Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection in Arvada, CO

We go over the car systematically, top to bottom, inside and out. This isn't a quick walk-around — we put it on a lift and inspect the undercarriage, pull wheels if needed, and scan the computer systems for codes and readiness monitors.

• Engine — compression, leaks, noise, fluid condition, belts, hoses
• Transmission — shift quality, fluid condition, noises, clutch condition (manual)
• Brakes — pad thickness, rotor condition, caliper operation, brake lines
• Suspension and steering — ball joints, tie rods, bushings, shocks/struts, wheel bearings
• Undercarriage — frame rust, exhaust condition, CV joints, differential leaks
• Electrical — full scan for stored and pending codes, battery health, alternator output
• Tires — tread depth, age, uneven wear patterns that indicate alignment or suspension problems
• Cooling system — pressure test, coolant condition, hose integrity

You'll get a written report with photos. We'll tell you what's wrong now, what's going to need attention in the next 6-12 months, and whether the asking price makes sense given the car's condition. We don't have a stake in whether you buy it or not — you get an honest assessment.

A $150-$200 inspection has saved our customers from buying cars with blown head gaskets, rusted subframes, slipping transmissions, and accident damage that wasn't on the Carfax. One customer brought in a WRX that looked clean on the surface — we found a cracked ringland on cylinder 4 with a leak-down test. That's a $4,000+ repair the seller conveniently didn't mention.

Even if the car checks out, the inspection gives you a maintenance roadmap. You'll know that the timing belt is due in 10,000 miles, the brakes have 30% left, and the rear tires need replacing. That's negotiating power at minimum.