Your eyes are set on buying a used car. But before getting too attached, you want to ensure you’re getting the best value for money. So a thorough inspection service sounds just right. But how do you get started? If you’re not car savvy, as many people are, chances are your safest route would be to hire an expect mechanic for the job. An expert knows what sounds indicate severe problems, hidden defects to look out for and basically everything else about a car’s general stability. Those expert pair of eyes could make all the difference when buying a used car.
Going with your mechanic when visiting the dealership is one way to get started. You may also consider driving the car to an independent diagnostic center. Usually, sellers don’t have any problems allowing customers drive the vehicle out of the lot for independent inspection. You want trust, so if your dealership refuses this request for some reason, you might as well look elsewhere. You ideal pre-purchase inspection service should be comprehensive enough to identify both minor and major problems.
Setting Up a Pre-Purchase Inspection Service For a Used Car
Dealerships can only provide you with as much information they have about a car. So you need to verify these claims. Critically inspect the car for fluid leaks, rusts, bends etc. before hiring the services of a mechanic for a more comprehensive inspection service which will cost you anywhere from $100.
If you have conducted your personal inspection and have ruled out obvious state of disrepair, it’s time to hire a third party. A certified car repair shop is your ideal place to go. If you intend to purchase a relatively older or rare car, it would make more sense to hire a repair shop with the relevant speciality. Place a call to the auto repair shop and agree on time that works for you and the dealership. You may also be required to provide details of the car’s registration number, make and model to get a quote.
Dealer Inspection Reports
Dealerships often provide their own inspection reports to prospective buyers. Still, you want to err on the side of caution by hiring an independent inspection service even if the car comes with a service contract or warranty. Why is this important? Because dealership inspections are usually tailored towards more critical problems that could render a car unsafe for road use. So an all-clear report doesn’t necessarily mean a car is free of potentially costly repairs. You might also see a “certified” mark on used cars on the lot. This usually informs that a car has undergone a more comprehensive inspection service and is up for sale with a warranty. If your intended car is marked “certified,” request the report detailing inspected components and scope of warranty. But remember, this is best considered a complementary report and shouldn’t substitute the need to hire an independent auto inspection service.
Mobile Car Inspection
In the event that you are unable to take the car to an auto shop for inspection, hiring someone to come over to the lot may be your only option. In this case you need a mobile mechanic. Look up online for nearby mobile mechanics, or ask family and trusted colleagues for referrals. Among other things, an expert mechanic will conduct a thorough inspection of the engine, electrical systems, transmission, wheels and suspension system of the car. Following a test drive, they will also be able to tell if there are problems with any critical components and provide a report on the overall state of the car. A mobile inspection service is especially important if the dealership is far from the nearest autoshop. A professional mechanic will take detailed photos of any damage, confirm the general stability of the car and advise you on whether the car makes a good purchase. The inspection report should be handed over directly to you without any input from the seller. A mobile mechanic will likely come to the lot with a few light equipment and tools. So while this service can be fairly quick and convenient, auto diagnostic clinics are your ideal option for a more comprehensive used car inspection service.
Car Repair Shops
If you manage to arrange an inspection service at a car repair shop, all components will be thoroughly examined. This includes the car’s axles, brake cylinders, gas tank, radiator, tires and shock system. Misalignments, bends in the undercarriage, electrical components and tires will also be inspected. Some car repair shops offer a computerized engine inspection that verifies the car’s identification details and service limits.
Since most auto shops provide used-car inspection services, it only makes sense to visit one to ensure a car has a clean bill of health before concluding a purchase. Some dealerships partner with their car manufacturers, so you might as well have their service department conduct the inspection service. You may also take the car to auto inspection service providers with the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) seal or other trusted certifications if you are unable to find a reliable mechanic or specialized service departments at the dealership.
