Engine inspection
(general state, extent of wear). Looking for leaks, stains, and smoke. Listening to abnormal noises and vibrations. Checking condition of fluids and drive-belts.
Home / Pre-purchase car inspection
Modern vehicles are very complex and computerized, making it difficult even for an owner to know about any upcoming or existing issues that may cost a fortune to fix. To be confident in your next car – order our inspection for in-depth, factual, and objective information about its condition. While a mechanics shop might try to exaggerate a small defect to entice you to pay them to fix it, our detailed inspection is meant only to help you buy a reliable vehicle that meets your expectations.
Get peace of mind!
Pre-purchase used car inspection
Modern vehicles are very complex and computerized, making it difficult even for an owner to know about any upcoming or existing issues that may cost a fortune to fix. To be confident in your next car – order our inspection for in-depth, factual, and objective information about its condition. While a mechanics shop might try to exaggerate a small defect to entice you to pay them to fix it, our detailed inspection is meant only to help you buy a reliable vehicle that meets your expectations.
Get peace of mind!
How it works
Place your order by phone or through our site. Specify a meeting point and time if you've already made an appointment with a seller and want to attend the inspection.
Our specialist will arrive at the vehicle and perform the inspection. The average duration to complete – about 1 hour.
We notify you once the inspection is complete and the report is ready. Have any questions? Call us - we'll be glad to explain.
Inspection types and prices
Single inspection
$220
Includes: Specialist arrival, inspection of 1 vehicle (if you want to check multiple vehicles at the same location – a 20% discount will be applied to further inspections).
Place an orderFull day
$650
Includes: Unlimited number of inspections at different locations during the day (9am-8pm), specialist can transport you in their own vehicle if preferred.
Place an order
Serving area
Inspection procedure
Engine inspection
(general state, extend of wear). Looking for leaks, stains, and smoke. Listening to abnormal noises and vibrations. Checking condition of fluids and drive-belts.
(general state, extend of wear). Looking for leaks, stains, and smoke. Listening to abnormal noises and vibrations. Checking condition of fluids and drive-belts.
Computer diagnosis of ALL electronic systems
(ABS, airbags, ESP, HVAC, navigation systems, etc) with comprehensive analysis of the engine and transmission work.
(ABS, airbags, ESP, HVAC, navigation systems, etc) with comprehensive analysis of the engine and transmission work.
Examination of structural framework
(longerons, pillars, rocker panels, frame) for signs of heavy impacts or bodywork.
(longerons, pillars, rocker panels, frame) for signs of heavy impacts or bodywork.
Test drive
(if possible) to determine condition of suspension, brakes, steering, transmission, and drivetrain.
(if possible) to determine condition of suspension, brakes, steering, transmission, and drivetrain.
Determination of mileage
(matching car condition to declared mileage, if possible reading out mileage data from electronic control modules).
(matching car condition to declared mileage, if possible reading out mileage data from electronic control modules).
Interior inspection
for wear, damages, dirt, odors, water leaks.
for wear, damages, dirt, odors, water leaks.
Body survey
(fenders, doors, hood, windows, headlights, etc) focused on signs of impacts, flooding, and repainting. Pointing out scratches, dents, rust, chipping, matching paint and paint cracks.
(fenders, doors, hood, windows, headlights, etc) focused on signs of impacts, flooding, and repainting. Pointing out scratches, dents, rust, chipping, matching paint and paint cracks.
Electric components testing
(lights, power windows, locks, sunroof, etc).
(lights, power windows, locks, sunroof, etc).
Checking the drivetrain
(driveshafts, differentials, CV-joints, low gear, differential lock mechanism, boots) for operability, wear, backlash, noises.
(driveshafts, differentials, CV-joints, low gear, differential lock mechanism, boots) for operability, wear, backlash, noises.
Transmission testing
(manual and road tests, computer diagnosis for any kind of automatic transmission). Looking for leaks and signs of recent repairs.
(manual and road tests, computer diagnosis for any kind of automatic transmission). Looking for leaks and signs of recent repairs.
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Computer diagnosis of ALL electronic systems
(ABS, airbags, ESP, HVAC, navigation systems, etc) with comprehensive analysis of the engine and transmission work.
3
Examination of structural framework
(longerons, pillars, rocker panels, frame) for signs of heavy impacts or bodywork.
4
Test drive
(if possible) to determine condition of suspension, brakes, steering, transmission, and drivetrain.
5
Determination of mileage
(matching car condition to declared mileage, if possible reading out mileage data from electronic control modules).
6
Interior inspection
for wear, damages, dirt, odors, water leaks.
7
Body survey
(fenders, doors, hood, windows, headlights, etc) focused on signs of impacts, flooding, and repainting. Pointing out scratches, dents, rust, chipping, matching paint and paint cracks.
8
Electric components testing
(lights, power windows, locks, sunroof, etc).
9
Checking the drivetrain
(driveshafts, differentials, CV-joints, low gear, differential lock mechanism, boots) for operability, wear, backlash, noises.
10
Transmission testing
(manual and road tests, computer diagnosis for any kind of automatic transmission). Looking for leaks and signs of recent repairs.
