Though the interior of your car doesn’t influence the way it runs, you will want it to look nice and meet your needs.
Does the driver’s seat have cuts or cracks? Is it badly worn or are all of the flaws hidden beneath a seat cover? Look under seat covers to inspect the seat.
Inspect all the seat belts in the car. Are they working properly? Are the straps damaged?
Check the power windows and locks if the car has them. Power windows should be working smoothly. Do the power locks work? Test them all a couple of times to be sure.
Open all doors with the key. Does it work in all of them?
Check the seat adjustment feature. Does it work smoothly and efficiently?
Open and close the sunroof if the car is equipped with one. Raise it all the way and lower it as well. Make sure it fits properly when in the closed position. Is there a crack where you can see light? If there is, the snow and rain can come into the car and you certainly wouldn’t want to take it through a car wash.
Ask the current owner or the salesperson if the car has an alarm system. If it does, have them demonstrate how it works.
Be sure to check all remote control functions to assure they are working.
You’ve already checked the spare tire, but have another look and while you’re at it, inspect the trunk. Lift the floor mat to detect rust or holes. Does the car have a jack and a wheel wrench? Have these items been taken care of, or are they dirty and rusty?
Does the trunk smell musty? If so, water may be leaking into it. Have a look at the seal around the trunk. Is it in good shape and pliable or is it cracked and hard?
Does the car have wheel locks? If it does, you’ll need the key.
Give the instrument panel a once over. Check signal lights, warning lights and gauges. Do the gauges work? Do warning lights stay on when the car’s engine is started?
Check four-way flashers (hazard lights.) Do they work? Will they work when the car is shut off and while it’s running?
Check both the heater and the air conditioner. Start the car and let the engine warm up. Turn on the air conditioner. You should notice cold air coming from the vents immediately no matter what season it is. To try the heater, be sure the different speeds all work. If damp air emits from the vents, or if you smell ant-freeze and the windows mist, it’s likely the car’s core is leaking. Be sure to check that the rear defroster is also in working order.