Finding the right used car can be hard. The Used Subaru Inspection Checklist 2025 is here to help. This article will show you how to check a Subaru before buying it. Get ready for some great tips!
Key Takeaways
Check a used Subaru for hidden problems like leaks, rust, and frame damage. This saves you from big costs later.
Use tools and a detailed checklist to inspect every part of the car. Know the model history and common issues.
Look at tires, lights, interior features, engine health, fluid levels, battery condition during inspection.
Test drive the Subaru to listen for engine noises and test brakes, steering, and gear shifting.
Explore financing options at Tom Tepe Autocenter to buy your next Subaru with peace of mind.
Why Inspecting a Used Subaru is Important in 2025
Inspecting a used Subaru is key in 2025 because it shows any hidden problems. This step stops big repair bills in the future. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter knows cars can seem perfect but might have issues like frame damage or leaks.
We also check if the car was in accidents to make sure it's safe.
A good look under the hood tells us about engine health and if there are any oil or coolant leaks. We don't want you to face surprises after buying a Subaru from us. Testing how it drives gives clues about engine, brakes, and steering.
At our dealership, we aim to give you a reliable car that makes driving enjoyable without worry.
Preparing for the Inspection
Getting ready for an inspection means being thorough. You need the right tools and knowledge about the Subaru you're eyeing. My team at Tom Tepe Autocenter always starts with these steps to ensure no detail is missed.
This approach sets us up for a successful check on any used Subaru, making sure it meets our high standards before we recommend it to you.
Gather tools and inspection checklist
Before inspecting a used Subaru, you need the right tools and a detailed checklist. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter has created a comprehensive 152 Point Inspection checklist that covers every important part of the vehicle.
This includes areas under the hood, inside the car, and its exterior. For your inspection, bring tools like a flashlight to see into dark spaces, a tire gauge to check tire pressure, and gloves for safety. A prepared shopper is our best customer.
This checklist guides you through checking fluid levels such as engine oil and coolant, ensuring there are no leaks or damage in the engine block. It also helps you examine brake calipers, power steering functionality, and windshield wiper efficiency.
Having this list means you won’t miss critical assessment points during your inspection process.
Research the Subaru model history
Learning about the Subaru model history is key. Each model, like the Crosstrek, Ascent, Impreza, or Outback, has unique features and common issues. For example, older models might have head gasket problems.
Knowing this helps avoid costly repairs later. Check how past recalls or updates affect the model you want.
Next up, check each car's history for accidents or major repairs. Use tools like vehicle history reports from trusted sources. This step can reveal if a car had shoddy repair work or was not maintained well.
After learning about the Subaru's past, move to examining its outside condition carefully.
Exterior Inspection Checklist
When sizing up a used Subaru, the exterior tells its own story. It's crucial to look beyond the surface for signs of deeper issues like rust or misaligned panels that could spell trouble down the road.
Check for rust, dents, and scratches
Checking for rust, dents, and scratches is key when looking at a used Subaru. Rust can hide in corners or under the car. Look closely. If you see rust, it means the car may have more unseen problems.
Dents and scratches tell a story too. They might just be from normal use or they could hint at past accidents.
Paint mismatches are another sign to watch for. They often mean the car had repairs after an accident. Matching paint colors perfectly is hard. So differences in color can show where work was done.
At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we help you spot these signs early on your search for a good used Subaru.
Inspect tires for wear and alignment
At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we stress the importance of checking tires for wear and alignment during an inspection. Tires are your Subaru's only contact with the road, so their condition is critical for safety and performance.
Look at the tire pressure and tread depth to ensure they meet safety standards. Bald tires or those with uneven wear can signal alignment issues, affecting how well your car handles on Midwest roads.
Measure wheel alignment to prevent faster tire wear and keep your Subaru driving straight. Our team uses special tools to check this during a vehicle lift inspection. Misaligned wheels can lead to poor handling and increase fuel consumption.
Proper tire maintenance is key to extending the life of your Subaru.
Examine headlights, taillights, and signals
Check the car's headlights, taillights, and signals. This step ensures they work right and are safe to use on the road. Look at fog lamps, turn signals, parking lamps, license plate lamps, brake/high mount stop lamps too.
Also check reverse lamps and headlamps. Test the fuel filler cap operation.
Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter makes sure every light works well in our used Subarus. We replace any broken bulbs or fix wiring problems before you see the car. Safety is key for us and our customers.
You can trust that lights and signals will work when you drive off our lot.
Interior Inspection Checklist
Inside the cabin of a Subaru, every control, button, and electronic feature should work flawlessly. Seat fabrics and carpets must be free from damage while heating and AC systems need to perform well in any weather.
This checklist ensures you're not surprised by hidden issues after your purchase. Discover more on how Tom Tepe Autocenter can guide you through your next vehicle exploration with confidence.
Test all controls, buttons, and electronics
Examine each button, control, and electronic feature thoroughly. This includes the ignition key chime and all dashboard warning lights to ensure they illuminate as anticipated. Do not overlook the rear defroster, windshield wipers and washers, headlight adjuster, emergency indicators, clutch operation, brake pedal response, and seat adjustments.
