The Value of a Pre-Purchase Inspection

Ok, you have researched and located the BMW or Mercedes-Benz that interests you. It may be a "Pre-Owned," Certified Pre-Owned," "Pre-Loved," "New to You," the proverbial "Little old lady car" or any other label created to shed the negative connotation of a "used" vehicle.

If it is a local sale then you have followed the basic guidelines:

• You have seen the vehicle in natural sunlight (the most revealing of all light)
• You have cold started the vehicle and road tested it to check the acceleration, shifting, braking, and ride quality
• You have remained as objective as possible (keeping your emotions at bay)
• You have invested in a Carfax vehicle history report.

It is now time for a Pre-Purchase Inspection.

One only has to read the local headlines or listen to stories of friends and family to hear a disappointing used vehicle experience. Much like enlisting the services of a home inspector for housing purchases, it is recommended by many automotive industry pundits to enlist the services of an automotive technician familiar with the make and model, to assess the mechanical and safety condition of the vehicle.

Although a Pre-Purchase Inspection can never be 100% accurate as there will always be risks associated with a used vehicle purchase, a quality Pre-Purchase Inspection performed by an experienced automotive technician can significantly hedge some of the risk for potential safety and financial issues for the purchaser.