Why You Need a Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection

June 28th, 2022
Comment are off

Why You Need a Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection

In Raleigh, tax season is one of the most popular times of the year to buy a used car. Before you spend your money on a used ride, it’s a good idea to first have it checked out by a professional mechanic. Let’s take a closer look at why it’s so important to get a pre-purchase vehicle inspection.

During a Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection Mechanics Check for Maintenance Issues

As you know, routine maintenance has a big impact on a vehicle’s long-term reliability. If you buy a vehicle that hasn’t been serviced on a regular basis, it’s bound to give you problems at some point. An experienced mechanic can tell whether a car has been properly maintained.

During a pre-purchase vehicle inspection, the mechanic will examine everything. The motor oil, transmission fluid, and coolant can reveal a lot about the car’s condition. You can also expect the technician to check for parts that will soon need to be replaced, such as spark plugs and brakes.

Look for Hidden Issues

When it comes to buying a used car, what you don’t know can hurt you. Although a vehicle may look good and perform well, it could have a few hidden issues. This means you’ll ultimately have to invest more money in repairs.

Many used car shoppers forget to check the vehicle’s undercarriage for potential problems. While performing a pre-purchase vehicle inspection, the mechanic will get down on the ground and look for any obvious leaks. Another big issue is rust. Once a metal part begins to rust away, the damage is irreversible.

Reveal a Previous Accident

Before taking ownership of a used vehicle, it’s always a good idea to obtain a CARFAX report. However, it’s important to note that a CARFAX report doesn’t always reveal everything about a vehicle’s past history. The vehicle may have involved in an unreported crash.

By looking at the vehicle’s frame a reputable mechanic can often determine if it was involved in a major accident. A test drive can also divulge a lot of information. A vehicle that pulls to one side may suffer from a bad wheel alignment, which could stem from a previous crash.

Track Down Electrical Gremlins

Electrical gremlins can become a nightmare. For instance, a vehicle’s taillights may be inoperative. While the problem could simply be a burned-out bulb, this isn’t always the case. The electrical wiring may be bad. To fix the problem, you may need to spend hundreds of dollars.

A mechanic will may sure all the vehicle’s electronics are in prime working condition. From the gauges to the climate control system, everything will be looked over.

Diagnostic Testing

Everyone understands that a check engine light is a major red flag. However, deceptive car dealers can easily clear a check engine light. This further highlights the importance of a pre-purchase vehicle inspection. Mechanics have access to all the latest diagnostic test equipment. They will run an OBD II scan to check for hidden codes. You’ll then know about any potential problems in advance.

About the Author
trianglecarcare