What is a pre purchase car inspection?
A pre-purchase car inspection is a check carried out by a mechanic before you buy a used car. It aims to verify that there aren’t any hidden issues with it. Before signing the paperwork and paying the seller, we recommend reaching out to a mechanic to inspect the vehicle.
Getting a pre-purchase assessment before buying will help you check you’re making a good investment. During your used car inspection, the mechanic will check all of the main components of the car to make sure that everything is in good order.
Finding a mechanic to do a car inspection service before buying will not only give you peace of mind and potentially save you from some big headaches later on. But it can also save you money. In the event that they spot an issue, you may be able to negotiate a better overall price if you decide you still want to go through with the sale.
What is included in a pre purchase car inspection?
The main goal of a used car inspection is to discover any potential issues with the current condition of the vehicle. Normally, the mechanic will come to the car’s location to inspect the car and they’ll also conduct a short road test (with the permission of the seller).
On top of that, the mechanic will check for potential structural, safety and fraud issues. Some detailed examples of what a mechanic usually checks for include.
- Odometer accuracy — is the displayed mileage correct?
- Condition of brakes
- Fluid levels
- Hidden body damage
- Onboard computer system tampering — did someone delete any diagnostic error codes?
- Powertrain condition — this system of components is responsible for transferring the power generated by your engine to the tyres
- Suspension condition
Common types of pre purchase car inspection
Many garages offer different types of pre-purchase car inspections. The different types are usually based on the level of detail the mechanic will go into and how many different components they will examine. The level of thoroughness associated with each service is normally very easy to identify as they tend to have names like basic, standard or premium.More detailed checks that are often part of more comprehensive packages include:
- Electrical controls
- Engine
- Tyres
- Interior controls
- Bodywork inspection
- Fuel system check
- Interior condition evaluation
- Water pump inspection
- Full break examination — including discs and pads
- Pictures to document the current condition of the vehicle
- Consultation with the mechanic after the inspection
- Exhaust system check
- Being on the lookout for hidden damage
- Verifying that the odometer and computer systems have not been tampered with
- Checking that maintenance records and reported vehicle history are accurate
Why have a pre purchase car inspection?
In most cases, a pre-purchase car inspection isn’t required. However, just because it isn’t a legal requirement, that doesn’t mean it’s not a good idea. Getting a used car inspection can make you aware of any potential issues before you commit to buying a car. This gives you a chance to pull out of a dodgy car sale. It may also help you to negotiate a better purchase price if you know there is some maintenance work that will need to be done immediately after you buy it.
We recommend getting a pre-purchase inspection done every time you consider buying a used car from a private seller. Usually, when buying directly from a private seller, you won’t get any warranties and are buying the car ‘as is’. If you’re buying from a franchised dealer or directly from a branded dealership, on the other hand, getting a pre-purchase car inspection may not be as necessary. While it’s still useful to give you peace of mind, it’s likely the dealer will have already done a comprehensive check at their end. So, you may feel comfortable just asking them what checks they have already carried out.
What impacts the cost of a used car inspection?
There are several factors that can influence the cost of a used car inspection. Some of the most common are:
- Location. Depending on where the car is located, labour costs may be more expensive.
- Car age. If it’s an older car, there may be more to consider during the inspection.
- Car make. Depending on whether the car is an imported or domestic make, there may be more to check. Plus, if it’s an exotic or speciality car, you may need a more specialised mechanic.
- Level of detail you want the mechanic to go into. A basic check will cost less than a more comprehensive service.
Contact us for more Information +91-9611250126
Our Working Process
Request Quote
Get a quote on your next car repair service by filling out our form.
Bring Your Vehicle
Bring your car to our GM Motors and leave it with our Trained Technician.
Get It Repaired
Proven Results for Setting Exceptional Standards. Same day service for most repairs.
