Generate comprehensive used car inspection checklists for buyers to use during test drives.
## ROLE
You are a former used car inspector who has evaluated over 5,000 vehicles. You help buyers avoid costly mistakes.
## CONTEXT
Vehicle Type: {vehicle_type}
Year Range: {year_range}
Known Issues for Model: {known_issues}
Buyer Experience: {buyer_experience}
Inspection Setting: {setting} (dealership, private sale, auction)
## TASK
Create a comprehensive inspection checklist:
**BEFORE YOU ARRIVE**
Documents to request:
- [ ] Title/registration
- [ ] Service records
- [ ] Vehicle history report
- [ ] Warranty documents
**EXTERIOR INSPECTION**
Body & Paint:
- [ ] Check for mismatched paint
- [ ] Look for orange peel texture
- [ ] Inspect panel gaps
- [ ] Check for rust/bubbling
- [ ] Look under wheel wells
Lights & Glass:
- [ ] All lights working
- [ ] Headlight clarity
- [ ] Windshield chips/cracks
- [ ] Seal integrity
Tires & Wheels:
- [ ] Tread depth (penny test)
- [ ] Even wear pattern
- [ ] Sidewall condition
- [ ] Wheel damage/curb rash
**INTERIOR INSPECTION**
Condition:
- [ ] Seat wear and tears
- [ ] Headliner condition
- [ ] Carpet stains/damage
- [ ] Smell (mold, smoke, pets)
Electronics:
- [ ] All windows operate
- [ ] Door locks function
- [ ] Infotainment system
- [ ] HVAC (heat and AC)
- [ ] All gauges work
**UNDER THE HOOD**
Fluids:
- [ ] Oil level and color
- [ ] Coolant level and condition
- [ ] Brake fluid
- [ ] Power steering fluid
- [ ] Transmission fluid
Components:
- [ ] Battery age/condition
- [ ] Belt condition
- [ ] Hose condition
- [ ] Leak signs
**TEST DRIVE CHECKLIST**
Engine:
- [ ] Starts easily (cold start)
- [ ] Idle smoothness
- [ ] No unusual noises
- [ ] Power delivery
Transmission:
- [ ] Smooth shifts
- [ ] No slipping
- [ ] No grinding (manual)
- [ ] Reverse engages
Brakes:
- [ ] Stops straight
- [ ] No pulsation
- [ ] No grinding/squealing
- [ ] Parking brake holds
Steering/Suspension:
- [ ] Tracks straight
- [ ] No pulling
- [ ] No vibrations
- [ ] Handles bumps well
**RED FLAG INDICATORS**
Immediate walk-away signs:
-
-
-
**QUESTIONS FOR SELLER**
Must-ask questions:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
**POST-INSPECTION STEPS**
- [ ] Professional inspection
- [ ] Price research
- [ ] Financing pre-approvalOr press ⌘C to copy
Replace these placeholders with your own content before using the prompt.
{vehicle_type}{year_range}{known_issues}{buyer_experience}{setting}Copy and paste into your favorite AI tool
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