What to Look for in a Used Car: A Practical Checklist

The short answer: start with the vehicle history report and service records, inspect the exterior, tires, brakes and interior, take a test drive on roads you actually use, and review the paperwork before you sign. Where possible, have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle.

1. Check the Paperwork First

Ask for the vehicle history report and any service records. Look for a clean title, consistent mileage, reported accidents and open recalls. A manufacturer recall lookup by VIN is free on the manufacturer's site and the federal NHTSA recall site.

2. Walk Around the Exterior

Look for uneven panel gaps, paint that does not match from panel to panel and signs of rust on the wheel wells, rocker panels and underbody. Chicago road salt makes underbody corrosion a real concern on vehicles that spent winters here.

3. Tires, Brakes and Battery

Check tire tread depth and whether wear is even; uneven wear can point to alignment or suspension problems. Ask when the brakes and battery were last replaced. These are common wear items that affect your near-term cost of ownership.

4. Interior and Technology

Test every window, lock, seat adjustment, climate setting, screen and USB port. Confirm Bluetooth pairing and, if it matters to you, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Check for water stains, musty smells and warning lights that stay on after startup.

5. Take a Real Test Drive

Drive on city streets and on a highway. Listen for unusual noises, feel for vibration, and test the brakes and steering. Try parking it; visibility and size matter in tight Chicago spaces.

6. Review the Deal Before You Sign

Compare the full price, fees, financing terms and any add-ons in writing. If you are trading in a vehicle, see how trade-ins work. Considering certified? Read Used vs Certified Pre-Owned.

Find a Used Vehicle at Dial

Search all used inventory or browse certified pre-owned. Ask the store about any vehicle's history report and available inspection documentation.

Keep Researching

Shop at the Right Dial Location

Dial Auto Group has five Chicago dealerships. Each brand is sold at specific stores, so start with the store that carries the vehicle you want.

Dealership	Brands	Address	Shop
Dial Chevy of Chicago	Chevrolet	6603 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60636	New \| Used
Dial Nissan of Chicago	Nissan	7410 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60636	New \| Used
INFINITI of Chicago	INFINITI	2711 S State St, Chicago, IL 60616	New \| Used
Dial Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Chicago	Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram	7340 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60636	New \| Used
Jeep of Chicago	Jeep	5950 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60659	New \| Used

See all Dial Auto Group locations or search new and used inventory across the group.

Last reviewed October 2026 by Dial Auto Group. This guide is general information, not financial or legal advice. Vehicle features, availability and pricing vary by model and dealership; confirm details with the store.