Which is the Best Company for Vehicle Pre-Purchase Inspections? There are many reasons to have regular inspections for your car, including enhancing road safety, boosting vehicle performance, lowering repair costs, and increasing the resale value by maintaining the car well. These types of inspections are often performed by a local mechanic shop.
Best Option
Calling themselves the best solution for vehicle inspections, POMCAR offers a 270-point checklist as part of their standard service. With the acronym POM standing for Peace of Mind, this veteran-owned business provides nationwide service since 2014 to help buyers in all major metropolitan areas know more about the prospective cars they plan to buy.
Schedule online and have an inspection in 48 hours
With three levels of service to choose from, POMCAR allows online booking of your vehicle inspection. You will need the physical address of the vehicle, the VIN, and seller type. POMCAR contacts the seller and completes the inspection at that location. Same-day service is an option you may request if they have an open tech; otherwise they are usually performed within 48 hours of your order.
Average priced packages with select features
The starter inspection ($180) from POMCAR is available for vehicles made in 1995 and newer, which do not require a fluid check. In addition to the standard inspection, they will look at up to three focus areas of your choice. The experienced inspection ($185), which is for cars from 1995 and older, is similar to the starter package but includes a check of all fluid levels, which can help determine past maintenance of a vehicle, as well as how long it's been idle. Their professional inspection ($195) is a popular option, available for vehicles from 1996 and newer. This service includes all the benefits of the experienced package but adds an OBD-II scan to reveal active trouble codes. An authorization for the inspection amount will be placed on your credit card at the time of order, but you will not be invoiced until the service is actually scheduled to take place.
What's included in their PPI
The entire 270-point inspection is posted on their How it Works page, as well as a sample report on their Why Us page. More than just a checklist, it is a comprehensive report which even contains photographs. Major categories that will be checked as part of the POMCAR process include tires and brakes, undercarriage, electrical and lights, interior, and engine. Their process involves a road test at the seller's discretion. POMCAR does not raise the car off the ground nor include paint thickness measurements. They will look for evidence of repair as well as use of non-OEM parts.
Certified and screened technicians
All POMCAR techs have specialized experience in specific makes and models, aiming to match your inspection with the most qualified person in your region. Additionally, 95% of techs are ASE certified, and all have had their backgrounds screened. The company does not inspect auction vehicles, saying their techs are typically not permitted to properly inspect the autos. POMCAR does not complete PPIs for classics, antiques, trucks above class 7, or school and passenger buses. POMCAR will inspect all other used passenger vehicles, light duty trucks, SUVs, electrics, and hybrids.
Satisfaction guaranteed, refunds are not
POMCAR says customer satisfaction with their service is guaranteed, noting that they provide the "used vehicle inspectors with the right experience or your money back." The refund policy states that cancellations before the inspection is scheduled will only be refunded half of the amount charged (so make sure you want this service before booking). However, if the car is no longer for sale or the seller won't permit it to be inspected, you will receive a full refund.
Customers are happy
POMCAR is accredited by the BBB and earns an "A+" rating, with only one complaint over the past three years. While the company is still newer and does not have as much client feedback, it has a solid 4.7 out of 5 stars on Google reviews. Happy customers noted responsive customer service, detailed reports, and excellent service overall. The negative comments are about canceled inspection times and items missed on the inspection or reported incorrectly.
Top choice once again
POMCAR continues to lead our list of recommended vehicle inspection services due to its affordable cost, expertise, and positive customer feedback. We're confident that their inspectors will turn up all of the information you need to make a decision about the car you're considering for purchase.
Great
Providing fast PPIs for cars nationwide, Automobile Inspections is available for most types of vehicles. In business since 1995, this company even helps people buy vehicles long distance, especially classic, exotic, and specialty cars.