As well, it's important to assess the performance of the heated seats and mirrors during those chilly Midwest winters.
A Subaru in excellent condition should have all electronics operating seamlessly - from the power outlets to the trunk opener.
Ensure that each function performs its designated role correctly. Test out the power outlets and lighter as well. Evaluate whether you can open the trunk with a simple button press or lever pull from the inside.
Sound the horn to ensure it's audible and distinct. Finally, make certain that you can easily reach your fuel tank without difficulty by testing the fuel filler opener.
Check upholstery and carpets for damage
Look at the seats, dash, headliner, visors, and carpets closely. If you see tears or stains, it tells you about the car's past care. Check under floor mats too. This step matters for safety and function.
Our team focuses on 23 items like these to ensure every used Subaru meets high standards.
See if seat upholstery and trim are in good shape. Damage here can lower a car's value fast.
We want your next Subaru to be perfect inside and out. At Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country, we help find cars that pass our thorough checks with flying colors.
Ensure proper functioning of heating and AC
Checking the heating and air conditioning (AC) in a used Subaru is crucial. This ensures your comfort in all seasons. Regular AC service keeps energy use low and maintains good air quality inside the car.
For the heating and AC, our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter will inspect electrical parts and safety features closely. We make sure everything works as it should for your peace of mind.
Our experts also look for common issues that might affect these systems over time. We want you to be confident in your Subaru's ability to keep you warm or cool, no matter the weather outside.
Trust us at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country to take care of this important step during your next vehicle inspection.
Under the Hood Inspection
Under the hood, a thorough inspection is key to finding a great used Subaru. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter always checks the engine for any signs of leaks or damage, ensuring everything is in top shape before you make your purchase.
Inspect the engine for leaks or damage
Check the engine carefully for any signs of leaks or damage. This includes looking at radiator, hoses, and clamps. You should also see if the air filter and oil filter need replacing.
Make sure to check coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, clutch fluid, and windshield washer fluid levels. If you spot any leaks or parts that look damaged, it could mean big problems down the road.
At Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country, we believe a thorough under-the-hood inspection is key to finding a reliable used Subaru.
Inspecting these parts can save you from future headaches with your vehicle. It's an important step in making sure the car will run smoothly for years to come.
Check the oil, coolant, and other fluid levels
At Tom Tepe Autocenter, our team always advises looking at essential fluids in a used Subaru. This step is easy but very important. First, pull out the dipstick to see the oil level.
It should be between the marks and have a clear look, not dark or gritty. Dark oil might mean it's old and needs changing. Also, check the coolant in the radiator. Make sure the car is cool first! The coolant should fill to the top or within an inch of it.
Next, examine other fluids like windshield washer fluid and power steering fluid. Each has its own mark for fullness on their containers. These simple checks can tell you a lot about a car’s condition without needing any tools.
Look for corrosion on battery terminals
Checking the battery terminals for corrosion is a key part of inspecting any used Subaru. Corrosion can lead to poor connections and trouble starting the vehicle. Clean these areas if you see any white or green buildup.
it makes sure your car runs smoothly without electrical issues.
At our dealership, we stress the importance of clean battery connections. This includes checking specific gravity and electrolyte levels, along with a load test. We also clean mounting cables and straps, ensuring everything under the hood is in top shape for our customers.
Trust us to catch and fix any small issue before it becomes big trouble.
Test Drive Evaluation
When you take a Subaru for a test drive, it's critical to focus on how the car runs. Listen for odd noises from the engine and feel how smoothly it shifts gears. This step lets you experience the car's performance first-hand.
At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we make sure every Subaru meets our high standards before you take it home.
Pay attention to engine performance and noises
During the test drive, listen to how the engine sounds. A healthy engine should run smoothly without loud noises. If you hear strange sounds like knocking or hissing, these could be signs of problems.
Also, watch how the car shifts between gears. Whether it has an automatic gearbox or manual transmission with a clutch, shifting should be easy and quiet.
Notice if there are weird smells during startup or while driving. Exhaust smoke that's blue or white can mean serious issues like a blown head gasket which is costly to fix. We at Tom Tepe Autocenter make sure every Subaru meets high standards before it hits our lot because we want you to have peace of mind with your purchase.
Test brakes, acceleration, and steering responsiveness
At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we stress the importance of testing a used Subaru's brakes, acceleration, and how well it responds when you steer. This part of your test drive tells you if the car can stop quickly, speed up smoothly, and handle turns with ease.
Make sure the brake pedal feels firm and stops the car without pulling to one side. When speeding up, it should do so evenly without strange noises or hesitation. Turning the wheel should be easy and precise, without any loose feeling.
A solid test drive covers not just how a car rides but also tests its safety features like brakes and steering.
