Before getting a vehicle...

If you're going to buy a used car...You came to the right place.. :D

EXTERIOR
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1.Check if the engine was warmed up prior to visit
2.check panels align,paint matches
3.check tires,uneven tread-wear, use penny to check tread depth
4.open and close all doors-check VIN stickers in panel and on windshield
5.check evidence of leaks under the car
6.check CV joint boots
7.Bounce test shocks
8.Check glass
9.check for body damage,rust,improper body repairs
10.Check all lights/blinkers works
11.check gas cap
12.check for smoke at tailpipe when startup(bad valve seals)
13.check fluids- especially oil for evidence of coolant mix
14.Check belts, battery and when timing belt changed

INTERIOR
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1.Check ignition keyhole isn't tampered- try different key see if starts
2.Turn car to on- verify CHECK ENGINE,ABS and AB lights
3.start and verify CEL,ABS,AB lights go off, Let fully warm-up
4.check mileage and it matches evidence of wear on seats/pedals
5.check all accessories:
     a.Heat               g.Brights
     b.A/C  h.instrument panel lights
     c.Windows  i.Emergency Flashers
     d.Wipers and Wash  j.Cig lighter
     f.Radio  k.Trunk release
6.power/Heated Seats if Availbl
7.Emergency Brake Check
8.Check for Heater core leaks(wet carpet)
9.Check Glove-box for repair documents,recent emissions inspections
10.Check seat-belts

WHILE CAR IS WARMING UP
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1.Check if hoses get hard before engine gets hot(head gasket/cracked block)
2.Check for leaks under car
3.Listen for any knocking sound
4.Feel for Excessive blow-by
5.Constantly be checking for overheating or low oil pressure
6.Check oil for any coolant contamination

TEST DRIVE
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1.check enough gas for drive
2.Check alternator output
3.Change from reverse to drive a couple times-check delay or hard shift
4.Make sure brakes work
5.Turn wheels side to side, check P/S pump
6.Drive through all gears
7.Brake with hands light on wheel-check for vibration or pulling
8.Turns while driving on both sides-Check CV's+bearing
9.Check odometer,speedometer and gauges work
10.Always check for temp and low oil pressure
11.Check if A/C cooling changes with engine speed.
12.Take car on city driving and at least 4 minutes highway driving speeds
13.Stop,turn car off and drive a second cycle as above to  try abd trigger CFL

AFTER TEST DRIVES
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1 check all fluids again
2.Feel oil fill for blow-by again

IF PERMISSIBLE BY OWNER
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1.Vacuum test or compression test

External Links(For More Information)
https://www.carbuyingtips.com/
http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0055-buying-used-car
http://blog.caranddriver.com/10-tips-for-a-successful-car-buying-experience-on-craigslist/