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Originally Posted by HULK_BA
If they can't be bothered washing it I'd bet they missed the maintenence servicing over time as well. Otherwise they are trying to hide the dings and hail damage by not washing.
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That's usually the first impression I get as well. Also pays to notice the premises the car is parked at for a basic indication of what kind of family they are. Smokers trays out front, kids toys, smell, condition of the front yard and things like that can answer the condition of the car to some extent. Just coz they washed it once for sale doesnt mean its in good order too. I guess a personal list to tick off when doing an initial inspection is required when buying private too.
I tend to check out the paint quality first off. Mainly to see any swirl marks, tree sap, bird poo stains and anything else that tells me where it gets parked or has been parked in its day to day life. Then look at the condition of the seats, stains on the carpet, rips and tears on the stitching, marks on the trim etc.
Under the bonnet, this can be taken a few ways, if its been steam cleaned, it sometimes is done to hide oil stains, leaks and anything else they can. Some discretion is advised if this is the case. Sometimes a slightly dusty, but relatively untouched engine bay can reveal any potential issues a car may or may not have. A independent vehicle inspection can uncover most hidden anomalies a seller is hiding. Sure a cost on the buyers part, but small price to pay for some peace of mind.