MyCarInspector

What a Pre-Purchase Inspection Actually Covers

A pre-purchase inspection is 75 checked items, a diagnostic scan, a road test where the seller allows one, and a written recommendation. Here is what that actually means in practice.

$249.00
Standard inspection
Minutes
From finished to your inbox
$0
Until your report lands
75
Items checked

The difference between a checklist and an assessment

Anyone can tick 75 boxes. What makes a report useful is grading — separating a fault that needs fixing now from wear that is entirely normal for the age and mileage. A report that flags everything on a twelve-year-old car tells a buyer nothing they can act on.

That is why findings come in four states rather than pass or fail: checked and fine, normal for the age, may need attention later, and needs attention now. Two of those change what you should pay. One is simply the car being its age.

On this kind of purchase

Every inspection also covers the full checklist — engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, tires, body and interior — with a diagnostic scan and a road test where the seller permits one.

Worth knowing first

What is not covered?

A mobile inspection is done on the ground, so the underside is assessed by eye rather than from a ramp. We do not dismantle anything, and we do not value the vehicle — we report its condition.

How long does it take?

Usually over an hour on site. The report reaches you within minutes of the inspector submitting it.

What do I actually receive?

A photo-documented report with every item graded, the inspector’s notes, all the photographs, a written recommendation, and a PDF you can download or hand to the seller.

Other situations we cover