Simple, online scheduling and report in 72 hours
To schedule your inspection report, first select the type of vehicle to be examined and choose the service to be done. Provide the name, address, and phone number of the seller, the make and model of the car, and your credit card details. Automobile Inspections begins arranging the inspection upon your request, traveling to the seller's location to do the job. Most will be completed and back to you within 72 hours. Your card is charged once the inspection is underway, sending you a completed, online report, as well as a phone number to call if you should have any questions about the inspection.
Select from two levels of inspection or specialty vehicle options
Automobile Inspections offers two levels of reports for buyers of used cars and trucks. The basic report ($199), including 48 photographs, is a three-page account of the vehicle's major issues, such as accident damage, evidence of post-factory paintwork, condition of interior and underside, electronic components, and on-board diagnostics. With this option - best for late model, low-mileage used cars and trucks less than five years old - the inspector will spend about 30-40 minutes checking out the auto.
A full report ($349) is a more extensive inspection in which the inspector spends 90 minutes with the vehicle, giving more time to thoroughly examine the car, including the underside, resulting in a six-page report with over 125 photos of the vehicle. The full report inspection is recommended for used cars up to 25 years old or those which may be newer but have higher mileage. Prices for other vehicle inspections vary, such as motorcycles for $199, classic cars for $379, and $399 for exotic cars, street rods, and RVs. Each level includes a mileage range the inspector will drive to perform the task. The website does not specifically mention additional charges for longer mileage, but be aware that one negative online review we found complained about extra costs related to this.
Full item review list and sample reports offered
Claiming to have the most extensive list of checkpoints in the industry, Automobile Inspections includes these categories in their reports: bodywork checks, soft-top checks, trunk, engine, underbody, interior trim, instrumentation/electrical checks, tires/wheel checks, and vehicle paperwork. A brief road test is included in the inspection, with the seller's permission. For a full listing of all that is part of both levels of inspection, see their website - where you'll also find numerous sample reports for you to review, including for antique and vintage vehicles, motorcycles, and RVs. The website also says they "offer a free professional consultation to every client" (though it's unclear about what they are consulting).
How much is it worth?
If desired, Automobile Inspections can give their opinion about the value of the vehicle you're having them inspect. For an additional $25, they will provide an "opinion of value," which is based on similar vehicles inspected nationally during the past year. Another option given is a written appraisal for $50, which provides more details and photographs about similar recent sales. VIN checks can be performed if requested.
Specialist in classic cars
Automobile Inspections prides itself in its ability to provide inspections for vehicle purchases of "any car any year," including antique and vintage cars, muscle cars, exotics, street rods, motorcycles, and RVs. The company, a division of Buyer Services International, can also help draft a purchase agreement, check title, transfer funds, and transport the vehicle to your home, if desired.
Refunds not an option
Credit cards are authorized by Automobile Inspections for the agreed amount but are not charged until the inspector heads to the location for the examination of the vehicle. After that point, there are no refunds.
Customer reviews are lacking, but good BBB rating
Automobile Inspections is not accredited by the BBB but has an "A+" rating, with no complaints recorded. There are limited online reviews available, which we find strange, given that the company has been in business so long. Many customer testimonials (focused on classic cars, and all good, of course) can be found on the Automobile Inspections website, but they don't have much of an online review presence, aside from a negative mention on a classic vehicle forum and one positive but brief review on Google.
Best choice for classic vehicles
Automobile Inspections offers extra thorough PPI report options if you desire, as well as the basic option which is still pretty comprehensive. Combined with their vast classic car experience, we rank this company as the best choice if you're looking for an inspection on an antique or classic vehicle.
Good
AiM Certify inspects over 12 million cars for consumers looking to buy or sell a used vehicle with its nationwide mobile inspection service. In the auto inspection industry since 2005, the company aims to provide peace of mind for consumers to buy with confidence.
