Inspection checklist
Take this list to the viewing. Mark each point OK, watch out or problem and add notes; everything is saved.
Your answers are saved in this browser, even if you close the page.
Papers and RDW
Make, model, colour and year match the RDW data for the plate
The RDW odometer verdict is logical
APK expiry date and open recalls checked
The VIN on the car matches the registration card
The seller has the registration card and the full registration code
Seen the seller's ID
Service booklet and invoices fit the mileage
Exterior
Paint the same colour everywhere, no difference between panels
Gaps between panels equally wide all round
No rust on sills, wheel arches and the bottom of the doors
Windows free of chips and cracks
Headlights, rear lights, brake lights and indicators work
Doors, bonnet and tailgate open and close properly
Tyres and brakes
Tyres worn evenly, with enough tread
Tyres of the same type; DOT code (production week) checked
Brake discs without deep grooves or a thick lip
Spare wheel or tyre repair kit present
Under the bonnet
Cold start: engine fires up well, without odd ticking (ask that it was not warmed up beforehand)
No oil or coolant leaks
Oil level fine, no white, mayonnaise-like residue under the filler cap
No blue or thick white smoke from the exhaust
Battery terminals and cables free of corrosion
Interior and electronics
Wear on steering wheel, gear knob, pedals and driver's seat fits the mileage
No warning lights left on after starting
Air conditioning or climate control blows cold
Windows, mirrors, central locking and infotainment work
No damp patches or musty smell (leaks)
All keys present and working
Test drive
The car drives straight and does not pull to one side
Brakes without shudder, squeal or pulling
Clutch and gearbox shift smoothly (an automatic shifts without jolts)
No knocks or rattles over speed bumps
Steering without play or noises
After the drive: no leaks, burning smell or new warning lights
Summary
- 0OK
- 0Watch out
- 0Problem
- 34Still open
Inspections and inspectorsWork out your negotiation rangeCheck an EV battery
What should you check when viewing a used car?
Start with the papers: does the car match the RDW data, is the tellerstandoordeel (odometer verdict) logical, and does the seller have the registration card and the full registration code? Look this up in advance with the licence plate check. If something is already off here, you can skip the rest.
Then look at the car itself, in daylight and ideally with a cold engine. Bring someone along if you can: two people see more than one.
What do OK, watch out and problem mean?
| Status | Meaning | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| OK | As expected for the age and mileage | Nothing |
| Watch out | Wear, or something that will cost money soon | Ask for an explanation or invoices, use it when negotiating |
| Problem | Fault, safety risk or something that does not add up | Have it inspected or walk away |
If you find points that cost money, work out your room with the negotiation range tool.
Is this checklist enough, or do you need an inspection?
Your own check filters out cars that fail straight away. A pre-purchase inspection looks deeper at mechanics, damage and maintenance, often with a test drive and a look underneath. According to the ANWB it costs €150 to €350; DEKRA charges from €229 and a BOVAG garage or brand dealer roughly €100 to €150. An inspection is not an APK, and neither gives 100% certainty. If the seller refuses an inspection, keep looking.
What should you check on an electric car?
Ask for an independent battery report with the SoH, the share of the original battery capacity that is still usable. A SoH from the car's own display is an estimate. Also check the battery warranty conditions and that the charging cables are included. Read more in used EV battery health.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pre-purchase inspection cost in 2026?
€150 to €350 for a typical car, according to the ANWB. DEKRA charges €229 (Basic) or €375 (Complete) for cars with up to 6 cylinders and no four-wheel drive; ANWB members get 7.5% off. Expert2Go starts at €249. A BOVAG garage or brand dealer charges roughly €100 to €150.
Is a pre-purchase inspection the same as an APK?
No. The APK is the statutory periodic test of road safety and emissions. A pre-purchase inspection looks wider: mechanical condition, previous damage and repairs, maintenance and costs coming up soon. So a car with a fresh APK can still have expensive faults.
Are my answers saved?
Yes, but only in your own browser. That way you can close the page and continue later, for example after the test drive. Nothing is sent to Sell Your Car. Use "Clear all" to empty the list for the next car.
What if the seller refuses a test drive or inspection?
Then look for another car. According to the ANWB, a seller who refuses an independent inspection has already told you enough. A car you may not test-drive or have inspected is a risk, even if the price is attractive.