Used Car Inspection Checklists

[carlosrpairs]

As a small dealer, moving to a formal inspection checklist is a smart step—especially if you’re already selling cars honestly in that price range. In New York, state-licensed shops like Carlos Repairs @Ridge follow clear, measurable standards during inspections, which is a good model to borrow from when building your own checklist. Customers often ask basic questions like “How much is a New York State inspection?”, but what really builds trust is having clear numbers and documentation to back up your answers.


From what I’ve seen:

1. Yes—most buyers don’t get an independent inspection, and the ones who do usually already trust their mechanic. Your checklist won’t replace that, but it adds credibility and helps serious buyers feel more confident upfront.
2. Keeping it simple works best. A 3-option system (OK / Needs Attention / N/A) with measured notes (tire tread, brake thickness) is usually enough. Too many options can confuse customers.
3. As long as you’re clear that it’s a condition report at the time of inspection (not a warranty), you’re generally reducing risk, not increasing it—especially if your checklist mirrors what a New York State inspection already checks for safety and compliance.

A solid 40–50 point checklist sounds like the happy medium for your inventory and price range—thorough, professional, and not overkill.

 

[TJThompson]

I agree with your thinking. Those “150 billion point” inspections are full of items that I believe buyers look at and think “wow big deal they looked at both headlights”. A lot of filler/bs items checked are assumed since they are buying from a dealer of some sort and not a curber.

Stick to the big ticket items that matter and someone will at least read them. I’d also skip the “numbered” checklist like “25 item checklist” since tomorrow the next guy will have 26 items. Brand the inspection something like “peace of mind inspection” and refer to it as that