Buying a second-hand vehicle is a daunting proposition—with each buyer suspecting in the back of their minds some unknown imperfection and surprise repair cost.
That’s where pre-purchase inspections come in, giving you the assurance that you’re making well-informed decisions. But when it comes to inspections, which option is best for you: a mobile auto inspection or a dealership inspection?
The Benefits of Mobile Auto Inspections
Mobile vehicle inspections offer unparalleled convenience, and they’re becoming a favourite choice for used car buyers. Here’s why:
- Convenience at Your Location – Instead of taking the vehicle to a service centre, mobile inspectors come to you—or wherever the vehicle is located.
- Time-Saving – With mobile inspections, you can skip waiting at the auto shop and also save the time you have to travel to the station.
- Thorough and Transparent Evaluation – Reputable services like Greasemonkey Inspectors conduct 300+ comprehensive checks, including under-the-hood inspections, road tests, video endoscope underbody tests, and even full ECU scans. You’ll get an on-the-spot report, complete with videos and photos, allowing you to make informed decisions instantly.
- Unbiased End Results
What mobile inspections prioritize is the safety of their client, rather than the finalization of the used vehicle sale. This allows independent mobile inspectors to give unbiased and accurate reports.
- Flexible Scheduling – You can book an inspection at any time you like and schedule it to fit the seller’s availability, even outside regular business hours.
- Ideal for Remote Areas – In rural or remote locations, it’s always a hassle to find inspection stations closer to you. But not with mobile inspections.
Drawbacks of Mobile Inspections
Even though mobile inspections are the better choice, there are still a drawback.
- Limited access to equipment
Mobile inspectors can only carry so much with them. This limits the access they have to larger bulky tools like lifts.
The Benefits of Dealership Inspections
Dealership inspections have some advantages, particularly if the dealership is already servicing the vehicle:
- Access to Vehicle Records – Dealerships may have direct access to some parts of the vehicle’s service history to help buyers get another layer of transparency.
- Access to a Wide Range of Tools – Dealerships often have access to the latest diagnostic equipment that can detect more potential issues.
Drawbacks of Dealership Inspections
Despite these benefits dealership inspections are not always the best deal or most unbiased:
- Limited Objectivity – Dealerships that have an interest in selling the vehicle can give slanted information and fail to report expensive or time-sensitive repairs.
- More Money – Dealership-organized inspections are more costly than mobile car inspections for the same level of detail and service.
- Scheduling Inconveniences – Buyers may have to wait for restricted appointment times.
While we are on the subject, it might be best to know some of the things that auto dealers may try to hide from buyers.
Make the Right Choice
Ultimately, the choice between a mobile auto inspection and a dealership inspection comes down to your priorities. But for ease, depth, and unbiased expertise, mobile inspections stand out.
Make your next car purchase with confidence. Book a mobile mechanic pre purchase inspection with Greasemonkey Inspectors today and experience peace of mind for every mile ahead.