Buying a used car is a tricky process…Having a pre – purchase inspection can save you from some nasty surprises.

You probably have a few things in mind when it comes to the type of vehicle you’re looking for, such as something that gets good gas mileage, or something that can haul a heavy load, but the most important on your mind is likely finding a safe and reliable vehicle.

The best way to make sure you know exactly what you are getting into is to have a mechanic do an inspection before you agree to the purchase. While most people know this is a good idea, few people actually follow through. A typical buyer will most likely simply take the seller’s word regarding what may be wrong with the vehicle, outside what shows up during a quick around-the-block test drive. There are a number of good reasons why this is not sufficient information to base your purchase on. First, the vehicle may have problems that are unknown even to the seller, either because the signs have not yet presented themselves or perhaps because the vehicle has simply developed a new issue while sitting idle and waiting to be sold.

So why doesn’t everyone get that pre-purchase inspection done? Maybe the buyer doesn’t know how to go about having it done. Perhaps it seems like a hassle or an unnecessary expense. Here are a few key pointers to help you through the process.

First, make it clear to the seller that you will require the opportunity to have the vehicle inspected before agreeing to the purchase. Most private sellers will have no reason to object to an inspection – and if they do, that may be a red flag. If you mention this in your initial conversation you can save time traveling to look at a vehicle that may not be up to par. Many dealerships are also willing to allow you to borrow the car for an inspection. If you are purchasing from a dealer, also be sure to discuss whether they offer a warranty and what it covers.

Next, you’ll need a trustworthy mechanic. If you don’t already have one, ask friends or family for a recommendation. Online review sites are a useful resource as well. Call and confirm that they do service the type of vehicle you are interested in. Some mechanics even offer mobile inspections, so they can check out the vehicle at the seller’s location. Tell the mechanic that you are looking for a thorough inspection, and confirm what the charge for that service will be. This is an expense you’ll have to pay regardless of the outcome, so you may benefit from a little shopping around before making an appointment. In most cases the findings of inspections are not guaranteed.

Once the inspection has been done, get a detailed explanation from the mechanic. If any issues have been found, you’ll need to decide whether this is a deal breaker for you, or if the expenses for repairs are within your budget. Have them write a written estimate for the repairs if there are serious concerns, and you may choose to use this information to negotiate a better price for the vehicle.

Some of the things that can be determined by an inspection include:

• Verification of the equipment or options on the car
• The general condition of the car
• Hidden problems with the body, frame or engine
• Whether there are engine codes that can reveal engine problems
• Poor previous repair work

Lastly, keep in mind that no inspection is perfect, and some potential issues may still crop up at a later date. By having the car inspected before buying, you are only trying to identify existing damage or issues. This is by no means a guarantee that every problem has been identified, but it will certainly help to avoid buying a vehicle that isn’t what the seller proclaimed it to be.  At the very least, you will have more information at your disposal to determine whether this is the right vehicle for you.