Avoid expensive surprises—here are the five most important things to inspect before you buy that project car.
Buying a project car is exciting—you’re not just picking up an old vehicle, you’re taking on a piece of history and a new adventure. But enthusiasm can make it easy to overlook details that will cost you later. Before you hand over the cash, slow down and give the car a proper inspection. Here are the five big things to check:
1. Rust (and Not Just the Obvious Kind)
Rust is the number-one project car killer. A little surface rust is no big deal, but structural rust is a different story. Check the frame, floor pans, rocker panels, trunk, and around the wheel wells. If you can see daylight through a panel where there shouldn’t be, you’re looking at serious repair costs. Remember: metal work is always more expensive and time-consuming than mechanical work.
2. Title and Paperwork
No matter how good the car looks, it’s worthless if you can’t legally put it on the road. Make sure the title is clear, matches the VIN, and isn’t marked “salvage” or “parts only” unless you’re fine with that. If paperwork is missing, getting the car registered can be a nightmare depending on your state. Always verify the legal side before falling in love with the car.
3. Engine and Drivetrain Condition
Even if you’re planning a full rebuild, it helps to know what you’re starting with. Does the engine turn over, or is it locked up? Are the fluids full and relatively clean? Look for leaks around the engine, transmission, and differential. Pull the dipstick—if it smells burned or looks like a milkshake, that’s a warning sign. A running engine isn’t required, but it can save you time and money.
4. Missing Parts (Trim, Glass, and Interior)
Mechanical parts are usually easier to find than trim or body pieces. Missing glass, interior panels, or chrome trim can take months of hunting and a chunk of your budget. Do a walk-around and note anything that’s missing or obviously broken. Small details add up fast, so the more complete the car is, the better.
5. Paint and Bodywork
Paint may look like the least of your concerns, but a bad paint job can hide a lot of sins. Look closely for bubbling under the paint, mismatched panels, or waves that suggest heavy bondo use. Fresh paint isn’t always a plus—it could mean the seller is covering up rust or damage. When in doubt, bring a magnet; it won’t stick to thick filler.
Final Thoughts
Every project car will need work—that’s part of the fun. But checking these five areas up front will save you from biting off more than you can chew. The goal isn’t to find a perfect car, but one that matches your budget, skills, and patience. If it passes these checks (or you’re comfortable tackling what it fails), then congratulations—you just found your next project.