Used Nissan

The Exterior Must Be Damage and Rust-Free
The bodywork doesn’t have to be in perfect nick, but the paint shouldn’t be faded, and the panels should be of the same color and line up perfectly. If you see a few shallow scratches and dents, it’s okay, but rust is not a good sign.

The Doors, Lights, Windows, and Tires Must Be in Good Condition
All the doors must open easily, and the rubber seals must be in good condition. Check the windshield and windows chips and cracks and make sure there’s no damage to the reflectors, lenses, or lights. Walk around the car and inspect all four tires. There must be plenty of tread left, and the tires must be damage-free. Open the trunk and make sure there’s a quality jack and lug wrench and that the spare tire is in good condition.

Everything Must Be Well-Maintained Under the Hood
Pop your head under the hood to check if everything is well-maintained and in its place. You shouldn’t see loose wires, cracked hoses, frayed belts, or battery corrosion. Take a deep breath. If it smells and looks clean, ask for the engine to be turned on. Listen carefully for any strange noises. You should only hear the soft purr of a smooth-running engine.

The Interior Must Be Spotlessly Clean
Get into the car and check everything inside thoroughly. It must smell fresh and clean without the slightest scent of mold or fumes. The seats should be comfortable and easily adjustable, and the seatbelts should extend, retract, and latch smoothly. The upholstery should be clean and free of tears and stains.

The Electronics Must Work
Turn the key in the ignition to check the dashboard warning lights. When you start the engine, the lights should go off. While the engine is running, you can fiddle around with the electronics. Don’t allow flashy features to distract you, but if there are any, they should work.

It Must Be a Smooth Ride
While on the road, test the turn signals, windshield wipers, brakes, and the overall feel of the controls, from gear shifts to the play on the steering wheel. You shouldn’t feel vibrations, hear unusual noises, or smell strange odors.

The Car Must Have an Up-To-Date Service Record
Before you make a final decision, you need to see the car’s service record. An up-to-date service record tells you that the used car you are interested in was well maintained and in good running condition.