It is often said, when buying a used motor vehicle, it's a good idea to have a mechanic inspect it.

What does this mechanic's inspection typically entail?

 

For one thing they can look for evidence of collision damage or other repairs that the seller might not have disclosed, or even know about,flood damage, etc.

A good shop is familiar with different vehicle's particular quirks, known problem areas and typical scams unscrupulous types pull and can advise on the likelihood of continued reliable operation. They can quickly spot problems with brakes and steering and other safety issues.

Much, if not all of the stuff they look at can be done by anyone with experience or a good checklist, but they have the equipment and expertise to do a more thorough and complete inspection, quickly. Scan diagnosis is a part of that too.

Given the cost of modern cars and trucks it's a real bargain to do this and will easily pay for itself, by either declining to buy a probable money pit, or discounting the current asking price to a more realistic level. And by incorporating this inspection as routine, part of the used car negotiation process, it puts the seller on notice somewhat.

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you would think it's some version of that this link discribes

Pre-Purchase Used Car Inspections -- Edmunds.com

but unless you get a checklist of sign off's, don't be surprised if all you get is a state safety inspection.

 

I guess it would depend on what you consider a "mechanic". Some places consider a redneck with a screwdriver and a hammer a "mechanic".

 

That's the fault of the buyer. Take it to a good shop, redneck or otherwise, and that's not a factor. Usually longstanding shops have a reputation to maintain and have worked very hard to secure trust of their customers, and they stay current on the latest tech. They have to, or they won't stay in business.

One of our big local service stations/shops has been around for decades and the owner is seen everyday in coveralls pumping fuel. Great guy, and had him check out my Ranger. I think it was 80 or 90 bucks, something like that.

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Well...the problem is people having a hard time justifying the $100-$150 or so to get a vehicle checked out for some reason. Why?! I don't know because dropping $10k or more on a vehicle with unknown history is just plain dumb if the buyer doesn't know what they're looking at.

The other thing is a "mechanic check" isn't worth a damn if something breaks. It's not a warranty after all. It's just an educated guess that something might not be ready to immediately break down.

 

Sure, it's not intended to be a warranty, one would think anyone savvy enough to get something checked out prior to purchase is going to understand that, and also that stuff breaks. As far as balking at a hundred bucks, people buy (and sell) houses without benefit of an attorney, too. It's crazy out there let me tell ya.

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