Order online to schedule within three days
On the AiM Certify website, you can order an inspection package based on your vehicle needs, including specifically ordering one for a vehicle at a dealership or from a private seller. Provide the car's age, VIN (if available), manufacturer and model. Then you will select the package, log in to their website, provide the vehicle location and purchaser's information, make a payment, and receive an order confirmation. AiM Certify will contact the vehicle inspection location to schedule this within two to three days. A certified inspector will then be dispatched to examine the vehicle. You will receive a detailed condition report and AutoCheck history report (add-on option) within 24 hours of the inspection, with reports from the premier package inspection within 48 hours.
Costs less than average, offers limited guarantee option
There are multiple options for assessing a vehicle's condition with AiM Certify service. First, the preferred package is available at two prices, based on the age of the vehicle. Cars from 1981 and newer will cost $149, while classic cars older than 1981 cost $229. The Plus package ($169) is for cars 1981 and newer, adding on an AutoCheck vehicle history report. If you want more than what's typically included, the premier package starts at $399 and offers the added benefit of engine and transmission oil sampling analysis, as well as an engine/transmission limited guarantee (if it passes testing). For a commercial vehicle 1981 and newer, you will need to purchase the commercial package for $229, which includes an AutoCheck vehicle history report.
Comprehensive report with vehicle grade
AiM Certify offers a 150-point examination of all parts of the vehicle being inspected, looking at everything to ensure a true assessment of the vehicle's condition. A test drive is part of the package but is not guaranteed based on the seller's willingness and other factors. All levels provide quick online report access, visual inspection of all fluids, inspection for damages and repairs, inspection of tires, and a title and odometer check. The inspection features a thorough condition report with more than 15 photos, comments from the inspector, and a vehicle grade. This grade, ranging from "A" to "F," is designed to help buyers make informed purchasing decisions. Sample reports for multiple cars are available on the website.
Full-time inspectors available only weekdays
Inspections are only performed during the daytime on weekdays only. The company notes that their inspectors are full-time employees who have extensive training and only perform inspections of new and used vehicles as their jobs. You can request to speak to the person who performed your inspection - unlike some other companies who specifically do not allow this or charge you to speak to someone about your report. AiM says it has "exclusive technology that ensures consistent, accurate results," but offers no further explanation. One thing to note is that AiM Certify inspectors do not connect any equipment to the car, including diagnostic readers, so they cannot tell you if there were any cleared engine codes (a mark against their otherwise impressive service).
Engine and transmission limited guarantee
If you purchase the AiM Certify premier package, the company provides a limited guarantee on the engine and transmission, provided it passes the scientific lab analysis designed to inform you about the condition of the mechanical parts. This is the only such guarantee we have seen.
Refund is possible
If the seller refuses permission for an inspection, AiM Certify will refund you (less an administration fee of $29). Additionally, you may cancel without penalty 24 hours prior to the appointment for a refund (also less the administration fee).
Limited reviews with mixed feedback
AiM Certify is a division of Alliance Inspection Management, which is unrated and not accredited by the BBB. Yelp reviews are mixed, with the company earning 2.5 out of 5 stars across a limited number of mostly older reviews. Negative reviewers rant about communication issues, missed obvious issues with the vehicle, and last-minute cancellations. Other online comments complained about the limited guarantee being a waste of money, the perception that AiM Certify inspectors are mostly looking for cosmetic issues, and that they aren't trained mechanics. Given that the company has been in business for over 20 years, we would expect more reviews, especially considering the number of cars they claim to have inspected.
Middle of the pack
AiM Certify has some impressive features, including the premier package offering the limited guarantee and providing a refund for cancellations. However, reading engine codes could easily diagnose a problem on a used car (and their lack of equipment to do this is puzzling), and mixed reviews place it just above average for us. Check out the vehicle inspection options higher on our list before you sign up with AiM Certify, since you may get better service from a rival provider.
Average
Car Saints is a network of mobile inspectors providing unbiased opinions about used cars since 2012. Only providing pre-purchase vehicle inspection services, the company works with all types of vehicles nationwide.
