Why You Should Invest in a Pre-Purchase Inspection

Forrest Gump’s words of wisdom about life being like a box of chocolates are still repeated often because you really don’t always know what you’re going to get. But when you’re shopping for a used car, not knowing what you’ll get isn’t a good thing. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to ensure you’re not buying the car equivalent of bad chocolate.

Whether you buy your new used car through a dealership or a private seller, a simple pre-purchase inspection can alert you to any red flags or issues with your car. This can help you avoid any issues with the car, and as a bonus, you’ll save money on repairs and insurance. Even better is that you can rest easy knowing you’re getting the most bang for your buck.

A pre-purchase is a wise investment regardless of what type of used car you’re buying. A competent mechanic can perform this check for between $100 and $400, which is well worth it—especially if your mechanic catches issues that would cost thousands to repair.

Most dealerships will allow you to take a used car off the lot for a pre-purchase inspection. If you’re dealing with a private seller, this is still important to bring up. In either case, if the seller refuses to allow a pre-purchase inspection, this is probably a sign that something is wrong with the car, and your signal to walk away.

What do pre-purchase inspections include?

The inspection may vary by vehicle and your mechanic, but typically they will examine the following parts:

• Making sure the VINs on engine and chassis match
• Test driving to make sure engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension are roadworthy
• Testing the transmission and drivetrain for leaks
• Ensuring various switches work properly
• Testing power windows and locks
• Examining windows and body for chips, cracks, scratches
• Checking frame and underbody for defects, rust, rot, or other damage
• Checking interior for fading and other wear and tear

If your mechanic finds defects, you may be able to use that information to negotiate a lower price from your seller, unless the damage is serious enough to be a dealbreaker. If the seller tries to discourage you from getting an inspection by severely discounting the price of the car, don’t go through with the deal. This is another sign there’s something seriously wrong with the car.

Be sure to ask around about pre-purchase inspections at local service providers. Private sellers and dealerships may offer their own mechanic, but an objective third party will likely be your best and most honest bet.