How to Check a Car from China Before Paying: Checklist
Most problems are solved at the inspection stage, not after handover. Below is a working check-list.
1. Body photos
- 4 corners + hood + roof, in daylight;
- close-ups of the wheel arches and sills;
- areas under the bumpers and around the glass.
2. Video
A continuous walk-around, engine start, climate control check, opening every door, close-up of the dashboard mileage.
Ask for phone-shot video rather than a professional shoot: it shows real panel gaps and small defects more honestly.
3. Documents
- VIN and matching it against a photo of the plate;
- service history, if any;
- confirmation of legal cleanliness and no encumbrances.
4. Technical condition
- paint thickness by panel;
- tire condition and their production date;
- faults in the control units (diagnostic scanner, screenshot);
- for hybrids and EVs — battery state of health (SOH).
5. What the report must contain
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Notes on scratches | To understand the real condition |
| Interior Photos | To assess wear and the leather/fabric smell |
| Mileage | Check against the history |
| Battery SOH | A key parameter for hybrids/EVs |
Red Flags
- Only stock photos without shooting the actual car.
- Refusal to show the VIN or the plate.
- A price well below market with no reason given.
- No answer on battery SOH.
Conclusion
The check takes 1 day and costs little, but saves months of arguing. Ask for photos, video and a report before the first payment: that is normal, not distrust.
Want a quote for your budget?
We will find 3 options with real photos and calculate the full cost to your city.