Online booking for inspections, possibly within two days
Call or set up the inspection online by choosing the price package you want. Payment is expected before the process begins. Inspections for Car Saints may happen within two business days, and weekend inspections are not guaranteed. To request an inspection online, you must create a free account for their website. Alternatively, an inspection may be booked by calling them. Car Saints contacts the seller and travels to them to perform the inspection.
Costs seem clear until you try to select a package
There are three levels of vehicle inspections offered by Car Saints. First is the basic plan ($159.99), available for vehicles from 1998 and newer. A plan for conversion vans, motor homes, exotic, modified and race (EMR) vehicles is offered for $299.99. The classic plan ($319.99) is offered for cars from 1997 and older. However, there are other prices listed online for their services specifically mentioning San Diego County, LA, and Orange County. If you want to book online, these are the only choices that can be clicked on, which is strange since Car Saints say they are a nationwide service. If you are outside of that area, you may need to call to book your inspection. (They really need to update their website to clarify this confusion, as it has been this way for a while, complete with a blog last updated in 2017.)
What's included is hard to tell
While Car Saints do not typically put the vehicle on a lift to inspect, they will do it on a case-by-case basis for an extra charge. Unlike other companies, a listing of items they specifically inspect is not available on the website, though you can find sample reports there. In fact, all reports are included in a small searchable database on the Car Saints website. However, while this is a nice bonus, we found it limited in its offerings.
Only credits given, no refunds
No refund is offered if the car sells before it gets inspected or if you cancel the inspection for any reason, but Car Saints will offer credit to have another car inspected. They recommend that customers should be ready to buy at the negotiated price prior to placing an inspection order.
Limited but positive customer reviews
Across online review platforms, feedback is very limited but positive (though the most recent review was over a year old). Car Saints received 4.8 stars out of 5 on Yelp. Pleased customers noted that the service provided peace of mind, as well as speedy and professional service. One customer's negative feedback mentioned a two-part process in which the company gave a debriefing of the inspection, followed by an in depth report three days later that raised alarms the debrief had not mentioned. (If there is something of concern, it should be at the forefront of a report, right?) Car Saints is not listed nor rated by the BBB.
Just about average
While Car Saints has pleased some customers, we would prefer to see more feedback for a company in business for so long. Additionally, their website could use some tweaks to make it more user friendly. As a result, Car Saints rank as average for pre-purchase vehicle inspections.
Average
Pep Boys has been in business since 1921 and has over 800 shops in 36 states. Aside from pre-purchase vehicle inspections, this full-service mechanic will also perform any state-regulated and rideshare inspections you need at their locations all over the United States.
Find your location, schedule, and bring in the vehicle
To schedule a vehicle inspection at Pep Boys, contact your nearest location or schedule online. You will need your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine type. Similarly, state-required and rideshare inspections may be performed at Pep Boys and are scheduled in the same manner. After making the appointment, you bring the car to their location for the inspection.
Cheapest option for pre-purchase inspections
The 120-point inspection costs $85 at Pep Boys (best price we've seen, by far). Prices for rideshare and state inspections vary, according to the website. Coupons may be available on the website, so be sure to look first.
Comprehensive report
Offering a 120-point vehicle inspection to evaluate the condition of a vehicle for buying or selling, Pep Boys will check the engine and internal services; brakes, steering, suspension, and tires; battery and electrical; vehicle interior, and general vehicle with OBD test codes and a test drive. They also give you a free CARFAX vehicle history report, which details accident history, title records, and previous service history. The inspection, which takes approximately 45-minutes, gives you a full breakdown of findings and recommendations for the vehicle.
Full-service mechanic
Unlike some companies on our list, Pep Boys is a full-service mechanic. Since the vehicle has to go to the Pep Boys location, you may have to convince the seller to allow you to take it or meet you there.
