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Estimates Common Car Repairs Pre Purchase Car Inspection

What Is a Pre-Purchase Car Inspection & Is it Important?

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BMW M5 Pre Purchase Car Inspection Costs

AutoNation Mobile Service offers upfront and competitive pricing. The average cost for BMW M5 Pre Purchase Car Inspection is $165. Drop it off at our shop and pick it up a few hours later, or save time and have our Delivery mechanics come to you.

Car
Location
Price
2013 BMW M5
4.4L V8 Turbo Base • 76,233 miles
TX 75093
$149 - $182
2018 BMW 750i
4.4L V8 Turbo Base • 75,395 miles
TX 77014
$117 - $143
2021 BMW X3
3.0L L6 Turbo M Competition • 29,634 miles
TX 77074
$149 - $182
Get A Quote 12-Month | 12,000-Mile Warranty

How It Works

Our certified technicians come to you with a wrench and a smile. Do what you’d normally do at home (or the office) - catch up on yard work or a favorite TV show, make dinner - while your vehicle is being serviced.

Tell us about your vehicle

Provide your car’s year, make, model and engine type or provide your plate and we’ll look it up for you.

Get an instant quote

Depending on your repair, you will receive an instant quote or one directly from one of our advisors during business hours.

Schedule your repair

Schedule a time that works best for you and we’ll come to your home or office to complete the repair. Or drop it off at one of our local shops.

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What Is a Pre-Purchase Car Inspection?

A pre-purchase car inspection (PPI) is a thorough check of a pre-owned car conducted before finalizing a car purchase. 

Typically carried out by a certified mechanic or a professional inspection service, this comprehensive inspection assesses the vehicle’s condition. During the inspection, an independent mechanic would check for physical damage or active engine light codes, ensuring the car buyer is aware of any underlying problems.

This helps a potential buyer make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the vehicle purchase.

What Does a Pre-Purchase Car Inspection Cover?

A PPI by an ASE-certified auto mechanic is more than a quick glance under the hood — it includes a detailed inspection of the entire vehicle. 

Here are some parts a qualified mechanic will inspect during the PPI of a used vehicle.

  • Tires and brakes: Check for tire wear and wheel alignment. Also, assess the brake pads and rotors in case they need a brake repair. 
  • Suspension and steering: Test for stability, ensure the steering components are correctly aligned, and check for unusual vibrations or noises while driving. 
  • Exterior inspection: Do a thorough inspection of the car’s bodywork for scratches or dents, the condition of the paint, and structural damage. Also examine the windows, mirrors, lights, and car dealer-installed modifications. 
  • Interior inspection: Ensure the seats, electronic features, and relevant accessibility standards are met. 
  • Under the car: Look for frame damage and wear in the exhaust system, suspension, or drivetrain components. The mechanic will also check if the car needs an oil change. 
  • Under the hood: Check the car engine and perform engine tune-ups. They’ll also inspect the car battery, belts, hoses, and fluid levels for signs of leak or deterioration. 
  • Transmission: Check for smooth gear shifts, transmission fluid levels, and if there’s any need for a clutch repair.
  • Test drive: Conduct an automotive road test to assess the overall driving and HVAC system performance. This inspection will ensure that the heater and air conditioning system work effectively without any smells.

How Much Does a Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection Cost?

A comprehensive pre-purchase car inspection at an auto repair shop typically costs between $100 and $200. The charges can vary based on the extent of the inspection service and your location. 

The inspection cost can also increase for commercial vehicles or high-end vehicles due to the need for specialized assessments.

What Are the Benefits of Inspecting a Car Before Buying?

Here’s why a detailed report from a professional mechanic is essential:

  1. Avoid expensive repairs: A comprehensive automotive inspection of a used car detects issues early, helping you avoid a potentially costly repair. 
  2. Negotiate a better price: If the inspection process reveals issues, you can leverage the inspection report to negotiate a lower car price or request the private seller to make the necessary repairs. 
  3. Verify the quality of car parts: The auto repair check ensures that components such as brake pads and transmission are in good condition. 
  4. Ensure your safety: Vehicle inspection is crucial to ensuring that components like brakes, tires, suspension, and emission systems work properly. 
  5. Peace of mind: Knowing that a skilled mechanic has performed a thorough inspection allows the car buyer to purchase with confidence.

Where to Get a Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection?

When it comes to getting a pre-purchase vehicle inspection, you have two options:

  • Mobile mechanic services: A mobile mechanic will come to your location to perform a detailed inspection and provide a same-day inspection report.
  • Auto repair shop: You can take the vehicle to a certified auto repair shop, where an independent mechanic will use specialized equipment for an interior inspection. They will also jack up the vehicle for an exterior inspection of hard-to-reach areas.

Can You Perform a Pre-Purchase Inspection Yourself?

As a potential buyer, you can conduct a basic visual inspection of a used car, but it’s best to have an expert mechanic do an in-depth check-up.

Here’s why:
A skilled mechanic has the tools and expertise to go deeper than what most buyers can do themselves. They will also provide a detailed report you can use to negotiate costs.

However, if you’re doing an initial used car inspection before bringing in a qualified mechanic, consider checking:

  • Tire wear and condition
  • Engine light status and other dashboard alerts
  • Exterior for visible damage
  • Test drive performance, including braking and acceleration

What to Do If You Find Damage During an Inspection?

Finding damage during pre-purchase car inspections doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker. A pre-owned vehicle with some history of damage might still be a great purchase. 

However, major concerns, such as the car needing extensive brake repair or clutch repair, could suggest the vehicle isn’t a worthwhile investment. 

Moreover, if the private seller hasn’t disclosed the damage or refuses to provide documentation, such as a vehicle history report, it’s worth rethinking the vehicle purchase. Consulting a certified mechanic for a second opinion can help ensure you’re making an informed decision.

If you’re looking for a trusted pre-purchase inspection service, look no further than AutoNation Mobile Service. Our expert mechanics will ensure you get an accurate and detailed report before finalizing your car purchase. 

We offer mobile auto repair services and convenient online bookings. All our services also come with a 12-month | 12,000-mile warranty.

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