Before You Bid: The Quick Inspection
At busy auctions, you may only have minutes to inspect a vehicle. Here's what to prioritize.
Exterior Check
- Walk around all four sides looking for body damage
- Check panel gaps — uneven gaps suggest body work
- Look for paint color differences between panels
- Check all glass for chips or cracks
- Inspect tires for uneven wear (alignment issues)
- Look under the vehicle for fluid leaks
Interior Check
- Check odometer reading against the title
- Start the engine — listen for unusual noises
- Test all electrical features (windows, locks, AC, heat)
- Check for water stains or musty smell (flood damage)
- Inspect seats, carpet, and headliner for wear
- Test infotainment system
Under the Hood
- Look for fluid leaks
- Check oil condition (milky = head gasket issue)
- Inspect belts and hoses
- Look for corrosion or rust
- Check battery terminals
Red Flags
- Fresh undercoating (hiding rust or frame damage)
- New carpet or seats in an older vehicle (hiding damage)
- Overly strong air freshener (masking odors)
- Mismatched tires
- Aftermarket parts on a low-mileage vehicle
Use Technology
Run the VIN through a vehicle history report. LaneDock automatically flags risk factors like salvage titles, high mileage, and other concerns.