Articles
Insights, checklists, and guides to help you buy with confidence
Buying a used car in Sri Lanka can be exciting, but also risky if you don’t know the vehicle’s true condition. A pre-purchase vehicle inspection is the smartest way to avoid costly mistakes. Here’s a comprehensive checklist every buyer should follow before signing the deal.
1. Exterior and Body Condition
- Check for dents, scratches, and mismatched paint.
- Look for signs of accident repairs or rust.
- Inspect the glass, lights, and mirrors.
2. Interior Features
- Test the AC, lights, and electronic controls.
- Check seat condition, upholstery, and dashboard warning lights.
- Inspect odometer readings for tampering.
3. Engine & Mechanical Systems
- Listen for unusual noises when starting.
- Look for oil leaks, coolant leaks, or smoke.
- Ensure smooth acceleration and idle.
4. Undercarriage & Suspension
- Inspect suspension for wear and tear.
- Look for rust or structural damage.
Note: For onsite inspections, this may be limited. A workshop inspection is recommended for detailed undercarriage checks.
5. Electrical & Car Scanning
- Run an OBD diagnostic scan to check hidden faults.
- Inspect the battery, wiring, and alternator performance.
6. Test Drive (if permitted)
- Only possible if the car has valid insurance and revenue license.
- Check steering alignment, braking, gear shifting, and vibrations.
Conclusion
A proper inspection helps you avoid buying a problematic vehicle. Always choose a trusted pre-purchase vehicle inspection service in Sri Lanka to guide you.
Buying a used car in Sri Lanka can be exciting, but also risky if you don’t know the vehicle’s true condition. A pre-purchase vehicle inspection is the smartest way to avoid costly mistakes. Here’s a comprehensive checklist every buyer should follow before signing the deal.
1. Exterior and Body Condition
- Check for dents, scratches, and mismatched paint.
- Look for signs of accident repairs or rust.
- Inspect the glass, lights, and mirrors.
2. Interior Features
- Test the AC, lights, and electronic controls.
- Check seat condition, upholstery, and dashboard warning lights.
- Inspect odometer readings for tampering.
3. Engine & Mechanical Systems
- Listen for unusual noises when starting.
- Look for oil leaks, coolant leaks, or smoke.
- Ensure smooth acceleration and idle.
4. Undercarriage & Suspension
- Inspect suspension for wear and tear.
- Look for rust or structural damage.
Note: For onsite inspections, this may be limited. A workshop inspection is recommended for detailed undercarriage checks.
5. Electrical & Car Scanning
- Run an OBD diagnostic scan to check hidden faults.
- Inspect the battery, wiring, and alternator performance.
6. Test Drive (if permitted)
- Only possible if the car has valid insurance and revenue license.
- Check steering alignment, braking, gear shifting, and vibrations.
Conclusion
A proper inspection helps you avoid buying a problematic vehicle. Always choose a trusted pre-purchase vehicle inspection service in Sri Lanka to guide you.