Pre-Purchase Inspections: Pay A Litte, Save A Lot!
Posted on: 17 December 2014
You will save a lot of money by purchasing a used car. Very often, you can obtain a reliable product that will get you from point A to point B safely. When you buy a used car, however, you do take a bit of a risk. Used cars typically have no warranties, and are sold "as is." In order to reduce risk, it is highly recommended to get a pre-purchase inspection from a certified mechanic or auto technician before going ahead with the purchase.
The pre-purchase inspection is a step that many people neglect to take. People have many reasons, or excuses, for not getting an inspection done on the car prior to purchasing it. Some reasons people have are:
- The seller wouldn't allow it.
- The purchase was made online, and the vehicle is a long distance away.
- The buyer was excited about the "deal" they were getting, and didn't want to wait.
- The buyer or someone with the buyer assumed they knew enough about cars to make the judgment on their own.
- The buyer didn't want to offend the seller.
- The buyer didn't want to spend money when the car is "probably" okay.
- The buyer wasn't aware that a pre-purchase inspection was an option.
By not getting an inspection prior to purchasing a used car, the buyer is running a huge risk. Since used car sales are typically "as is", once the purchase is made and the buyer drives away with the car, the seller has no responsibility for any problems that occur with the car.
The Pre-Purchase Inspection: What Occurs
For the cost of an hour's worth of labor (typically about $100), a certified mechanic will examine the car, looking for cosmetic, mechanical, and safety problems. This examination will uncover existing conditions and maintenance shortcomings and will reveal upcoming necessary repairs.
The mechanic will put the car up on a lift and will check under the vehicle for leaks or broken components. They will also take the car for a drive, testing the performance in a variety of road conditions, such as stop and go traffic, highway driving, and hills. They will be able to evaluate the steering, brakes, and suspension while driving it. Finally, the mechanic will do an engine analysis.
Online and Long Distance Car Buying
Technology has changed the way that some people buy cars. Many sellers advertise their used cars online, and many buyers enjoy having access to vehicles from different locations. Buying a used car online or from a greater distance does not mean you have to take your chances and skip the pre-purchase inspection.
There are companies that will travel to the car to do the inspection. Some are local, and some are national, but the way they work is similar. These companies communicate with both the seller and the buyer and set up a time to go to the location of the car. The mechanic or auto technician will examine the car thoroughly and will also take photographs. When they are done with their report, they will contact you with the information, so that you can make an informed decision on whether or not to proceed with your purchase.
By paying a little to get an inspection prior to purchasing a used car, you can rest easier knowing that the car is reliable and safe. Spending a little before the purchase can save you thousands if the car turns out to be a lemon. For more information, contact Mid-Atlantic Muffler & Brake or a similar company.
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