Risk associated with Pre-Purchase Inspection Companies:

Once again, the most important factor when getting a used car inspected is the qualifications of the inspector. There are many mobile and fixed facilities that advertise pre-purchase inspections. But only a handful are qualified to inspect every mechanical, electrical, body & frame component.

There is no standardization for pre-purchase inspections, so before you schedule an inspection, ask the following questions:

1) Is the automotive technician inspecting the vehicle an ASE Master Certified Technician? Most automotive technicians are just "ASE Certified" not "ASE Certified Master". Only an ASE Certified Master Technician is qualified to inspect every mechanical and electrical system of the vehicle.

2) Is the automotive technician inspecting the vehicle either certified or a specialist on body & frame systems and repair?  Remember, an ASE Master Technician is not certified on body & frame.

A pre-purchase inspection should be made by an ASE Master Technician for all mechanical and electrical systems, and a Body & Frame Specialist to determine any accident damage and repairs.

Know more about the different types of inspections buyers are getting instead of a professional pre-purchase inspection.