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VINBYCAR / FIELD NOTES

Turn a used-car advert into a verification checklist

Replace broad claims with specific questions you can check at the viewing.

Copy the important claims

Save the listing and its date, then extract the equipment that affects your decision. Keep the seller's original wording. Do not add features that you associate with the model but that the listing does not actually claim.

Rewrite vague wording as a question

Turn comfort package into questions about the particular seats or controls you want. Turn advanced parking into questions about cameras, sensors and assistance functions. The aim is not to expand the claim; it is to clarify what the seller means.

Use a status for every item

Mark each entry as described, demonstrated, not demonstrated or unresolved. Keep any relevant photograph beside the correct item and vehicle. If two pieces of information disagree, record the disagreement instead of silently choosing the version you prefer.

Close the loop before deciding

Send the seller a short list of the remaining questions. Ask for direct answers about the individual car, and arrange inspection where a demonstration is insufficient. Keep the final response with your notes. When you compare several vehicles, use the same checklist headings for each. A disciplined list helps you identify what you know and what still needs work without pretending that a well-written advert is a mechanical or historical assessment.