Some Other Car Safety Inspection Checklist
Brake hoses
All rubber brake hoses must be leak-free and in good condition. Replace any found to be leaking, cracked, or damaged. Likewise, any steel brake hoses found to be leaking or damaged should be replaced with a perfect brake flaring tool.
Exhaust system/muffler
The exhaust system must be tight and leak-free. Check for rusted-out pipes, loose hangers, or cracked muffler connections.
Emergency brake cables
The cables should not be frayed or rubbing against sharp objects under the car.
How To Find A Mechanic To Inspect A Used Car
Are you thinking about buying a used car soon? If so, youre probably aware that some used cars turn out to be lemons. In other words, the car has a lot of hidden damages and issues that make owning it an expensive nightmare.
For this reason, we think its important to learn how to find a mechanic to inspect a used car before you buy it. They can give the car a thorough evaluation to identify any concerning issues.
With this information, you can get a lower price from the seller or demand that they make the necessary repairs. Of course, you can also choose to walk away from the sale.
But how do you find the right mechanic for a pre-purchase car inspection?
Keep reading for everything you need to know.
Check The Honesty And Integrity Of The Mechanic
Be wary of any mechanic that refuses to open the hood or open any part of the car unless you pay him. There are many possible reasons for this.
They could just be leading you to think that they can do the job, or they may not be certified to work on the vehicle. Its also possible that they really dont know how to do anything mechanical, or they may just not have the time to do the proper inspection.
Any mechanic worth their salt should be able to inspect a car charging no extra money. If it doesnt pass the inspection, you should be able to get the car fixed for a reasonable price, usually around the price of a good used car.
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Should I Use The Mechanic My Insurance Recommends
Unfortunately, private sellers aren’t always 100% truthful on the condition of their vehicle. While not common, you should still take necessary precautions, including taking your car to an auto shop your insurance recommends. They have an established working relationship and have garnered the trust of your insurance company to provide the best service possible.
What You Need To Do Pre Purchase Used Car
When you are looking to purchase a used car, there are a few things you need to do in order to ensure that you are getting a good quality vehicle.
The first is to have the car inspected by a mechanic. This will help you to identify any potential problems with the car and determine what repairs may need to be made. When you are in the market for a used car, it is important to do your research and know what to look for. A pre-purchase inspection is key, as is knowing what issues to look for and what to do if you find them.
The second is to have the car accident and maintenance history checked. This will give you an idea of how well the car has been taken care of and whether or not it has been in any accidents. By taking these steps, you can rest assured that you are buying a quality used car that wont need any major repairs right away.
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Where To Find A Used Car Inspection
There are two main types of car inspection services: mobile ones that come to you, or garages where you go to them.
A mobile inspection is convenient, with national services available to book appointments online or over the phone. A certified inspector will visit at the appointed time, scrutinize the vehicle in a driveway or parking lot, and write a report. Here are a few companies to consider:
- AiM Certify: Prices range from $129 to $349 higher-priced plans include an engine and transmission limited guarantee.
- Automobile Inspections: Prices vary depending on vehicle type, but used vehicle inspections range from $199 to $349.
- Lemon Squad: A standard inspection costs $179, with higher-priced plans for exotic, classic and commercial vehicles.
A mobile used car inspection could be the best option if youre buying from a distance and dont know anyone nearby who could take it to their trusted mechanic.
A garage inspection could be done with a mechanic you already know and trust. Benefits of going to a garage include the fact that the mechanic has the equipment necessary to lift a car and inspect its underside. To find a used car inspection site near you, you could visit the following organizations and officials:
TIPbeforefirst
How much does a car inspection cost?
Features That Make Online Car Buying Appealing
Most online car sellers provide three convenient features that speed up the car buying process and attempt to provide buyers with peace of mind:
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A multi-point inspection by the seller.
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A limited warranty.
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A return policy if the buyer doesnt like the car.
These features work together: The inspection provides confidence, and if something was missed you can probably get it fixed under warranty. And the return policy provides a blanket assurance that you’re not stuck with a lemon or even a car you just dont like.
Specifically, Carvana offers a 150-point inspection, a limited warranty for 100 days or 4,189 miles, and a seven-day return policy. CarMax offers a 24-hour test drive before you plunk down any money, then allows a 30-day return window. Like most other online sites, Vroom offers a free Carfax vehicle history report.
The goal is to think of all the pain points in used car buying and solve them for the buyer, says Mark Holthoff, senior editor at Carvana. He adds that the included return policy is something you would never get from a traditional used car dealer.
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The Importance Of Used Car Inspection
When buying a used car, it is important to have it inspected by a professional. A vehicle inspection report will identify any issues with the car and give you an idea of what needs to be fixed. It is also a good idea to have the car inspected before you buy it, so you know what youre getting into.
