Buying from a private seller
Private sales are usually as-is, and often come with no service records. We look the vehicle over before you hand over the money.
Pre-purchase car inspections in Williamstown, NJ
Before you buy a used car or truck, bring it to our shop and let us look it over. We check the engine, brakes, suspension and electrical, gas or diesel, then talk through what we found.
Call the shop(856) 689-4664
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When an inspection makes sense
A vehicle with high mileage
More miles mean more wear in the engine, brakes and suspension. We can point out what looks healthy and what may need work soon.
Out of state, unknown history
A vehicle from another state, an auction or an owner with no records comes with less history to go on. We look for leaks, worn parts and signs of past damage.
What we look at
Engine and fluids
We check the oil and coolant, look at belts and hoses, and watch for leaks or odd noises from the engine.
Brakes and suspension
We look at brake wear and check the suspension for worn parts, clunks or play.
Electrical, A/C and lights
We check dash warning lights, the battery and charging system, the A/C and heat, and the power windows and locks.
Pre-purchase inspection questions
Do you come to the seller, or do I bring the car to you?
Bring it to us. The inspection is done at our shop, 3985 Tuckahoe Rd in Williamstown. Ask the seller if you can drive it over, or meet them here.
Is a history report enough?
Not by itself. A history report covers what was reported, not how the vehicle is wearing today. A look at the vehicle itself can show leaks, worn parts and other problems a report may not list.
What happens if you find a problem?
We go over what we found and what it may need, so you can decide to buy, ask the seller to address it, or pass. The decision stays with you.
Can you tell if a used car has been in an accident?
Often there are clues, but not always. A look underneath can show bent or recently repaired parts, fresh or mismatched suspension pieces, and uneven wear that points to past damage. Some repairs are done well enough to hide, so we tell you what we see and what we can't confirm.
What records should I ask a seller for?
Service records and receipts for the bigger jobs, such as brakes, belts and fluid services, are the most useful. Records show how the vehicle has been kept up, including whether a timing belt was done if the engine has one, and they hint at what may be coming due. A seller with none is not necessarily hiding something, but it is a reason to look more closely.
Related services
Services to consider once the vehicle is yours.
Call the shop to set up a time
(856) 689-4664Not sure what it needs? Tell us what's going on, or send us a message.