one side? Listen carefully for any rattles, grinding, or unusual noises coming from the engine. A shaky brake pedal or slow acceleration could be red flags. Pellman’s can help diagnose any concerns you notice during the drive. Make sure all of your accessories work like the sun roof, power mirrors and cruise control. 

5. Check for Dashboard Warning Lights

Warning lights on the dashboard should never be ignored. During your test drive, be sure to look for any lights that indicate trouble—such as the check engine, ABS, or oil pressure warnings. If any lights are on, bring the vehicle to a qualified professional to look it over. Warning lights could be an indicator of the current owner’s care of the vehicle because people who ignore warning lights often forgo regular maintenance

6. Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection at Pellman’s

One of the smartest moves you can make before finalizing your purchase is to bring the car in for a professional inspection. At Pellman’s Automotive, our ASE-certified technicians will meticulously inspect every mechanical component of the vehicle, from the engine to the suspension. We’ve saved customers from buying cars with issues like oil leaks or hidden body damage, preventing headaches and unexpected repair costs. You can also use the inspection results to help negotiate the price.

7. Review the Paperwork

Before you sign anything, ensure all paperwork is in order. A clean title is a must, and any warranties or service agreements should be clearly outlined. Previous maintenance records are a huge plus.

By following this checklist and visiting Pellman’s Automotive for a pre-purchase inspection, you’ll ensure that the used car you buy is a smart investment. Our expert team is here to help you make a confident, informed decision—every step of the way!