Customer reviews are by individual location
Individual Pep Boys locations are franchised and therefore separately listed and rated on the BBB. You will need to look up your location to see how they compare, though the company was acquired by Icahn Enterprises, which does have an "A+" rating. The same goes for their online reviews across various platforms. As with many mechanical shops, some have a better reputation than others regarding service and trustworthiness. We recommend looking at local reviews before taking your vehicle in for inspection.
Best non-mobile option for vehicle inspections
Pep Boys offers a good service at a great price, though individual locations are ranked and rated separately so it's difficult to gauge customer satisfaction. If you can get the vehicle to their location, Pep Boys offers the best price and is our best non-mobile option for pre-purchase inspections. However, because not every seller is going to be willing to take the vehicle to another location, Pep Boys lands as just average on our list - mobile inspection services are just more convenient.
Average
Specializing in antique, classic, and collector cars, Auto Appraisal Group (AAG) provides inspections for any type of used vehicle you are considering purchasing, using certified independent agents. Since AAG's beginnings in 1989, the veteran-owned company has also performed over a dozen different kinds of appraisal services for vehicles.
Submit request online to get a quote for the service
To schedule your service with AAG, you can call or book online. Enter the type of appraisal service needed (in this case Pre-Purchase Inspection, though they offer 14 other valuation services). After providing your information, vehicle information, and vehicle location information (for PPI this is the seller's address), you will enter your credit card payment. Then - and here's where AAG differs from other services we've seen - it asks if you have spoken with them and received a quote for the service. If you have not done that, you will check the option for them to contact you to provide a quote (which is an unnecessary delay, in our opinion). Most AAG inspections take place for PPI within two to four days of ordering the service. Agents coordinate with the seller to schedule, though weather delays may occur. Weekend appointments are available.
All-inclusive prices not listed on website
No costs are listed for PPI or other services on the AAG website. The website notes there is a military discount offered in honor of all veterans and active duty armed services members. Additionally, the FAQs note that all fees are included in the quoted price (though it's difficult to compare this service without knowing the cost).
Detailed PPIs for all vehicles
For classic cars, AAG inspectors examine over 350 checkpoints for each vehicle, and their reports include detailed schematics of paint gauge readings, over 100 clear photos, and a copy of title or registration and pertinent receipts. A test ride is included, provided the seller allows it. A value consultation phone call is available at no additional charge. The used car PPI differs slightly by providing a CARFAX or AutoCheck history report in addition to the comprehensive five-page report with photographs and phone consultation.
Personal phone consultations provided
Unlike many other companies, AAG inspection agents will contact you before and after the onsite inspection, providing a brief summary regarding the vehicle's overall condition and inspection experience.
Appraisal add-on available
If you would like a certified appraisal for a lender or insurance coverage, AAG can provide that for an additional fee. The company specializes in evaluating vehicles for reasons such as loans, bankruptcies, divorce settlements, charitable donations, and insurance claims.
Wide-ranging customer reviews
Auto Appraisal Group is not accredited by the BBB, though it has an "A" rating, receiving only two complaints in the past three years. Across review platforms, feedback is mixed, with averages ranging from 1.7-4.1 out of 5 stars. Negative reviews complain that customer service is rude and answers to questions are difficult to get, as well as inspectors missing items which needed repair. Positive experiences note the inspectors' professionalism and expertise, providing information to help buyers make informed decisions when purchasing classic cars and vehicles far from home. We do wish there were more reviews for a company which has been in business for over 30 years, though the reviews regarding the classic car inspections seem to be mainly positive.
Needs more information
Without knowing how Auto Appraisal Group ranks in prices, it's hard to recommend them. When combined with the roller coaster of reviews available, we put this company at "just okay" and suggest looking here mostly if you need a classic car PPI but do not have another option in your area.
Subpar
Christian Brothers Automotive has over 300 locations nationwide, providing pre-purchase inspections for used vehicles since their inception in 1982. The company says they follow the Christian ideal of loving your neighbor as yourself, which they apply to the way they approach business and guest service.
