Services
Pre & Post Purchase Inspections
If you do not purchase new vehicles, a pre-purchase inspection is absolutely essential. Apart from regular oil and filter services, nothing has the potential to save you more money in the long term. We recommend it before purchasing any vehicle that is not being sold under the manufacturer’s “Pre-Owned Certified” plan.* One of the most difficult parts of our job is explaining to a client that they were overcharged, sold an unsafe vehicle, or otherwise taken advantage of. Sadly, when we inspect vehicles that have already been purchased, the majority need at least $1000 in maintenance and repairs. Reviewing the Carfax Vehicle History Report is also highly recommended. Any reputable dealer should have access to the report—which includes title, registration, emissions and collision repair histories. Reports can be purchased on the Carfax website for vehicles being sold by a private party.
Our pre-purchase inspection is very similar to the detailed inspection performed by dealers during the manufacturer’s pre-owned certification process. A post-purchase inspection is essentially the same, but performed after the vehicle has been purchased. For vehicles that have already been purchased, we can also perform a Full Vehicle Inspection at a lower cost. It is similar to the inspection we include with each regular service visit). Once we have completed our inspections, a list of needed services, repairs and potential upcoming expenses will be provided to the prospective buyer—along with any other relevant information.
In addition to the Full Vehicle Inspection, Pre or Post Purchase inspections include:
- Complete Exterior Inspection – Inspect for collision damage, prior collision repairs, cosmetic issues, missing or broken parts, and proper operation of doors, hood, etc.
- Complete Interior Inspection – Confirm that the spare tire, tools, interior trim and restraints are present (and in working order).
- Functional Test of Vehicle Systems – Confirm that the warning lights, controls, infotainment functions, seat controls, switches and other items are in working order.
- Extended Road Test – Drive the vehicle at a variety of speeds, while inspecting the operation of the engine, transmission, driveline, brakes, suspension and steering.
- Techstream Diagnostic System Test – Communicate with all vehicle systems and check for diagnostic trouble codes. Note any evidence of codes being recently erased, or other indications of tampering (dishonest dealers and private sellers will often clear trouble codes or disconnect warning lights in an attempt to mislead buyers).
- Carfax Service History and Safety Recall Search – Any safety recalls or service campaigns that have not been addressed will be listed, and service history will be used to aid in determining needed repairs and maintenance.
*Many new and used car dealers use some version of the phrase “Certified Pre-Owned”, but an actual manufacturer-certified pre-owned vehicle will only be sold by a dealer of the same make (only Toyota dealers can sell Toyota certified pre-owned vehicles, for example). The certification process begins with detailed inspection. Any maintenance or repairs needed are typically performed before the vehicle is put up for sale. If the vehicle has a “restored/salvage” title or evidence of major collision damage, they are not eligible for the program. The details vary by manufacturer, but certified pre-owned vehicles almost always include an extension of the factory warranty. In rare cases, we have found issues with vehicles from those programs, but they are generally safe to purchase without an independent inspection. Certified vehicles are usually more expensive, but the cost is partially offset by the additional warranty coverage, lack of immediate maintenance and repair costs, and peace of mind.