A used car inspection can cost anywhere from $150 to $250, but its well worth the investment. If there are any major repairs that need to be done, you can negotiate a lower price with the seller or walk away from the sale altogether. By having a used car inspection, you can avoid costly repairs down the road and feel confident that youre buying a reliable vehicle. Before you buy a car, its important to get it inspected. A vehicle inspection is a great way to find out about the vehicles condition and to make sure that you are getting a good deal.
How To Look At A Used Car Like A Mechanic
Approach the purchase of a used vehicle with a critical eye. Analyze the interior and exterior of the vehicle like a mechanic rather than as a prospective buyer. “Before taking off on a test drive, check over for any fluid leaks,” says Miskelley. “Most dealerships clean the engine compartment, but you may find the fluid is low in a particular system.” She then suggests taking the following steps:
Examine the oil dipstick and check the level and condition of the oil. Burnt oil or oil with signs of coolant can be a sign of major issues down the road.
Use a penny to gauge tire condition and tread depth. If you put the penny upside down, it should cover part of Lincoln’s head. If his head is fully exposed, the vehicle needs new tires.
Check tread depth across the entire tire to see if it wears unevenly. Uneven wear on tires can indicate suspension or alignment problems.
Check the vehicle belts for signs of wear.
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What Does A Mechanic Check In A Used Car
Your mechanic will check and assess the condition of the engine, suspension, brakes, tires, coolant level, and lights. These are some of the most important components that will make your car run smoothly.
The mechanic will also watch out for any leaks or visible damage on the exterior part of your car. They will carry out a visual inspection and ensure no visible rust or stains on any metal part of your vehicle. Expect them to also check for scratches on the wheels and wheel covers and dirt marks on wheel arches.
A Full Inspection: Whats Involved
You cant judge a book by its cover, and you cant judge a car by a few kicks to one tire. Our automotive consumer experts recommend a detailed inspection by a mechanic you trust. CAA-Quebec offers all consumers its Maxi Route inspection service. Simply make an appointment and visit one of our 10 Vehicle Inspection Centres.An experienced mechanic will conduct a road test, followed by an inspection of the engine, suspension, brakes, steering and exhaust system. Theyll also check the thickness of the paint to verify whether its original, or whether the car has been repainted after an accident.The expert will also check the onboard computer to assess the true condition of the mechanical systems. You never know: an unscrupulous seller could have shut off the Check Engine light without fixing the problem. A proper inspection will uncover this ploy, and prevent a potential unpleasant surprise. You wouldnt want that perfect new car for spring to become a nightmare on four wheels!
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Why Should You Get A Pre Purchase Inspection
When buying a used car, it is important to have a pre-purchase inspection done. This will ensure that you are not spending your hard-earned money on a car that has hidden problems.
A pre purchase used car inspection should be done by a qualified mechanic. He or she will check the car for any mechanical problems, as well as for any signs of previous damage.
If there are any major problems with the car, the mechanic will be able to tell you about them. He or she may also be able to give you an estimate of how much it will cost to fix these problems.
It is important to remember that a pre purchase used car inspection is not a guarantee that there are no problems with the car. However, it does provide you with some peace of mind knowing that you have had the vehicle checked over by a professional.
Buying From A Distance
Online car-buying sites have given buyers access to thousands of vehicles they might never have found otherwise, but purchasing a car located far away can bring a number of potential problems. These might include out-and-out fraud, payment issues, paperwork difficulties and, critically, the inability to see the vehicle in person before committing to the sale. Here’s where a presale inspection can help.
If you find a car you like in another part of the country, you should, of course, ask to see a lot of close-up photographs and get a vehicle history report. But a professional inspection will provide an important extra level of insurance that you’re not buying a pack of trouble. And arranging an inspection that will take place elsewhere isn’t that difficult.
Obviously, it isn’t a great idea to rely on the seller to choose the person who will perform the inspection. If you know someone in the area where the car is located, you can ask them to recommend a reliable mechanic. Failing that, a dealership that sells that model of vehicle can generally be trusted to provide an accurate assessment. And if you’re the one ordering and paying for the inspection, the report should come directly to you and not through the seller.
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Where Can I Get A Car Inspection
If youre buying the vehicle from a dealer, you can usually have them conduct the car inspection onsite. They should also be open to you taking the vehicle for an inspection by an independent mechanic. As a consumer, its your right to have a PPI, and usually a non-binding offer to purchase and a refundable deposit are considered acceptable pre-conditions to an inspection. If you are getting the inspection done offsite, or youre dealing with a private seller, ideally youll take the vehicle to a mechanic you already have a relationship with. If you dont have a go-to service centre, you can ask the dealership for recommendations. CAA has a list of preferred partners as does the Automobile Protection Agency . The APA also has an inspection form on its website that you can print off and take into the shop.
