What our pre-purchase inspection covers
- Full diagnostic scan of every module with factory-level tools: BMW ISTA, Mercedes XENTRY, Porsche PIWIS-level, VW/Audi ODIS-level and JLR Pathfinder-level
- Stored and historic fault codes, including ones the seller may have cleared recently
- Paint-depth readings on every panel to spot repaints and body filler
- Frame, structure and underbody for collision repairs, rust and impact damage
- Engine and transmission: leaks, mounts, belts, cooling system, fluid condition
- Brakes, tires and suspension: pad and rotor life, tire age and wear pattern, bushings and air suspension
- Electrical and comfort: windows, roof, A/C performance, infotainment, cameras and driver-assist systems
- Flood signs: silt, corrosion and moisture under carpets and in connectors
- Road test with a technician listening for noises and watching gearbox behavior
- Written report with photos sent to your phone, with items ranked by urgency
Brand-specific checks
| Make | What we look at closely |
|---|---|
| BMW | Oil filter housing and valve cover leaks, cooling system plastics, VANOS and timing chain noise |
| Mercedes-Benz | AIRMATIC struts and compressor, 7G and 9G-Tronic shift quality, balance shaft and timing on older V6 and V8 |
| Porsche | Over-rev data from PIWIS-level scans, IMS and bore scoring risk on older 996, 997 and Boxster models, PDK health |
| Audi and VW | DSG mechatronics, carbon buildup on direct-injection engines, quattro and Haldex service history |
| Land Rover and Range Rover | Air suspension, coolant leaks on Ingenium and supercharged V8 engines, electrical faults |
| Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren | Clutch wear where the car records it, F1 or dual-clutch gearbox, front lift, sticky interior trim |
| Tesla, Rivian, Lucid | Battery health, charging, suspension wear, panel gaps and paint |
Why an independent PPI matters
A seller’s inspection report is written for the seller. A dealer’s certified pre-owned checklist covers what the program requires and no more. We work for you, the buyer. We tell you what we found, what it will cost to fix in written-estimate terms, and what can wait. That gives you real leverage when you negotiate, or the confidence to walk away.
Buying in South Florida
Cars here face heat, humidity and salt air, and some have sat through high water. A clean Carfax does not always mean a clean car. We pay extra attention to:
- A/C performance, because a weak system in this climate often means a failing compressor or condenser
- Rubber and plastic aging from sun and heat: hoses, seals, wiper cowls and trim
- Corrosion on brake parts and underbody fasteners on cars kept near the beach
- Water intrusion from clogged sunroof drains and failed seals. Learn more on our flood-damaged car repair page.
For dealers and private sellers
Dealers and used-car lots can use our inspections before listing a car. See dealer reconditioning and pre-sale inspections. Private sellers who want a report to show buyers are welcome too.
Booking an inspection
Call either shop or request an estimate with the year, make, model and VIN. Ask the seller to bring the car to Oakland Park or Fort Lauderdale. If you are buying from out of town, we send the photo report so you can decide from wherever you are. Both shops are open 7 days, 8 AM – 7 PM, with ASE-certified, factory-trained technicians.
