Why A Pre Purchase Inspection Is The Smartest Investment Before Buying A Vehicle

Buying a used car is a big moment filled with excitement and often a little stress too. A natural hesitation when buying a used car should be seen as a good thing, as it prevents a rushed decision. This is where the importance of a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) comes in. This one-off investment will ensure that the car you’re interested in receives a comprehensive inspection, allowing for a more informed decision to be made.

Here's why a pre-purchase inspection is the smartest investment you can make before buying your next used vehicle.

The Value Of A Pre-Purchase Inspection

Professional pre-purchase inspections consist of a thorough analysis of the car you’re interested in buying. PPIs should only be conducted by a certified mechanic on staff at a leading auto repair facility. A PPI allows for a third-party individual who has no vested interest in your outcome of the purchase to critically inspect the car. This helps to remove the emotions from the decision-making process by providing an objective opinion on the car. See it like a full health check on your car, providing you as the prospective buyer with vital decision-making information.

What’s Included In a Pre-Purchase Inspection?

PPIs focus on several important component checks on the vehicle at hand, each check providing valuable information.

A Mechanical Once-Over

The first step is to examine the engine and general mechanics of the car, as this is where problems are often found. Your mechanic will inspect the engine block, cylinders, pistons, and the crankshaft. The car will also be started up and driven to listen for any strange noises coming from the engine, the transmission, and the cooling system. Any faults or concerns found may give you good reason to rather not purchase the car.

Thorough Suspension Check

Suspension checks will identify damaged or worn suspension, which provides valuable insight about how the car was driven. A neglected suspension system is a sure sign that the car didn’t go through a thorough preventative maintenance protocol. Unevenly worn tires and wheel wobbling will also be looked for. Replacing suspension components can cost a considerable amount, taking away from the investment proposition.

Car Body Check

This is an important one, as hidden rust and corrosion can lead to a hefty repair bill down the line. Apart from any rust, our mechanic will also check for any signs of accident damage. Tell-tale signs include differing panel gaps and mismatched paint. If it’s determined that the car was in a previous accident, it’s best to walk away, as this could compromise the structural integrity of the car, putting you and your family’s safety on the line.

Battery And Brake Inspection

Although a dead battery may be an easy enough component to replace, it can also point towards other issues, such as a faulty alternator. It could also mean that the car has been sitting for extended periods, causing other issues such as tire flat spots and old oil. Most importantly, a healthy car battery means that you won’t be at risk of a breakdown due to a battery dying on you. A car’s brakes form a major safety component, and a PPI should include a comprehensive brake check. Discs, rotors, and brake pads will be checked, as well as the brake lines and the ABS functionality. If warped rotors are found, this could point towards a larger brake issue and may involve a costly overhaul.

The Value Prospect Of A Pre-Purchase Inspection

A one-off cost of a PPI is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you’re buying a good car. Buy a dud, and it could easily set you back thousands of dollars. Here are some reasons why a PPI is a smart investment decision.

Increase Negotiating Power

Used car businesses are always wanting to get the most out of a sale. Knowing the true condition of the vehicle will provide you with some bargaining power, as you’ll be able to negotiate a better price. A battery that’s on the way out, for instance, might allow you to make a lower offer for the car, which could be accepted. Investing in a PPI could lead to you paying less for that car you’re after.

Avoid Costly Repairs

So much of a car’s mechanics are hidden under the hood. Although it may look incredible from the outside, there could be substantial underlying issues. A PPI will ensure that any mechanical issues are detected and explained clearly to you. You’ll also be given an idea about how much it might cost to be fixed. This helps to remove the future financial risk associated with buying a car, as you will also be aware of what future maintenance will be required.

Get Peace Of Mind For You And The Family

Having a car comprehensively checked provides that peace of mind when it comes to the car’s safety. From previous accident damage to malfunctioning safety systems, you’re ensuring that the car you buy will offer predictable safety for you and your family.

Pre-Purchase Inspections Are A Solid Investment

As you can see, there are many advantages to a pre-purchase inspection. What’s most important is to ensure that you find a reputable performance and repair facility to conduct your PPI. A facility that’s experienced in your particular car of choice means that they’ll be able to check for any issues specific to that car. A repair shop that takes the time to sit down and explain the findings is also vitally important so that you can make an informed decision. With all the benefits of a pre-purchase inspection, it’s no wonder why it’s such a smart investment choice