You can also get in touch with your local Canadian Tire or other auto body shop and theyll walk you through what you need to know.
Questions For The Seller
If someone hires you tohelp inspect a used car thats for sale, you should assist the buyeras much as you can. One of the best ways to do this is by coachingthe buyer to ask these questions. You can also ask these yourself.
- Are you the carsfirst owner?
- Why are youselling?
- Does the vehiclehave any maintenance or repair history on hand?
- What type andbrand of oil do you use?
- When was the lasttime the car had an oil change, and where was it done?
- Have you had thetiming belt replaced? If yes, when?
- Are there anyknown issues, mechanical or otherwise?
- Has the car everbeen in an accident?
- Do you haveanother set of rims with snow tires?
- If your client isasking the questions: My mechanic is here with me, can he inspectthe vehicle? OR I need to bring the car to my mechanic forinspection. Is that alright?
- If youre askingthe questions: Im a mechanic. Is it OK if I inspect your car?
If you feel that the seller isnt forthcoming about vehicle ownership, remember that you can look up the owner by searching the VIN number.
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Read The Window Sticker
The Federal Trade Commission requires dealers to post a Buyers Guide in every used vehicle offered for sale. Usually attached to a window, it must contain certain information, including whether the vehicle is being sold as is or with a warranty, and what percentage of repair costs the dealer is obligated to pay. The guide information overrides any contrary provisions in your sales contract. In other words, if the guide says that the vehicle is covered by a warranty, the dealer must honor that warranty. If any changes in coverage are negotiated, the guide must be altered to reflect them before the sale.
If a sale is designated as is, it means the dealer makes no guarantees as to the condition of the vehicle, so any problems that arise after you have made the purchase will be your responsibility. Many states do not allow as-is sales on vehicles selling for more than a certain price.
Check And Maintain The Tie
Tie-rods should have no visible looseness. If rocking the steering wheel or tire causes the joint to wobble, the tie-rod end should be replaced. On rack & pinion steering, the inner tie-rods are enclosed in protective rubber boots.
The boots must be replaced if theyre cracked or split to protect the steering gear against dirt and moisture. You can feel for looseness in the inner tie-rod sockets by squeezing the boots while someone rocks the steering wheel or tire for you. Again, there should be no looseness.
Note: If you feel fluid inside the boots, it means your power steering system is leaking, and the steering gear may soon need replacement.
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What Does The Ppi Cover
There isnt an industry-standard procedure when it comes to pre-purchase inspections and every shop could have a different process. However, the following areas of the car are typically checked:
- Exterior Surfaces
In addition to checking these areas of the car, the mechanic will typically take the car on a test drive to ensure that its running properly and see if there are any other obvious issues. The inspection itself could take an hour or so, but it could be longer.
How To Get Car Inspected For Plugs And Caps
Distributor cap: The cap should be free from cracks or other signs of electrical arcing or deterioration. Inside, it should be clean and dry, and the terminal contacts in good condition.
Spark plug wires: Terminals should fit into the distributor cap tightly, and boots should fit around the spark plugs snugly. The wires must be free of visible damage, chafing, or burn spots.
Arcing is most easily detected by observing the plug wires while the engine is running outdoors after dark.
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Changing Motor Oil Regularly
Motor oil should be changed regularly, not because it wears out or because it becomes dirty, but primarily because the protective additives in it are mostly depleted after 3000 to 4000 miles of driving.
Once theyre gone, wear accelerates quickly. As for the oil filter, most mechanics think it is a false economy to run clean oil through a dirty filter. Therefore, they recommend a new filter at every oil change.
The Vital Prepurchase Inspection
Experts agree that used cars must be inspected by a qualified specialist before the final negotiation for purchase. The ordinary car buyer, even if mechanically savvy, really can’t do it justice. A thorough, professional inspection can tell you whether you’re about to buy a peach or a lemon.
You should try to have the inspection performed by a mechanic with whom you’ve already built a relationship. And ideally, the inspection should include a test drive over a route that includes hills, bumps and potholes to reveal suspension problems and engine performance issues. Having a third party inspect and test the vehicle establishes trust and increases your familiarity with the car. Sure, there’s a ton of information available on the web about every model, but what you need at this juncture is detailed information about this particular car. A professional inspection will tell you both what might be wrong with this vehicle and also what’s right with it.
Smart sellers, too, know the value of a presale inspection. Having the car thoroughly scrutinized by a reliable third party before listing it provides an additional selling point in the form of a written report. While this is useful information and lends credibility to the seller, you should still insist on getting your own independent inspection before making the purchase.
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