Pre-Purchase Inspection:
Know What You're Buying
Quick Facts
Full Inspection: $270
Complete assessment including computer diagnostics, road test, and visual inspection
Visual Inspection: $90
Thorough visual check of all major systems and components
Time Needed
2-3 Hours (Full) / 90 Minutes (Visual)
Same-day service
Make informed buying decisions quickly
Peace of Mind
Detailed report with photos and repair estimates before you buy
Honest service
Clear picture of what you're buying. Nothing you don't need to know.
Our standards
At Clarity Auto Care, we do pre-purchase inspections right. We provide comprehensive evaluations using the same diagnostic equipment as dealerships, plus thorough visual inspections and road testing. Our certified techs document everything with photos and give you detailed repair estimates. No surprises after you buy—just complete transparency about what you're getting into.
Why you need to know before you buy
Buying a used car can feel like a gamble. That "perfect" car might have hidden problems that could cost thousands down the road. Even cars that look great can have serious issues lurking underneath.
A pre-purchase inspection is like having an expert look over your shoulder during the biggest purchase decisions. We check everything—from obvious problems to hidden issues that only show up under professional inspection.
Here's the reality: a small inspection fee can save you from huge repair bills. We've seen buyers avoid $5,000+ in surprise repairs by spending a few hundred on proper inspection first.
Long story short: know before you buy = confident purchase.
Better to walk away from a problem car than drive away with expensive surprises.
What Hidden Problems Cost You
Used car sellers have every reason to hide problems and every trick to make issues disappear temporarily. What looks like a great deal can quickly become a financial nightmare.
Common hidden issues we find:
- Engine problems disguised with stop-leak additives and fresh oil
- Transmission issues masked by fluid changes right before sale
- Brake problems hidden by last-minute pad slapping without rotor work
- Electrical issues that only show up under computer diagnostics
The real cost of buying blind:
- Major repairs needed immediately after purchase
- Safety issues that put you and your family at risk
- Emissions problems that prevent registration
- Costly problems that reduce the car's actual value
- Lost time dealing with repairs instead of enjoying your new car
Remember:
Sellers know about problems—they're just hoping you won't find them until after the sale. Professional inspection levels the playing field and gives you the real story about what you're buying.
At Clarity Auto Care:
We're committed to providing honest service, fair pricing, and quality repairs.
Quality Takes Time
We take the time your car needs, because rushing through maintenance puts your engine at risk.
Right Oil, Right Part, Right Car
We use manufacturer-approved parts and fluids - not generic alternatives. It's what your car was engineered for.
Guaranteed Repairs
12-month or 12,000-mile warranty on most services. Read the warranty terms
Expert Care
Our technicians aren't just trained - they follow detailed manufacturer guides for every make and model. They spot potential issues before they become expensive problems.
See Everything
After each service, you get a complete digital inspection with clear photos of your car's condition. No guessing what's happening under the hood.
Honest Service
We do exactly what your car needs - nothing more, nothing less. No pressure, no surprise add-ons. Just straightforward maintenance to protect your investment.
SAVE UP TO 30%*
with Clarity auto care
Repairs your car need and nothing you don't
*compared to the local dealer's price
Full Inspection vs Visual Inspection
Not every used car purchase needs the same level of inspection. We offer two options to match your needs and budget.
Full Inspection - Complete Peace of Mind:
- Computer diagnostics to check all electronic systems and scan for hidden codes
- Road test to evaluate performance, handling, and drivability
- Complete visual inspection of all major systems and components
- Detailed report with photos and repair estimates for everything found
- Best for: Higher-value vehicles, cars with unknown history, or when you want complete confidence
Visual Inspection - Essential Problem Spotting:
- Thorough visual examination of engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, and body
- Fluid analysis to check for contamination or unusual wear
- Basic operational check of lights, electronics, and accessories
- Photo documentation of any issues found with repair estimates
- Best for: Lower-value vehicles, cars with known service history, or budget-conscious buyers
The choice depends on the car's value, your budget, and how much peace of mind you want before making your purchase decision.
What We Check During Inspection
Our inspections are systematic and thorough. Here's what we examine:
Engine and Drivetrain:
- Oil condition and leak check
- Cooling system condition
- Belt and hose inspection
- Transmission fluid and operation
- Exhaust system condition
Safety Systems:
- Brake pad and rotor condition
- Suspension components
- Steering system operation
- Tire condition and alignment
- Light and signal function
Electrical and Electronics:
- Battery and charging system
- Computer system scan (full inspection)
- Air conditioning operation
- Electronic accessory function
Body and Interior:
- Accident damage assessment
- Rust and corrosion check
- Interior wear and function
- Window and door operation
Signs You Should Get Full Inspection:
- Buying from private party or small lot
- Car has high mileage or unknown history
- Vehicle is expensive or you plan to keep it long-term
- Any warning lights or unusual symptoms
Signs Visual Inspection Might Be Enough:
- Buying from reputable dealer with warranty
- Car has complete service records
- Lower-cost vehicle for short-term use
- You're mechanically knowledgeable and want professional confirmation
When Do you need a pre-purchase inspection?
Getting a pre-purchase inspection isn't always necessary, but it can save you thousands when buying the right vehicles. Here's when it makes the most sense:
Definitely get an inspection for:
- High-mileage vehicles: Any car over 75,000 miles, regardless of age
- Luxury or performance cars: BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Porsche - expensive repairs are common
- Vehicles over 8 years old: Major components start wearing out after this timeframe
- Cars with incomplete service records: Unknown maintenance history is a red flag
- Private party purchases: No dealer warranty or return policy protection
- Expensive purchases: Any vehicle over $15,000 where repairs would be financially painful
Consider an inspection for:
- First-time car buyers: Helps you learn what to look for in vehicle condition
- Unfamiliar makes/models: Brands you haven't owned before may have unknown issues
- Long-distance purchases: Can't easily return if problems develop after purchase
- Financing considerations: Major repairs could affect your ability to make payments
Remember:
A $200 inspection can uncover $5,000+ in hidden problems. Even if the inspection reveals issues, you can use that information to negotiate a lower price or walk away from a bad deal.
Quality service at fair prices
Complete auto care: from oil changes to engine swaps.