Onsite-ready
Used EV inspection checklist
Covers documents, battery pack, high-voltage system, accident/flood signs, test drive and professional diagnostics. Check, print or copy it for an inspector.
Before viewing Vehicle license Ask the seller for photos in advance and verify originals onsite. Registration certificate Verify use type, owner, transfers and liens. Invoice and warranty booklet Ask for invoice or warranty booklet photos. Service records Prioritize official and third-party service records. Insurance claim records Watch for high repair amounts, water damage, structural and battery-pack items. Ownership and commercial-use status Check registration, claims, interior wear and annual mileage.
Onsite static check Displayed full-charge range Photograph the display at full charge and note temperature and drive mode. Charge-port condition Inspect fast/slow charge ports, covers and connector feel. Battery pack underside Lift the car and photograph battery pack underside and edges. Battery pack mounting points Look for disturbed bolts or deformed brackets. High-voltage harness Inspect orange high-voltage harness routing and condition. Cooling pipes and leaks Check coolant lines, joints and underbody leaks. Structural body parts Check rails, crash beams, apron rails, welds and sealant lines. Door/hood/trunk bolts Look for paint damage on bolts and left/right consistency. Seat rails and seat-belt base Pull belts fully out and inspect bases and rails. Carpet and trunk well Lift accessible trim and photograph findings.
Test drive Acceleration and power output Accelerate gently and firmly where safe; watch display and response. Regeneration and brake feel Switch regen levels and feel braking/drag behavior. HVAC cooling/heating Run HVAC under load and watch for faults or abnormal drain.
Professional diagnostics SOH Read with manufacturer diagnostics or third-party equipment. Cell min/max voltage and voltage delta Read full BMS data and keep the report. Insulation resistance Have a professional organization test it; do not attempt it yourself. Historical and current fault codes Read and save screenshots or reports of fault codes. Fast-charge and slow-charge counts Read charging history or consult official service. Engine or range-extender condition Check startup, idle behavior, service records, fault codes and fuel/electric switching.
Before payment Manufacturer warranty review Before payment, verify remaining warranty through the official app, service center or support. Risk-based negotiation notes Put inspection findings into a negotiation list. Lien, legal restriction and violations Confirm status before transfer and check with the vehicle authority if needed.
Items that need professional tools
SOH, cell voltage delta, insulation resistance, fault codes, fast-charge count and battery temperature distribution should be read by a service center or professional inspector.
See what these readings mean