Every line item on the order.

Engine

Leaks, noises, fluid condition, visible wear on belts and hoses.

• Oil, coolant, power steering and transmission leak inspection
• Cold-start behavior and idle quality
• Belt and hose condition, tensioner and pulley noise
• Fluid condition and level across all reservoirs
• Visible gasket and seal condition
• Cooling fan operation and radiator condition

Transmission & drivetrain

Shift quality, fluid condition, signs of slipping or delayed engagement.

• Engagement into drive and reverse, warm and cold
• Shift smoothness and timing through the gears
• Transmission fluid condition where checkable
• Clutch feel and engagement point on manuals
• Differential and transfer case leak inspection
• CV axle and boot condition

Suspension & steering

Worn bushings, alignment symptoms, steering feel and play.

• Shock and strut condition, leaks and bounce test
• Control arm, bushing and ball joint play
• Steering rack play and tie rod condition
• Ride height and spring condition
• Symptoms suggesting alignment issues
• Wheel bearing noise

Brakes

Pad and rotor wear, fluid condition, pedal feel.

• Pad thickness measurement at all four corners
• Rotor surface condition, scoring and lip
• Brake fluid condition and level
• Pedal feel, travel and firmness
• Caliper and hose condition, visible leaks
• Parking brake operation

OBD-II scan

Stored and pending codes, readiness monitors.

• Full stored and pending diagnostic trouble code scan
• Readiness monitor status, which flags recently cleared codes
• Freeze-frame data where available
• Manufacturer-specific codes beyond generic OBD-II
• Live data review on relevant sensors

Body, frame & paint

Prior repair signs, panel gaps, rust, paint thickness readings.

• Paint depth readings across every panel
• Panel gap and alignment consistency
• Overspray, mismatched texture and blend lines
• Frame rail and structural inspection for prior repair
• Rust and corrosion assessment, including undercarriage
• Glass condition and date-code consistency

Tires & wheels

Tread depth, uneven wear patterns, age and damage.

• Tread depth measured at each tire
• Wear patterns that point to alignment or suspension issues
• DOT date codes, since age matters as much as tread
• Sidewall damage, bulges and repairs
• Wheel damage, bends and curb rash
• Spare, jack and tool presence

Interior & electrical

Lights, switches, A/C, infotainment, warning indicators.

• Every exterior and interior light operated
• All switches, windows, locks and mirrors
• A/C output temperature and heater function
• Infotainment, camera and sensor operation
• Warning lights at key-on and after start
• Seat, upholstery and trim condition
• Water intrusion and odor check

Road test

Performed when the seller allows it, with the inspector riding along.

• Acceleration and power delivery under load
• Braking behavior, pull and vibration
• Steering tracking and return
• Noise, vibration and harshness assessment
• Transmission behavior at road speed
• Cruise, driver aids and safety systems where fitted

EV & hybrid

Battery health checks when the vehicle and seller allow it, plus charging system checks and high-voltage component inspection. Tesla, Rivian, and hybrid drivetrains included.

Luxury & exotic

High-end vehicles carry high-end repair bills. Inspection scope and time expand accordingly, so these are quoted per vehicle.

Classic & collector

Originality, prior restoration work, rust in the places these cars rust, and whether the documentation matches the car in front of you.