A test drive and inspection checklist for used cars
A printable used car checklist for Ontario buyers: what to look at before, during and after a test drive, and why a pre-purchase inspection matters.
Quick answer
Look the car over in daylight, check the paperwork and history, then take a test drive of at least 20–30 minutes on both city streets and highway. Finish with an independent pre-purchase inspection, especially if the manufacturer’s warranty has expired, and get every promise and disclosure in writing.
What should I do before the test drive?
Paperwork and history
- Ask for a vehicle history report (such as CARFAX Canada) and any maintenance records.
- Check the VIN on the dashboard and door jamb matches the paperwork.
- Search the VIN for open recalls on Transport Canada’s recall database.
- Ask whether the car is certified, unfit or as-is.
Walk-around (in daylight)
- Panels: uneven gaps or paint that doesn’t quite match can mean past bodywork. Ask about it.
- Rust: check wheel arches, rocker panels, door bottoms and underneath. Ontario road salt is hard on cars.
- Tires: even wear across the tread, matching brands, and enough depth. Uneven wear can point to alignment or suspension issues.
- Glass and lights: chips, cracks, and every light working.
- Under the hood: fluid levels and colour, any leaks, and belts and hoses that aren’t cracked.
Inside
- Warning lights should come on at start-up and then go out.
- Test heat, A/C, defrost, windows, locks, wipers, mirrors, seat heaters and the infotainment system.
- Smell for dampness or mildew, and look under the mats for water stains.
What should I check during the test drive?
OMVIC recommends a thorough test drive, “not just around the block.” Plan for at least 20–30 minutes and include:
- A cold start if you can. Listen for rough idling or knocking.
- City driving: smooth gear changes, no clunks over bumps, steering that returns to centre.
- Highway speeds: no shaking, wandering or vibration through the wheel; cruise control works.
- Braking: straight, firm stops with no grinding, pulling or pulsing pedal.
- Parking: full-lock turns both ways, listening for clicks or groans; test the backup camera and sensors.
Drive with the radio off so you can hear the car.
What should I check after the drive?
- Look under the car where it was parked for fresh drips.
- Pop the hood again and check for smells of burning oil or coolant.
- Recheck the dash for any warning lights that came on during the drive.
Do I need a pre-purchase inspection?
It’s one of the best things you can do. OMVIC recommends having a used vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic, especially once the manufacturer’s warranty has expired, because an inspection may find issues the seller didn’t disclose or didn’t know about (OMVIC shopping tips).
Remember that a Safety Standards Certificate is a minimum-standards check on the day it was issued, not a full mechanical inspection or a warranty. A pre-purchase inspection looks at more.
What paperwork should I get before signing?
- All disclosures in writing. Registered dealers must disclose specific facts on the contract, such as accident repairs over $3,000, past use as a rental or taxi, and branded status (OMVIC mandatory disclosures).
- All promises in writing, for example “rear brakes to be replaced before delivery.”
- Copies of everything: the ad, contract, any finance agreement and the safety certificate.
- Private sale? Get the Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) and a signed bill of sale (ontario.ca).
There’s no cooling-off period after you sign, so take your time.
Quick printable checklist
- History report, records, VIN match, recall check
- Status: certified, unfit or as-is
- Walk-around in daylight: panels, rust, tires, glass, fluids
- Interior: warning lights, climate, electrics, signs of water
- 20–30 minute drive: city, highway, braking, parking
- After-drive check for leaks and warning lights
- Independent pre-purchase inspection
- Every disclosure and promise in writing
Book a test drive with us
Call 416-450-4366 and tell us which car you’d like to see. We’ll have it ready, and you’re welcome to bring your own mechanic or arrange an independent inspection. Browse our inventory or see how to find us.
Certified cars on our lot now
- 2013 Fiat 500 1.4 Pop: $5,998 + HST & licensing · 116,442 km · Certified
- 2012 Hyundai Sonata 2.4 Hybrid Premium: $7,988 + HST & licensing · 139,825 km · Certified
- 2010 Ford Escape Limited: $7,995 + HST & licensing · 146,299 km · Certified
- 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 Double Cab SLE: $13,998 + HST & licensing · 266,000 km · Certified
Inventory changes often. See everything in stock.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a used car test drive be?
OMVIC recommends a thorough test drive, not just around the block. Plan for at least 20 to 30 minutes, including city streets, highway speeds, braking and parking.
Is a safety certificate the same as a pre-purchase inspection?
No. A Safety Standards Certificate confirms the car met minimum safety standards on the date it was issued and isn’t a warranty. A pre-purchase inspection by your own mechanic looks at the car’s overall mechanical condition.
How do I check a used car for recalls in Canada?
Search the vehicle’s VIN in Transport Canada’s motor vehicle safety recalls database, then ask the seller or a franchised dealer whether open recalls have been completed.
Can I bring my own mechanic to inspect a car?
Asking for an independent inspection is a normal part of buying a used car, and OMVIC recommends it. At Markville Motors you’re welcome to arrange one.
Financing is subject to lender approval (OAC). Our pre-approval form doesn’t run a credit check. We don’t advertise rates, payments or guaranteed approval.
Sources
- OMVIC: Shopping for a vehicle
- OMVIC: Mandatory disclosures
- Transport Canada: Defects and recalls
- Ontario: Safety standards certificate
- Ontario: Buy or sell a used vehicle