1. USE DAYLIGHT.
Inspect the car in natural light as it provides the best light for you to catch any scratches and dents. Be leery if the seller insists you inspect the car in the evening or under florescent light.

2. RUST.
Look for rust spots on the car...especially under the hood in the engine bay, under the car, and on the inside of the doors.

3. TAXES.
Dealers charge all taxes (federal and state/provincial) whereas private sellers only charge provincial/state tax.

4. LISTEN CAREFULLY.
Listen for unusual noises during driving and idling.

5. ACCURATE INFORMATION.
Check the title to make sure all details are accurate: VIN number of the car, date and model of the vehicle, name of the person selling you the car is the same person shown as the owner on it's title.

6. CHECK FOR PAINT.
Lift the hood and open the car doors to look for paint that is in places it shouldn't be. Excess paint in these areas is a sign that the car has been repainted and thus has probably been in an accident.

7. DO A HISTORY CHECK.
Run the VIN number through a car verification service such as CarFax to locate hidden problems with the vehicle such as, whether it's been in an accident before or whether the odometer has been rolled back.

8. TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS
If you just don't feel right about the car or the person selling it to you, follow your instincts.