Book online and bring it in
To get a vehicle inspection, schedule an appointment with Christian Brothers Automotive online or via phone. If scheduling online, you choose the location closest to you, give information about the vehicle to be inspected, select the service you want, choose a date and time to bring it in, and provide your personal contact information. Vehicles must be taken to their shop, where their experts will use their equipment to inspect and diagnose any issues. Keep in mind, due to the length of the inspection process, they require you to drop the vehicle off for the inspection - which a seller may not allow. They will text you a digital vehicle inspection report with photos and videos of findings, plus recommendations regarding any work the vehicle needs, including any concerns with the car's current parts and their life expectancy.
No costs mentioned on the website
We were disappointed to see that the cost for a pre-purchase vehicle inspection is not listed on the website. According to online reviews we saw, the price varies by location. Alternatively, Christian Brothers offers a free courtesy inspection of a vehicle's major operating systems to inform you of maintenance issues. It is part of their service to offer this to every vehicle entering the shop. The courtesy inspection takes 30 minutes or less, so it's not as thorough as some other services, but it can save you money and possibly find a big problem with the car. (You may be able to use this service to get a free inspection, but it won't be as thorough as the PPI or specific state-required inspections.)
Wellness check of the vehicle
The Christian Brothers inspection is a "wellness check" for your vehicle, completed by an auto repair tech to make sure the vehicle conforms to safety and emissions regulations, as well as optimal performance standards. They will test and look at the car's brakes, brake pads, tire rotation, bulbs, parking brake, tires, windshield wipers, steering, mirrors, wheel assembly, exhaust system, exhaust emission system, and horn.
Full-service mechanic
Christian Brothers Automotive is a full-service mechanic, unlike some vehicle inspection companies. If you want to use them for your pre-purchase inspection, you'll have to see if the seller will permit you to take it in or meet you there. They also perform safety inspections that may be required by your state and those take about an hour or less, so you can wait in their shop if you wish.
Customer reviews below average
Individual locations are listed on the BBB for Christian Brothers Automotive, so you will have to look for your local shop to see how they are rated. While the corporate office for the company is listed on the BBB, it is not rated nor accredited, receiving just one complaint in the past three years. Across review platforms, feedback is mixed for the company as a whole. From the limited number of reviews on Trustpilot, Christian Brothers has earned just 2.3 out of 5 stars. Positive reviewers noted that the company "surpassed all expectations" and was upfront about costs. Negative reviewers claim they were overcharged and the company took too long to do the work, incorrectly performing repairs. While an individual location's service can vary with any mechanic, the accusations in these negative reviews have us concerned.
Look elsewhere for better options
Disappointingly, Christian Brothers Automotive ranks low with reviewers and is not upfront with its pricing. Since this company has limited locations and you have to take the car to them for a vehicle inspection, we recommend you look at the better options available on our list.
Weak
With the motto "Don't buy a lemon," nationwide used car inspectors Lemon Squad began offering reports in 2020. They claim to be the largest vehicle inspection service and have the best turnaround time in the industry with inspectors in all 50 states.
Process and turnaround is similar to other companies
To order an inspection, you can either call or fill out the online form for Lemon Squad. You will choose from these services: inspect vehicle, inspect commercial vehicle, inspect motorcycle, inspect RV, or fraud listing detection. Then input the vehicle information and seller's contact details. Choose add-ons desired (CARFAX history and verbal vehicle assessment are offered), give your contact info and credit card number, and submit. Lemon Squad contacts the seller and goes to the location provided to perform the inspection. Then the findings are transmitted to the Lemon Squad team of ASE Master Technicians to review before you are emailed the easy-to-understand report. Lemon Squad notes that inspections are typically completed within two business days, though it may be done more quickly. (They claim to have the best turnaround time but we found it to be in line with most of the other companies we reviewed.) Since they cannot guarantee an inspection date, they encourage customers to make arrangements for a hold if necessary. They do not schedule inspections for weekends, nor do they expedite reports. All inspections may be viewed online for 60 days as Lemon Squad does not provide a hard copy of its reports.
