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
Just share the basic details about the car along with the seller’s phone number — we’ll handle everything and schedule a full inspection anywhere in the Greater Austin area. Within just a few hours you’ll receive a detailed report that clearly outlines the vehicle’s current condition plus any potential risks down the road. Would you like to join us for the inspection? Simply let us know the best time and location, and we’ll meet you right at the car.
Buying with confidence has never been this simple.
Pre-purchase car inspection in Austin, TX
Just share the basic details about the car along with the seller’s phone number — we’ll handle everything and schedule a full inspection anywhere in the Greater Austin area. Within just a few hours you’ll receive a detailed report that clearly outlines the vehicle’s current condition plus any potential risks down the road. Would you like to join us for the inspection? Simply let us know the best time and location, and we’ll meet you right at the car.
Buying with confidence has never been this simple.
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-7pm), 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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2
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
"I came across car advisors by looking at yelp for a pre pirchase inspection (PPI) specialist. As a buyer from out of state, I was cautious with whom I should use and after researching his website I was sold. I scheduled an appointment and Oleg and contacted the dealer the next day and completed the inspection. The dealer had 100+ photos online but, Oleg provided some I had not seen before that needed attention. The next day the dealer called me to say how impressed he was with the inspector and the patience it took him to inspect the whole vehicle. After reading my report I messaged Oleg through the website to get clarification on a question I had. He quickly responded and answered my question with satisfaction. If you’re looking for a PPI specialist I highly recommend Car Advisors."
Tyler
"Great inspection and saved me from buying a car with many issues."
LaChandra
"Oleg was extremely thorough and professional. He showed me some things that I would have never thought to check for. I would not hesitate to utilize him again. "
Michael
"Great service & thorough inspection. I’m so happy that I found this company. As a woman, buying a car alone can be daunting because we can be easy targets. But, this inspection took the insecurities away, & potentially saved me a costly future repair, Big time. Ordering another inspection is a no brainer. "
Tamara
"I've never used a service like this, but I was very impressed with CarAdvisors. My inspection was scheduled within 24 hours and was done very professionally. There was full transparency and I was able to communicate easily over phone with the mechanic even though the inspection was in a different state. Every single aspect of the car was covered, including things I would have not thought to look for. Will be using this service again and recommending to others. "
Rohan
"I thought my inspection results was some what vague especially where there was noise front suspension area. But other things he did very good"
Customer
"Very thorough and was available immediately. Would use again!"
Angela
"Johnny was amazing, very thorough and professional. Highly recommend!"
Jared
"Excellent service! The inspector came out timely and gave a detailed inspection. Friendly and professional. "
Dagem
"Just saved me a lot of money. The best choice that I’ve made in my car shopping experience."
Taj
"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
"Excellent report. Saved me from buying a car with a lot of headaches. 100 percent recommend. "
Darren
"Great work in a very timely manner, Save me a lot of money with a very detailed report"
Michael
"He did great"
Devin
"I was totally impressed with the prompt & meticulous service of Car Advisors. The technician was professional, organized, and thorough in his assessment. The thing that set this experience apart was the objectivity of the review - it removes any emotion in the car buying process and focuses you on the facts.
I’ve been raving to my friends about this service and the best testament to its effectiveness is - the seller wanted to get the phone number for his next purchase!
This wasn’t the car for me, but rest assured, before I do make a car buying decision in the future - I will be calling Car Advisors !"
Derek
"Saved me from a bad purchase. I wouldn't have detected the transmission issues on my own."
Samuel
"Thank you so much, money well spent, wish I had this type of inspection done on my last vehicle I found online. Great work, very detailed, highly recommend to anyone. "
RONALD
"Very well done inspection- thoroughly done."
Dalton
"I was very pleased with how quickly and smoothly this process went. The report that I received was very detailed, and it was extremely helpful in my decision-making process. I will absolutely use CarAdvisors again."
Alexandria
"Great job. Thank you!"
DougDiagnostic 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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Do you offer pre-purchase car inspection in Austin, TX?
Yes. We provide mobile pre-purchase car inspection in Austin and nearby cities including Round Rock, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Pflugerville, and San Marcos. We come to the dealer or private seller.
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Is your used car pre-purchase inspection mobile?
Yes. It’s a mobile pre-purchase inspection — our specialist meets at the vehicle’s location. You don’t need to drop the car at a shop.
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Can I get a pre-purchase inspection in Austin without being there?
Yes. You can attend, or we can inspect without you (prepayment required). Same-day is often available in the Austin area.
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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. Otherwise, inspection without a lift won't compromise the quality of the inspection itself.
