Even though it took months of searching, you finally found it – the car of your dreams. The paint is shiny, the leather is buttery soft, and most importantly, you look great behind the wheel.
There’s just one setback: your would-be vehicle has mechanical problems lurking under the hood. And unless you get a professional, pre-purchase inspection, you won’t know those problems exist – until it’s too late.
3 Common Issues a Pre-Purchase Inspection Can Help You Avoid
A pre-purchase inspection is just what it sounds like: A professional mechanic looks over a used car before you buy it. That way, you have a better chance of catching problems before spending your hard-earned cash.
The best part? A pre-purchase doesn’t have to take time out of your day. AutoNation Mobile Service’s mobile mechanics will come to you and make sure everything with the car checks out…before you check out.
Although a pre-purchase inspection can’t predict future breakdowns (sorry, mechanics don’t have crystal balls in their tool kits), the procedure can help you avoid issues, such as:
1. Mechanical problems
During a pre-purchase inspection, your mechanic will look over all those greasy bits in the engine compartment. In many cases, a test drive will also be taken. By getting well-acquainted with the vehicle, a professional can help pinpoint any wallet-draining mechanical problems it might have.
2. Lack of maintenance
Lack of maintenance can eventually lead to costly mechanical problems. Fortunately, a professional can tell when, say, a car hasn’t had its oil changed or coolant flushed in eons. As part of a pre-purchase inspection, your mechanic will look for signs of neglect, such as these.
3. Electrical gremlins
You might not notice a broken oil pressure gauge or inoperative taillights. But there’s a good chance the mechanic performing your pre-purchase inspection, will. Getting a pre-purchase inspection will help catch any potential electrical issues with the car before you drive off.
What a Pre-Purchase Inspection Can Do For You
By now, it’s probably obvious that getting a pre-purchase inspection is a smart move. An in-depth, professional evaluation can do the following:
1. Provide peace of mind
A pre-purchase inspection provides reassurance that your dream car isn’t a financial nightmare in disguise. And that will help you sleep better at night.
2. Save time and money
These days, even seemingly minor automotive repairs can break the bank. Thankfully, a professional pre-purchase inspection can help you avoid costly, hidden problems.
3. Enable you to get a better deal
During a pre-purchase inspection, your mechanic might find the car needs some minor work that isn’t a dealbreaker. You can use that information as leverage to work out a better deal with the seller.
4. Prevent frustration
Nothing is more frustrating than owning a car that’s in the repair shop more than it’s on the road. By getting a pre-purchase inspection, you increase the likelihood that you’re getting a gem, instead of a lemon.
5. Help you find your dream car
You know what they say: Beauty is only skin deep. Well, the same goes for cars. Even though a vehicle might look like Prince Charming on the outside, under the sheet metal, it could be a real toad. A pre-purchase inspection gives you a better chance of finding your dream car – and avoiding a clunker.