Higher than average standard fee
A standard pre-purchase inspection report from Lemon Squad costs $220 and is offered for cars newer than 20 years old. The inspection for an exotic car is $286. A classic inspection is offered for cars 20 years or older, adding special emphasis on age deterioration, looking for rust and bondo, and including more than 40 photos, for $330. A commercial vehicle inspection is available for $365. RVs (both motorhomes and towables) may be inspected by Lemon Squad for $449, and motorcycle inspections are offered for $210. If you're not looking for a complete inspection and require instant feedback, Lemon Squad offers a fraud detection option for $40, confirming the seller has a vehicle to offer while providing an image of title and lien release if available, as well as verified photos of the car's exterior, VIN, and odometer. A mileage fee may be charged for some locations, though you will be told this when placing your order.
Just the "facts" add-on available
A CARFAX vehicle history report may be added on for $34.99 with your paid inspection; this trusted service contains information about vehicle accident history, open recalls, previous owners, service history, and more for cars 1982 and newer. If you would like to have your inspection report explained in detail by one of Lemon Squad's professional staff members, add on a Verbal Vehicle Assessment Report for $49.99. (That seems like a steep fee to charge for help understanding their findings.) While the company does not offer appraisals, Lemon Squad offers True Market Value Assessment as an add-on feature in which the expert mechanic provides a fair market value of the vehicle being inspected.
What's included in the inspection
All inspections include computer diagnosis of engine, transmission, ABS, and air-bag; comprehensive mechanical inspection of drive-train; inspection of steering, suspension, and brakes; check for accident and flood damage; road test; fluid levels check; and at least 25 photos. Sample reviews are available to see on the Lemon Squad website. As a bonus feature, the inspectors will check for cigarette smoke odors and report what they find, though they warn that special chemicals can mask the odor during an inspection.
Need an auction vehicle assessed?
Unlike some companies, Lemon Squad will look at vehicles on auction sites and at auction houses, as long as inspections are permitted (confirm first since the fee is not refundable).
No refunds are given
If the vehicle sells before Lemon Squad dispatches an inspector, your prepaid fee will be retained and may be applied towards the inspection of another vehicle. No refunds are offered for service cancellation.
Customers are unhappy with this company
Lemon Squad is not accredited by the BBB and has a "D+" rating on the site due to failure to respond to complaints filed against the business. Complaints detailed numerous reports which neglected to mention serious issues encountered after purchasing the inspected vehicle, as well as difficulty scheduling inspections resulting in vehicles being sold prior to review (very frustrating to be sure). Reviews across online platforms are consistently bad, averaging just 1.8-2.4 stars out of 5. A majority of customers are unsatisfied with the level of customer service provided. Complaints regarding the "blatantly obvious damage" and items missed by inspectors, as well as the slow speed of service were mentioned throughout the negative reviews.
One to avoid
While Lemon Squad may seem like a worthy option at first glance, extremely negative customer feedback combined with higher than average fees and no refunds put it near the bottom of our list. Fortunately, you've got much more reputable options for vehicle inspection services - just look near the top of our list.
Poor
OnCall Inspections is a company of certified inspectors, with an average of 10 years' experience, dedicated to providing quality, comprehensive inspections. According to their website, they have performed thousands of inspections across most of the United States.
Order online but no timeframe given
To get a pre-purchase vehicle inspection from OnCall Inspections, either call or complete the online order form. Provide vehicle information and location to enable their inspectors to schedule a time to examine the car. Once the inspection has been performed at the vehicle, a report will be provided for you to view online. No estimated timeline for inspection completion and receiving the report is provided on the website.
