How to Do a Pre-Purchase Inspection

A good pre-purchase inspection (PPI) is the best money you can spend when buying a used Corvette. It can save you from expensive surprises and give you leverage in negotiation. Even if you're paying a shop to do it, knowing what to look for helps you ask the right questions.

Before you see the car

• Run the VIN through a vehicle history service and check for open recalls on the official NHTSA website.
• Ask for records. Service history, receipts for major work and original documents where available.
• Read up on the generation. Our buyer's guides list known issues for each one.
• Ask the seller to leave the car cold so you can see how it starts.

Exterior and body

• Look down the sides of the car in good light to spot waves and color mismatches.
• Fiberglass and composite panels don't rust, but they can crack, and repairs can be hard to spot. Look for stress cracks near the mounting points and uneven panel gaps.
• Check the glass, lights and weatherstripping.
• Look at the date codes on the tires and for uneven wear, which can point to alignment or suspension problems.

Underneath

• Look for rust on the frame, especially on classic generations.
• Look for fluid leaks: oil, coolant, transmission and differential fluid.
• Check for damaged or scraped frame rails, a sign of hitting obstacles or being lifted incorrectly.
• Inspect the suspension bushings, ball joints and shocks.

Engine bay

• Look for leaks, cracked hoses and non-original parts.
• Check the oil level and condition, and the coolant level and color.
• Listen for ticks, knocks or squeals on a cold start.
• Note any modifications and ask whether they are emissions-legal in your area.

Interior and electrical

• Test every switch, light, window, lock, mirror and the climate control.
• Check the seats for bolster wear and the carpet for water staining.
• On convertibles and targa tops, look for signs of leaks.
• Make sure no warning lights stay on after startup.

Test drive

• Drive at a mix of speeds, including the highway.
• Check that the car tracks straight and brakes evenly.
• Listen for clunks over bumps and whines from the driveline.
• Test both automatic and manual modes on cars that have them.

Bring in a specialist

Even if you're comfortable inspecting a car, consider a Corvette-specialist shop for:

• A scan for stored trouble codes
• A compression or leak-down test on high-mileage or modified engines
• A lift inspection
• Classic cars, where originality and restoration quality need expert eyes

Negotiation

Use what you find to negotiate, but be fair. Every used Corvette needs something. What matters is knowing what you're getting.

Safety note

Don't crawl under a car that isn't properly supported. If the seller won't allow an independent inspection, consider that a red flag.