Know the car before it's yours.
Checklists and plain guides for buying and keeping a used vehicle.
Explore guides for:
What is inside
Tools you can use on the lot.
Open on your phone. Follow along. Ask better questions.
- Panel gaps even
- Oil amber, not milky
- Tires worn evenly
- Cold start, no smoke
- TitleClean
- Owners2
- OdometerConsistent
- Accidents1 minor
- Oil and filter70%
- Brake fluid35%
- Timing belt90%
- 38%Fuel27%Upkeep35%Other
How it works
Read. Check. Keep.
- 01Read the guidePick a topic and learn what to look for.
- 02Check the carUse the checklist during a walkaround.
- 03Keep it runningFollow the schedule once it's yours.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is Second Drive Journal a dealer or insurer?
No. We do not sell vehicles or insurance, and we never pass your details to anyone who does.
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No. Every guide is free to read. Subscribing is optional.
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