If you're in the market for a new vehicle, it's essential to educate yourself on the importance of vehicle inspections before making a purchase. Whether you're considering buying a used car, leasing a new one, or investing in a long-term vehicle, understanding what to expect during a vehicle inspection can help you avoid costly issues down the road.
When to Get a Vehicle Inspected
The timing of a vehicle inspection depends on the circumstances surrounding your ownership or lease. Below are three scenarios in which it's crucial to get a vehicle inspected:
Pre-Purchase Inspections
Before purchasing a new or used vehicle, it's essential to have it inspected by a trained mechanic. A pre-purchase inspection can help you identify potential problems, safety issues, or missing critical components that you may not notice during a test drive. With a pre-purchase inspection, you can negotiate a better price or decide to walk away from a vehicle with significant issues.
Regular Maintenance Inspections
Regular maintenance inspections, also known as tune-ups, are necessary to keep your vehicle running smoothly and prevent costly repairs in the future. During maintenance inspections, certified mechanics will check your vehicle's fluids, spark plugs, brakes, battery, and tires.
End-of-Lease Inspections
If you plan to return a leased vehicle, it's essential to have an inspection completed before the lease ends. The lease agreement will typically outline any charges for excessive wear and tear or damage to the vehicle. Getting the inspection ahead of time can give you ample opportunity to make minor repairs or address potential issues to avoid costly fees.
What to Expect During a Vehicle Inspection
Vehicle inspections should be comprehensive, covering the exterior, interior, under the hood, and a road test. During the check, a certified technician will review and note any problems or potential issues. Below are the common areas of focus during a vehicle inspection:
Exterior Inspection
During the exterior inspection, technicians will check for body damage or rust, review the tire condition, and assess the headlights, taillights, and turn signals.
Interior Inspection
Technicians will review the vehicle's interior for damage, including rips or tears in the upholstery, malfunctioning seat belts, or broken windows or mirrors.
Under the Hood Inspection
Under the hood, technicians can assess several critical components like the engine oil and filter, battery, brake fluid, and the radiator.
Road Test
A road test usually lasts for twenty to thirty minutes, during which time the technician will check the vehicle's steering, acceleration, braking, and transmission.
Common Issues Found During Vehicle Inspections
Some of the most common issues found during a vehicle inspection include:- Worn or Bald Tires- Brake pads that are nearly worn out- Engine Oil Leaks- Broken or malfunctioning headlights or taillights
How to Choose a Reliable Inspection Service
When it comes to choosing a reliable inspection service, it's essential to find a certified and experienced mechanic that you trust. Here are some essential car buying tips when selecting a vehicle inspection provider:- Check online reviews and ratings- Verify that the provider has current certifications and licenses- Ask for referrals from friends or family- Inquire about their qualifications, training, and experience. Overall, getting a vehicle inspection is an important step in the car buying process that can potentially save you time, money, and headache down the road. By understanding the inspection process, potential issues, and how to choose a reliable service provider, you can make an informed decision when purchasing or leasing a vehicle.