Trusted German Car Pre-Purchase Inspection in Bellingham

Purchasing a used vehicle is often a cost-effective and wise decision. However, understanding the vehicle’s condition and whether the cost is appropriate for its condition can be stressful for many. That’s why we at Mint Automotive provide pre-purchase inspection to any model of automobile by our qualified technicians, so that you get the best deal available around Bellingham.

Steps of Pre-Purchase Inspection at Mint Automotive

A pre-purchase inspection occurs when a buyer of a used vehicle consults an independent technician or repair shop to assess the vehicle’s condition, with the seller’s permission. Choosing Mint Automotive as your pick for a pre-purchase inspection near Bellingham is a beneficial decision, as we provide comprehensive and thorough checks and give you a detailed report to make an informed decision.

Exterior Inspection

First and foremost, the exterior of the vehicle is inspected. It includes the check-up of the vehicle body for any scratches, dents, rust, flood damage, paint inconsistencies, and signs of previous repairs or paint jobs. Panel gaps and alignments are checked for cracks or bends, which are signs of prior accidents.

All the glasses are checked for any cracks and chips. The functionality of all the exterior lights, such as headlights, taillights, turn signals, and brake lights, is inspected. Tires are assessed for tread depth, even wear, and cracks, along with the condition of the rims.

Interior inspection

The interior inspection of the vehicle starts with checking the seats for any tears, rips, stains, or sagging. Then, the interior electronics, such as dashboard controls, infotainment system, power windows, and air conditioning, are checked to ensure they are working correctly. Special attention must be given to safety features, such as seatbelts and airbags, to ensure their accurate functionality.

Under-the-Hood Inspection

The underbody of the vehicle is checked for any rust and damage. As it houses the exhaust system, suspension components, and brake lines, signs of severe damage in this system are often visible here. Inspection for fluid leaks, such as oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, is done.

Mechanical Inspection

Mechanical inspection includes a thorough examination of the engine, transmission, suspension, steering, brakes, exhaust system, and battery.

Comprehensive engine checks include checking of fluid level and leaks (oil, coolants, power steering fluid, and brake fluids), unusual noises (knocks, hisses, and rattles), belts, and hoses. Engine cleanliness is checked for residual sludge and carbon dust. For older vehicles, a compression test is performed.

Assessment of transmission fluid level and condition, smooth shifting, unusual noises, and signs of slippage are conducted under transmission check. Suspension and steering are inspected for worn shocks, struts, bushings, and ball joints.

Brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, and brake performance are checked under brake inspection. Exhaust system checked for leaks, rust, and damage. A final battery test is done to assess the charging system and overall battery health.

Diagnostic Testing

Some modern car models also undergo diagnostic testing by connecting the onboard diagnostic system to a factory scan tool to check for stored or pending error codes related to the check engine light, ABS, and airbags.

Test Drive

After all these in-house inspections in our workshop at Ellis Street, the vehicle is taken for a test drive by our technician through the neighborhood of Bellingham. Then, the technician will drive the car at various speeds and under different road conditions to assess its overall performance, including acceleration, braking, handling, steering, and listen for any unusual noises or vibrations.

Vehicle History

After the mechanical inspections are done, we inspect the vehicle’s history and documentation with its VIN, or Vehicle Identification Number. Its registration status, financial records, lien records, salvage or write-off history, and odometer accuracy are inspected.

After the inspection is finished, Mint Automotive will give you a detailed report containing our mechanic’s assessment in the form of an itemized list of comments and concerns. We will inform you if the vehicle requires any repair work near Bellingham, along with a list of repairs and their estimated price. Apart from Bellingham, we also provide these services to surrounding areas, including Anacortes, Blaine, Ferndale, and Lynden.

To ease the pre-purchase inspection process, we offer you several additional perks that are unmatched by others. With the seller’s permission, we offer to pick up the car for inspection near Bellingham on your behalf. If you decide to come in person, then we offer pick-up and drop-off service. If you choose to stay nearby during the inspection, then you are welcome to enjoy your time by looking around our facility at Ellis Street or taking a stroll in the neighborhood of Bellingham.