Average when it comes to pricing
There are multiple options for OnCall Inspections' services. First, there is the standard package ($199) which is for cars less than 20 years old. The classic ($299) is for vintage cars and will include an emphasis on age deterioration of the car, looking for rust and bondo as well as the other parts of a typical pre-purchase inspection. The exotic ($286) is available for higher-end cars and will involve more detail and attention than a regular inspection. Commercial ($349) is available for all commercial vehicles, examining for condition and function, as well as the typical inspection list. In addition to pre-purchase evaluations, OnCall Inspections provides claim inspections, damage assessments, ownership verifications, and value assessments.
Value appraisal included
OnCall Inspections performs a 150-point pre-purchase vehicle inspection, providing an easy-to-understand comprehensive report with meaningful insights related to the vehicle. Upon inspection, there will be a computer diagnosis of engine, transmission, ABS, and airbag; comprehensive mechanical inspection of complete drivetrain inspection of the steering suspension and brakes; examination for accident and flood damage; fluid levels check; 5-mile road test (if permitted by seller); and vehicle photos. A sample report is available for viewing on their website. Additionally, all inspection services ordered receive a value appraisal at no extra charge.
Refunds and cancellations policy
OnCall Inspections permits you to cancel a scheduled PPI 24 hours prior to the scheduled inspection (though it is unclear what type of refund is offered, if any). If the seller does not show up for the inspection, there is no refund. The inspector, however, will call prior to the inspection to verify the vehicle is still available and would set up a new time to inspect the vehicle if needed.
Customers warn against this company
Not accredited by the BBB, OnCall Inspections has earned an "F" rating for failure to respond to complaints. Across online review platforms, the company comes up far below average, with ratings of 1.3-2.9 out of 5 stars. Unhappy customers mention reviews taking a long time (or never receiving the report) and difficulty getting any response from the company. The handful of positive reviews said the company helped them avoid making costly mistakes and provided good service.
Choose a better option
OnCall Inspections offers limited information on its website to make it stand out from the other companies, while racking up many negative reviews. As a result, we recommend looking elsewhere for your vehicle inspection.
Continued from above...
There are many reasons to have regular inspections for your car, including enhancing road safety, boosting vehicle performance, lowering repair costs, and increasing the resale value by maintaining the car well. These types of inspections are often performed by a local mechanic shop.
Another type of inspection, the pre-purchase inspection (PPI), is a different service you may find yourself needing when you're in the market for a new-to-you vehicle. Buying used can be a great option; however, it's also important to consider that each used vehicle may come with its own problems that are not disclosed to you prior to the sale. Therefore, a PPI can help.
A PPI is a thorough examination of an automobile to assess its current condition. Performed by someone who is knowledgeable about cars, these inspectors can range from mechanics and hobbyists to former insurance assessors and other industry experts. Typically, an inspector will provide a detailed assessment of the car's vital systems and overall condition in the hopes of offering a buyer the necessary information about whether or not to buy the car in question.
Is the car you are looking at out of state? Many companies provide mobile PPIs for this very reason. A mobile PPI can be extremely useful and save you a costly airline ticket or wasted time viewing something that is not what it was advertised to be. PPIs are also essential for those who don't know much about cars and want to make sure they're not getting a "lemon" (another name for a car with multiple defects).
PPIs offer more than a CARFAX or AutoCheck report. While those options can tell you service history, they are unable to assess if the car is currently safe to drive. Nor can they advise you on how much life is on the belts, hoses, engine mounts, and other key parts. Additionally, if you desire a value assessment - which some PPIs can provide - CARFAX and AutoCheck reports are not designed for that purpose.
If you've decided to get a pre-purchase inspection for a used vehicle you want to purchase, there are a few main considerations to keep in mind. We suggest looking at these important factors as you compare companies:
We at Top Consumer Reviews have evaluated and ranked these nationwide services which routinely perform pre-purchase inspections for used vehicles. Spending the money on a report like this may save you thousands of dollars in repairs and hours of headaches. Compare the information, find the best option for your inspection, and make an informed decision when purchasing a used car. Our goal is to help you to feel more confident as you look for your next used vehicle.
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