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If you are purchasing a pre-owned vehicle, it is important to look into every component before you invest a large sum of money. Pre-purchase inspections will help you uncover hidden defects that a seller may try and hide. Buying a car that needs frequent repairs is frustrating, which is something that a pre-purchase inspection from Layton Carcare can help you avoid. While PPIs are not required, they can ensure that you make a smart purchase and have a reliable vehicle.
What Will A Pre-Purchase Inspection Look For?
Similar to an inspection for a car you already own, a PPI will look at codes, structural damage, and all internal systems.
Codes And Electrical Issues
Mechanics and autobody shops will have a type of computer that can read eclectic codes produced by the car to signal a problem. When your engine light, oil light, or brake light appears on your dashboard the produces a code that once scanned by the computer provides insight into the problem.
Structural Damage
A pre-purchase inspection will also look for hidden structural damage. Often, some sellers will replace the plastic outer body of the car without repairing the mechanical components. Mechanics will inspect axles, doors, brakes, floorboards, and more for damage. They will then show you what may need to be fixed immediately.
Uncover Hidden Issues
Some vehicles often have issues that no one could predict. Even if someone takes proper care of their car and has regular inspections, issues can hide until you hit a certain mileage or a part wears out.
Will My Local Mechanic Be Able To Conduct The Inspection?
Finding a mechanic who has done pre-purchase inspections before will allow them to complete the inspection quickly and without error. Layton Carcare offers pre-purchase inspections to look for worn-out parts, damage, or other worn seat belts and ball joints.
Most mechanics will know what to look for when you bring in a car for pre-purchase inspections. Running a diagnostic inspection is a fairly simple process for an auto shop. Before you go to look at a car, you can call your local mechanic shop to check if they offer complimentary pre-purchase inspections.
When PPI Is Most Important
While most vehicle experts recommend getting a pre-purchase inspection done on any vehicle, there are some specific factors that push an inspection from being recommended to being crucial. PPIs are best done on any vehicle you want to invest in, but some older models or those without a high reputation should always be inspected by an auto care professional.
Other instances that will benefit most from PPI include:
- Cars with high mileage or that have had the engine replaced
- A car that is out of warranty
- Vehicles with rebuilt or salvaged titles
- Buying from a private seller or from a used car website
- Vehicles that have been totaled and “repaired”
- When considering a hybrid or electric vehicle
Why Inspections Are Important When Purchasing A Car
Most states require a car to pass emissions testing each year. These tests ensure that a car is working properly and is not a danger to others on the road. A pre-purchase inspection is just another way of determining if the car will pass emissions. When purchasing a used car, it can be hard to determine what the seller really knows about the vehicle and its history. Taking the vehicle to a professional at Layton Carcare will help paint a picture of what the vehicle has been through.
Pre-purchase inspections look for body damage, damaged parts, or worn-out parts, as well as electrical codes that could cause issues down the road. Having an inspection is often free, or more affordable than purchasing a car that will need expensive repairs. Taking the extra time for an inspection is beneficial because you won’t waste money on an unreliable vehicle.
Trusting Your Vehicle Maintenence To Layton Carcare
Our team has been working on automobiles for generations. Our technicians know about popular automobiles and the many issues that come with them. We can perform a thorough inspection before you buy a used car so that you know you are spending your money on something worthwhile. Vehicles can experience wear and tear of all kinds, even if they are in mint condition. Bringing your car to our team at Layton Carcare will help make repairs or prepare you for future problems so you can tackle them with confidence. Contact us to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment by calling 801-593-9200.