Our team ensures every vehicle meets our high standards for performance. We know these checks are key for safety on Ohio’s roads or anywhere in Indiana and Kentucky. If something doesn't feel right during this phase of inspection, it could mean expensive repairs down the line.
Trust us at Tom Tepe Autocenter to guide you through finding a Subaru that is not only fun to drive but reliable too.
Assess transmission smoothness
During your test drive, focus on how the car shifts gears. It should be smooth and quiet. Every shift, whether in automatic gearboxes or otherwise, must feel seamless. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter knows this is a key sign of a well-maintained Subaru.
If you hear noises or feel jerks when changing gears, there could be an issue. This might mean more than just a minor fix. We've seen how vital this step is for ensuring the vehicle's health and your satisfaction with your purchase from our lot at Car Country.
Explore Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country Options
At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we offer various financing solutions to meet your needs when you decide on your next Subaru. Our goal is to make the process easy and tailored to fit your situation, ensuring you drive away with peace of mind and a great deal.
Feel free to visit us for more details on how we can help you secure your vehicle future.
Financing Options for Your Next Subaru
Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country present financial arrangements for all prospective vehicle owners, irrespective of their credit past. Our personnel strive to discover an approach that suits your fiscal plans.
You can secure finance for your upcoming Subaru purchase with us. We appreciate that vehicle acquisition is substantial, hence we streamline the process.
Our financial professionals will provide counsel at each milestone. They will clarify how you can exchange your previous vehicle and apply that worth towards a fresh one. In this fashion, you economize initially and reduce your periodic remittances.
Allow us to facilitate your aspiration of possessing a Subaru become reality devoid of financial apprehension.
Evaluating Your Trade-In with Tom Tepe Autocenter
After considering your financing options for a Subaru, think about trading in your current car at Tom Tepe Autocenter. We make this easy and clear. Use Subaru's Online Estimator to get a starting price based on your vehicle identification number (VIN) and details about your car.
Bring the title, proof of insurance, and maintenance records when you visit us.
Our team looks closely at these documents to give you a fair trade-in value. This helps you save on taxes while getting into your next Subaru with less hassle. We aim to provide a deal that benefits everyone involved, making sure you leave feeling good about your decision.
Conclusion
Checking a used Subaru thoroughly in 2025 is key. We covered every important step, from exterior and interior checks to test drives. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country understands cars deeply.
We aim to make your next car purchase smooth and confident. Visit us for trustworthy advice and exciting options on your future Subaru journey.
FAQs
1. What are the most critical areas to inspect on a used Subaru before purchase?
When inspecting a used Subaru, focus particularly on the engine, transmission, and the vehicle's exterior condition. Check for signs of leaks, damage, and ensure all fluids are at appropriate levels. Inspect the car's body for rust, dents, and paint mismatches, which might indicate past accidents.
2. What steps are involved in the 152 Point Inspection at Tom Tepe Autocenter?
The 152 Point Inspection at our center includes a thorough check of the car's interior, exterior, and mechanical components. We assess everything from the engine and transmission to the upholstery and electronics to ensure that each part meets our high standards.
3. How does Tom Tepe Autocenter ensure the reliability of its used Subarus?
At Tom Tepe Autocenter, every used Subaru undergoes a comprehensive inspection and any necessary repairs before it becomes available for purchase. We verify the vehicle's history, perform a detailed 152 Point Inspection, and address any issues to ensure it meets our standards for quality and reliability.
4. Can I trade in my current vehicle when purchasing a used Subaru at Tom Tepe Autocenter?
Absolutely! We offer competitive trade-in values and make the process straightforward. Just bring your vehicle along with its title, proof of insurance, and maintenance records. We'll evaluate it and provide you with a fair trade-in value that can be applied towards the purchase of a used Subaru.
5. What financing options are available for purchasing a used Subaru at Tom Tepe Autocenter?
We offer a variety of financing options to suit different budgets and credit histories. Our financial experts work with you to find the best plan, whether you're buying your first Subaru or upgrading to a newer model. We ensure the financing process is clear, straightforward, and tailored to your financial situation.
Harry Tepe, Owner and Dealer Principal, Tom Tepe Autocenter
Harry Tepe is a seasoned automotive expert and the owner of Tom Tepe Autocenter, a leading vehicle dealership serving the Midwest states of Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. With a lifelong passion for automobiles.
Over the years, Harry worked his way up through various roles, absorbing valuable insights into sales management and dealership operations until he became the youngest GM Dealer Principal and owner of Tom Tepe Autocenter, expanding the business to include multiple locations and a standalone reconditioning center.
Under Harry's leadership, Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country in Aurora and Harrison, Ohio, have grown exponentially, selling over 2000 vehicles annually and generating over $50 million in revenue. His active involvement in the industry is further evidenced by his participation in the NADA 20 Group and his influential role on the Board of Directors for the Indiana Auto Dealers Association, even serving as its President in 2016.
Harry's journey embodies the essence of expertise, authority, and trustworthiness. His insights and experiences are not just stories of personal growth and business success; they are testaments to his deep understanding of and commitment to the automotive industry.
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