Pre-Purchase Inspection

Comprehensive pre-purchase inspection of a 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV electric vehicle to assess mechanical condition, battery health, electrical systems, and identify potential issues before purchase.

Warnings

Tools required

Preparation

1. Verify vehicle history report for accidents, title issues, and service records
2. Ensure vehicle is parked on level ground in a well-lit area
3. Confirm 12V auxiliary battery is charged and vehicle can power on
4. Have owner demonstrate all electronic features and charging capability if possible
5. Allow vehicle to sit for at least 2 hours before inspection to check for fluid leaks

Procedure

1. 1

   Exterior and body inspection
   Walk around vehicle checking for collision damage, panel gaps, paint inconsistencies, and body alignment. Check all glass for cracks or chips. Inspect all lighting (headlights, taillights, turn signals, brake lights). Check condition of charging port door and inspect charging port contacts for corrosion, burning, or damage. Measure paint thickness if gauge available to detect prior bodywork.
2. 2

   Tire and wheel inspection
   Check all four tires for tread depth (minimum 4/32 inch recommended), uneven wear patterns, sidewall damage, age date codes, and proper tire size (P235/50R18). Inspect wheels for curb rash, bends, or cracks. Verify tire pressures match door placard specification (39 PSI front and rear typical). Check for proper wheel fastener condition and signs of impact damage.
3. 3

   Undercarriage inspection
   Raise vehicle on lift or jack stands supporting at proper lift points. Inspect undercarriage for damage to battery pack protective shield, suspension components, and underbody panels. Check for fluid leaks around brake lines, coolant hoses, and reducer (transmission) unit. Inspect CV axle boots for tears or grease leakage. Examine suspension bushings, control arms, and subframe for damage or excessive wear. Check exhaust vents and battery cooling system components for damage.
4. 4

   Brake system inspection
   Inspect brake rotors for scoring, rust, or excessive wear. Measure rotor thickness if possible. Check brake pads through wheel spokes or remove wheels - front pads should have minimum 3mm, rear minimum 2mm remaining. Due to regenerative braking, rear brakes may show more wear. Inspect brake calipers for leaks, corrosion, or seized pistons. Check brake fluid level in reservoir and inspect fluid color (should be clear to light amber, not dark brown). Test brake pedal feel for firmness.
5. 5

   High-voltage battery and thermal system inspection
   Visually inspect high-voltage battery pack from underneath for damage, dents, or signs of impact. Check battery coolant reservoir level (orange coolant, DEX-COOL) near front of engine bay. Look for coolant leaks around battery thermal management system hoses and connections. Check for any warning messages related to battery or propulsion system. Note any unusual odors that might indicate battery thermal events. Verify battery pack shield bolts are present and secure.
6. 6

   12V auxiliary battery and electrical system check
   Locate 12V auxiliary battery in engine compartment. Check battery terminals for corrosion, proper connection, and cable condition. Test 12V battery voltage (should be 12.4-12.6V with vehicle off). Load test battery if equipment available. Check all interior lights, power windows, door locks, mirrors, infotainment system, climate control, and accessory functions. Test key fob functions and verify all remotes are present.
7. 7

   OBD-II diagnostic scan
   Connect OBD-II scanner with EV capability to diagnostic port. Retrieve all diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from all modules including battery management system, propulsion control, ABS, airbag, and body control modules. Record all current and pending codes. Check for available data on battery state of health (SOH), usable capacity, cell voltage balance, and total charge cycles if scanner supports these parameters. Check for recall campaigns and software update status.
8. 8

   Drive unit and reducer inspection
   Inspect electric drive unit (motor) and single-speed reducer (transmission) for leaks of ATF fluid (Dexron VI, capacity 13.5 qt). Check reducer vent and fill plug areas for seepage. Inspect drive unit mounting points and motor mounts for damage or separation. Check for unusual noises from drive unit area when vehicle is powered on. Verify proper operation of park pawl by confirming vehicle holds in Park on incline.
9. 9

   Cooling system and fluid inspection
   Check coolant level in overflow reservoir (should contain orange DEX-COOL, capacity 10 qt total). Inspect coolant condition and color - should be bright orange, not rusty or contaminated. Check all visible coolant hoses for cracks, bulges, or leaks. Inspect radiator and condenser for damage or blockage. Check washer fluid level (capacity 3.5 qt). Verify no mixing of coolants or incorrect fluid types.
10. 10

    Interior inspection
    Check all seats for wear, stains, and proper operation of adjustments. Test all seatbelts for proper retraction and locking. Inspect carpet and headliner for water stains indicating leaks. Check HVAC system operation in all modes including heat, AC, and defrost. Verify infotainment system boots properly and all features function. Check instrument cluster for warning lights and proper display operation. Test all USB ports and wireless charging pad if equipped.
11. 11

    Road test evaluation
    Perform test drive on varied roads if possible. Listen for unusual noises from suspension, steering, or drive unit. Test acceleration smoothly - should be linear without hesitation or jerking. Verify regenerative braking functions properly in all modes (L gear and paddle). Test friction brakes for even stopping without pulsation or pulling. Check steering for proper centering, no excessive play, and smooth operation. Monitor for any warning messages. Verify climate control maintains temperature. Test lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise, and other safety features if equipped.
12. 12

    Charging system verification
    If possible, connect to Level 1 (120V) or Level 2 (240V) charger and verify vehicle accepts charge. Check charging indicator lights and dashboard displays show proper charging status. Listen for cooling fan operation during charging. Verify onboard charger functions without error messages. Check DC fast charging capability if access to DCFC station available. Confirm charge port door opens and closes properly and latch functions correctly.

Reassembly

1. Lower vehicle from jack stands if raised and torque lug nuts to specification if wheels were removed
2. Ensure all fluid reservoir caps are properly secured
3. Clear any diagnostic trouble codes that were determined to be false or resolved
4. Return all seats, mirrors, and settings to original position

Verification

• Review all documented findings and prioritize any safety-critical issues
• Verify no warning lights remain illuminated on instrument cluster
• Confirm battery state of health percentage if available (over 90% is good for 2023 model)
• Check that all features tested are functioning as designed
• Compile inspection report with recommendations for repairs or negotiations
• Verify any open recalls are documented and plan for dealer service
• Confirm estimated range display is reasonable for battery capacity (247 miles EPA rated when new)

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