Used Vehicle Reconditioning Inspection Checklist

This used vehicle reconditioning checklist ensures pre-owned inventory meets CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) program standards, FTC Used Car Rule requirements, and dealer quality benchmarks before retail display. Designed for reconditioning technicians and used car managers to systematically assess mechanical condition, safety systems, cosmetic needs, and certification eligibility. Complete for every used vehicle upon acquisition.

  • Industry: Automotive Dealership
  • Frequency: Per Vehicle
  • Estimated Time: 60-90 minutes
  • Role: Reconditioning Technician / Used Car Manager
  • Total Items: 31
  • Compliance: FTC Used Car Rule (16 CFR Part 455), NHTSA Safety Recall Requirements, OEM CPO Program Standards, State Lemon Law Requirements, UK DVSA MOT Standards

Safety, Recall & Title History

Critical pre-reconditioning checks for safety recalls, title history, and odometer disclosure per NHTSA and FTC requirements.

  • NHTSA open recall search completed and all open recalls noted?
  • Title history report (Carfax/AutoCheck) reviewed for branded titles, accidents, and odometer issues?
  • Odometer reading verified and matches title disclosure?
  • No prior lemon law buyback history found?
  • Structural/frame damage history reviewed and evaluated?

Mechanical Condition Assessment

Comprehensive mechanical assessment covering all powertrain, brake, and suspension systems to determine reconditioning needs.

  • Engine starts readily, runs smoothly with no misfires or abnormal noise?
  • Transmission shifts smoothly through all gears with no slipping or hard shifts?
  • Brake pad/rotor thickness measured and documented?
  • Steering responsive with no pull, wander, or excessive play?
  • Suspension components inspected for wear (ball joints, tie rods, control arm bushings)?
  • Exhaust system intact with no leaks, damage, or excessive smoke?
  • All fluid systems leak-free (oil, transmission, coolant, power steering, brake)?
  • OBD-II diagnostic scan performed and all DTCs documented?

Tire & Wheel Condition

Assess tire tread depth, condition, age, and wheel integrity for reconditioning or replacement decisions.

  • Tread depth measured on all four tires (minimum 4/32" recommended for CPO)?
  • Tire age (DOT date code) verified - tires not older than 6 years?
  • Wheels free of significant curb rash, bends, and cracks?
  • TPMS sensors all functional and showing correct readings?

Cosmetic Condition & Detail Needs

Document all cosmetic defects to develop a reconditioning plan. Photograph all defects for cost estimation.

  • Paint condition rated and all defects (scratches, chips, dents) documented with photos?
  • All body panels assessed for dents, dings, and prior repair evidence?
  • Interior rated: upholstery, carpet, headliner, and trim damage documented?
  • Interior odor assessed (smoke, pet, mold) and remediation plan noted?
  • All glass inspected for chips, cracks, and failed seals?

CPO Eligibility & Buyers Guide

Determine CPO program eligibility and prepare required FTC Buyers Guide disclosure documentation.

  • Vehicle meets CPO program age and mileage requirements?
  • FTC Buyers Guide prepared and ready for display in vehicle window?
  • Reconditioning cost estimate completed and approved by management?
  • Target retail-ready date established and communicated to used car manager?

Safety Systems Verification

Verify all safety-critical systems are operational before vehicle is offered for sale.

  • Airbag system fully functional - no SRS warning light or deployed airbags?
  • All seatbelts retract, latch, and pretensioners functional?
  • ABS system functional - no warning light after drive cycle?
  • Horn, all exterior lights, turn signals, and hazard lights functional?
  • All wiper blades functional and washer fluid reservoir filled?

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Why Use This Used Vehicle Reconditioning Inspection Checklist?

This used vehicle reconditioning inspection checklist helps automotive dealership teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for reconditioning technician / used car manager professionals, this checklist covers 31 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per vehicle.

Ensures compliance with FTC Used Car Rule (16 CFR Part 455), NHTSA Safety Recall Requirements, OEM CPO Program Standards, State Lemon Law Requirements, UK DVSA MOT Standards, India MoRTH Used Vehicle Guidelines, Australia ACCC Used Car Standards. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Used Vehicle Reconditioning Inspection Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 31 inspection items across 6 sections: Safety, Recall & Title History, Mechanical Condition Assessment, Tire & Wheel Condition, Cosmetic Condition & Detail Needs, CPO Eligibility & Buyers Guide, Safety Systems Verification. It is designed for automotive dealership operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per vehicle. Each completion takes approximately 60-90 minutes.

Who should use this Used Vehicle Reconditioning Inspection Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Reconditioning Technician / Used Car Manager professionals in the automotive dealership industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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