Used Car Inspection Guide: 8 Sections Explained

The highest-weighted section. Check for: cold start smoke, oil leaks under the hood, unusual engine noise at idle, smooth gear shifts (manual) or seamless kickdown (automatic), clutch engagement point (manual). A warm engine that ticks or smokes is a major red flag — downgrade this section to Fair or Bad and use it as negotiation leverage.

Look for uneven panel gaps (sign of accident repair), inconsistent paint depth across panels, rust on sill panels and wheel arches, and filler detected by tapping with a knuckle (dull thud vs metallic ring). One repainted door after a minor accident is acceptable. Full resprays or mismatched panels suggest a major accident history.

Check all switches, power windows (each one individually), infotainment screen, air vents, seat mechanisms, and odometer. Pakistani climate is harsh on interiors — cracked dashboards and faded fabric are normal and should not significantly reduce score unless the car is positioned as premium.

Check tread depth (insert a coin — if the coin edge disappears, depth is acceptable), tyre age from the DOT date code on the sidewall (no tyre older than 5 years regardless of tread), and uneven wear patterns that indicate alignment or suspension issues. Replacing all four tyres costs PKR 20,000–50,000 — factor this into negotiation if worn.

Test brakes at low speed: does the car pull to one side? Does the pedal feel spongy? Any grinding or squealing noise under braking? Ask to lift a wheel to visually inspect pad thickness and disc condition. Brake replacement (pads + discs, one axle) typically costs PKR 15,000–40,000 in Pakistan.

Drive over a speed bump slowly and listen for clunks or rattles from the suspension. Check steering wheel play (should be minimal in modern cars). Bounce each corner of the car — it should settle immediately, not continue bouncing (failed shock absorbers). Suspension work is among the most expensive repairs — weight this section carefully.

Run the AC on maximum and measure cabin temperature after 5 minutes (should reach below 20°C in most Pakistani weather). Compressor should not produce unusual clicking or grinding noises. Heater should produce genuine heat when tested. AC re-gassing costs PKR 5,000–15,000; compressor replacement PKR 30,000–80,000.

Test every light (headlights high/low, indicators, reverse, brake, hazard), central locking on all doors, all power windows, horn, instrument cluster warning lights (start the car and ensure no warning lights remain on). Electrical faults in older Pakistani cars are common and can be expensive to diagnose — treat persistent warning lights as a red flag.