From the initial purchase price to recurring costs, such as registration and insurance, buying a used car can be a smart way to save thousands of dollars. However, this process does come with some risk. Before you commit to any purchase, take the vehicle you’re interested in to an auto repair shop to be inspected by a mechanic.

A Guide to Used Car Inspections Before a Purchase

Why You Need an Inspection Before a Purchase

A preowned car comes with a lot of mystery. The previous owner or owners may have neglected key maintenance tasks, been in a collision, flood or caused other damage that you could have no way of knowing about. A simple test drive and peek under the hood won’t be thorough enough to give you confidence in the vehicle’s condition.

Once you hand over the money and get the keys, the transaction will be final. Do not take the seller’s word for it, and always take a used vehicle to a third party auto repair professional before purchasing it.

Whether your purchase is thousands of dollars or tens of thousands, you need to be sure of the car’s condition before spending that kind of money. The results of the inspection will give you the opportunity to negotiate a lower price, back out of the sale, or most importantly, purchase the vehicle confidently.

What’s Included in an Inspection

During an inspection, the 1^st thing is our visual inspection and test drive. We look for obvious signs of prior repaired damage that might indicate hidden problems from previous accidents. Then we test drive for vibrations, noises, handling and braking characteristics. Then our mechanics will look carefully at all parts of the car. We will review the car’s overall condition, such as the wear on the tires and brake pads and perform a complete safety inspection. We will also check for previous engine codes that could reveal electrical or mechanical problems.

Our technicians will also check the frame for signs of corrosion, damage or poor repairs that may indicate a previous major collision. This will provide information about the potential consequences of the damage, such as improper tire tracking. Other common issues that arise during inspections include signs of oil consumption and worn engine parts, fluid leaks, neglected engine oil, and failing interior equipment.

If you need a vehicle inspected to ensure a confident purchase, turn to the team at Fort Mitchell Garage in Covington, KY. Our auto repair shop has been certified by Assured Performance, and our skilled technicians are equipped to work on both domestic and foreign models. Once you have your new vehicle, we will keep it in great condition with a full array of engine maintenance services. Learn more about what we do on our website, and call (859) 431-3326 to schedule an affordable inspection.