Purchasing a vehicle is likely the second-largest purchase most people make in their lives. A vehicle, like a home, is an expensive and complicated purchase. Numerous parts of the car may require repair.
Some of these factors may also impact the vehicle’s safety. And, because most of us aren’t car experts, hiring a certified automotive technician to thoroughly inspect a used car BEFORE you buy sense.
What is a Pre-Purchase Inspection?
The phrase ‘pre-purchase inspection’ refers to a detailed assessment by a certified or proficient individual to describe a vehicle’s mechanical, cosmetic and safety condition before purchasing. But most pre-purchase inspections are performed by a certified mechanic or automotive technician familiar with the vehicle’s make and model under inspection.
The purpose of the PPI is to reveal existing conditions or maintenance flaws that may pose potential safety or financial issues for the buyer in the future.
Why is it so important?
It’s simple; whenever you buy a used or brand-new car, you need a detailed inspection of specs and other assets. That’s why a pre-purchase vehicle inspection helps you get a better deal. By unveiling the right cost and condition of the car, you can dodge paying too much for a car only to discover you still need to complete costly repairs after the purchase.
What should be inspected in a pre-purchase inspection?
Unfortunately, there is no widely accepted industry standard or schedule for a PPI. The inspection cost generally determines the inspection’s depth and detail. A basic inspection will be mostly visual, involving placing the vehicle on a hydraulic lift and looking for leaks or broken components.
A more exhaustive inspection will include a detailed road test to evaluate components such as steering and brakes. This type of inspection will include a computer engine analysis and checking the engine compression.
What does a pre-purchase inspection include?
A pre-purchase inspection entails much more than simply “kicking the tires.” An automotive technician should thoroughly inspect the vehicle. This procedure can take 45 to 90 minutes and should include the following steps and more:
- Test drive
- Monitor checks
- Computer system readiness monitors
- Dash warning lights and bulbs
- System checks
- Battery and charging
- Electrical
- Exhaust
- Exterior and interior lights
- HVAC
- Ignition
- Radiator and cooling
- Mechanical checks
- Steering linkage
- Suspension components
- Hoses & belts
- Inspection for any fluid leaks
- Maintenance checks
- Tires & brakes
- Glass and windshield wipers/washers
- Fluid levels and condition
Get in Touch with Superior Tire & Auto
Keeping your vehicle in good condition is very important to increase its safety and lifespan. Therefore, it is very important to have an in-depth pre-purchase inspection by professionals.
Superior Tire & Auto is a one-stop auto repair shop that offers repair and maintenance services for a variety of vehicles.