Sample reports
73/100
2018 Toyota Corolla
Mechanically, this Corolla is in solid shape for its age. Full report →
58/100
2023 Tesla Model 3
Mechanically, this vehicle is in good shape where it matters most for an electric car: the high-voltage battery retains 94% of its… Full report →
31/100
2005 BMW 645i
This convertible has a significant number of mechanical and cosmetic issues that you should weigh carefully against its price. Full report →
13/100
1968 Ford Mustang
This classic Mustang has significant body and structural history that you should weigh carefully. Full report →
Reviews
"Great and professional mechanics. Very convenient and provided great advice. We ended buying the car and it has been a great experience"
Kasra
"Great Job! Saved me from buying a lemon and saved me hours of driving to go check out a car I should not purchase. Thanks!"
James
"Oleg has done 4 inspections for us. We appreciate his hard work and expertise."
Customer
"Oleg is great! He arranged our first inspection very quickly. He was very thorough and saved us from making a bad purchase decision. About to schedule another appointment with him right now! Worth the cost to save money down the line!"
Eddie
"Oleg was able to do the inspection and provide the report in the same day. I really appreciate the quick turnaround, and the report was detailed and thorough. Thank you so much!"
Lydia
"Used CarAdvisors for a 2nd time and it worked out great. On time and very professional. "
ANTHONY
"excellent turn around time. Prompt response to my inquiry and detailed report after the inspection. Highly recommended"
Jodi
"Very thorough and detailed reports."
Vandora
"It's always interesting when you look at car pictures and videos and feel like the car is THE ONE! Until Oleg goes in and does the inspection. There were numerous problems with the car that would be unsafe for me to drive and one found, thanks to Oleg, that caused me to double-back and look at the manufacturer's site I found that the car's issues are prone to igniting a fire. While this is a long process for me to vet/inspect each car, I feel smarter knowing that it's the right way to buy a pre-owned car. Thanks again Oleg!"
Tamia
"Tremendous value with great customer service.. Oleg was able to meet and perform an inspection of a potential used vehicle the same day. Punctual and professional... Responded to all questions and provided much needed insight into those details that are often overlooked when purchasing a used vehicle.. If you are in the market for a used vehicle, do yourself a favor and guarantee peace of mind by giving CarAdvisors and Oleg a call"
Brendon
"Oleg's report was very thorough and brought to our attention some issues that we were not aware of. His attention to detail is second to none and the report was extremely informative and put us in a better spot to make an educated purchase decision."
James
"Very detailed report. He had answers for all my questions. Knowledgeable on every part of the inspection. "
GIovanni
"Very careful, thorough inspection, helped me avoid a less than great vehicle. Extremely satisfied, Highly recommend!"
Jacob
"I highly recommend CarAdvisors. This inspection saved us a lot of money on a vehicle purchase that would have cost us dearly. There were numerous issues with the car. It is better to spend $150 now for a thorough, detailed pre-purchase inspection report including pictures than to spend a few thousand dollars for a car only to find out from the repair shop that there were costly pre-existing problems later. Thank you, CarAdvisors. - Cynthia"
Raymond
"Having a car inspected before purchasing offers so much peace of mind and Oleg does a really great job being thorough and objective about the condition of the vehicle. It's very much worth the money and you are given a detailed report afterwards. Highly recommend!"
Sarah
"The first vehicle this company inspected was awesome. They responded quickly and inspected the vehicle in a timely manner. The inspector was very helpful. "
CHANTELLE
"Great inspection. Protected me from making a bad decision."
Mia
"Thorough and very fast to deliver. I was very impressed by the report and the speed at which they completed the inspection. I would highly recommend them, especially for people who are not 100% knowledgeable about vehicles and their potential pitfalls."
Jason
"He inspected deeply and saved us from buying a damaged car"
Vivek
"They actually did a nice inspection and found multiple flaws that I missed. It was worth taking the ppi with caradvisors"
VenkataDiagnostic equipment
Diagnostic scanner
to check electronic systems and read its current state.
Coating thickness gauge
to find repaired and welded body parts.
Stethoscope
to find the source of abnormal engine noise.
Endoscope
to seek out leaks and damages in hard to reach places.
Advantages
Industry best comprehensive inspection with professional equipment.
Low and flat inspection fee for any type of car - classic, modern, luxury.
Get reports on the same day – on average we can get to a vehicle in only 1.5 hours.
Super detailed but easy to read report. Have a question? Call your inspector!
And of course, you may attend the inspection yourself and see our specialists at work.
Recent orders
FAQ
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How qualified are your mechanics?
We are a small team of specialists with master’s degrees, a deep knowledge of car electronics, and many years experience in auto inspection. We don’t hire unknown mechanics from all over the country just to expand our presence in other states.
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What type of vehicles do you inspect?
We inspect all cars and trucks of any age and price. If a vehicle is a hybrid or is electric, we thoroughly inspect the battery and generator with a professional scan tool to make sure that these expensive parts are in working condition.
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Can you perform a computer diagnostic for an older vehicle with a non-standard diagnostic connector(not OBD2)?
Yes, we have special connectors for a wide variety of older vehicles. So even if it doesn't have a carburetor we can perform a computer diagnostic.
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What types of payments do you accept?
You may pay with card (debit or credit), from your account, or by cash or check after the inspection if you decide to see it in person.
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Can I cancel an inspection that has already been ordered and scheduled?
Yes, you can cancel an inspection at any time without charge. However, it's preferred that you provide at least 1 hour before the scheduled inspection time.
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Do you inspect vehicles on a lift?
It depends on the seller. If the seller has the facility to lift the vehicle (for example, if the seller is an auto dealer with a shop) then our specialist would inspect it on the lift. In most cases however, there is a necessity for a lift only if the test drive revealed issues with the drivetrain or suspension, and to determine the source of the problem and if it's ok to lift the car.
