Auto Inspections

When buying a used car, whether off the lot or from a private buyer, you want to make sure it’s going to provide the value the seller is asking. We recommend that you always bring in a used vehicle and for a nominal fee, we will provide a full vehicle inspection and an estimate for any recommended repairs

Your Safety is First

We will inspect the vehicle for wear and for anything that could impact your safety – including the horn, windshield wipers, rear view mirror, steering, seat belts, brakes (system and parking), tires, wheel assembly, and all the light and signals.

We look at items that might be issues if they are worn or in need of urgent repair, - including the exhaust system, exhaust emission system, engine, transmission, and suspension. We check the interior and exterior.

Flaws May Affect Asking Price

If parts are old, you may be able to take that information to the seller and negotiate a different price. We will be able to identify worn parts or event parts that may need urgent replacement. In addition to the physical inspection, we run the computer diagnostics, in which we basically ask the on board computer what it knows about its state and any recent events that may shed light on the vehicles condition.

Other Tips for Buying a Used Car

Be aware of the vehicle identification number (VIN) and get a free VIN check to make sure the car was not reported stolen or totaled. Make sure window tinting is legal for your area. 

In addition to the inspection of the vehicle itself, be sure to ask for paperwork. A car owner must show a valid driver's license, proof of insurance and a current vehicle registration to comply with ownership and insurance laws. Other good ideas:

• Review the maintenance history
• Walk away if the seller objects to your inspection
• Don't feel pressured to rush an inspection
• Are any flaws accounted for in the asking price?
• Ask for the vehicle’s manual if not located in the glove compartment
• Look for instructions included for any accessories
• Be advised that it is the seller's responsibility to Smog the vehicle