Independent inspections
Pre-purchase car inspection reports for used cars
A pre-purchase inspection is an independent mechanical and cosmetic assessment of a used car carried out before you buy it. Autoquiry inspectors work a 28-point checklist across 7 categories, photograph what they find, and publish the result as a report you can read by VIN.
Why a used car inspection is worth doing
A used car is sold on the seller's description of it. A pre-purchase inspection replaces that description with an independent record: what the paint, frame, suspension, brakes, engine and diagnostics actually look like on the day someone qualified put the car on a lift and drove it.
That record does two things. It tells you whether to walk away from a car with structural repair or a failing drivetrain, and it gives you specific, photographed findings to negotiate with when the car is worth buying but needs work.
Autoquiry is not the seller and not the dealer. The inspector is assigned by us, works a fixed checklist, and the report is locked on submission — nobody edits it afterwards.
How an Autoquiry inspection works
A certified inspector goes hands-on
The car is inspected in person against the same checklist every time — no dealer self-reporting, no seller-supplied summary.
Findings, severity ratings and photos are recorded
Each of the 28 points gets a rating, an inspector note where it matters, and photographic evidence captured on site.
The report is locked and published
Once submitted, the report cannot be edited. What you read is what was found on the day of the inspection.
You find it by VIN and choose your depth
Search the vehicle identification number, then buy the Basic summary or the Full report with every answer and photo.
What the inspection covers
7 categories, 28 inspected points.
Exterior & Body
- Paint condition and finish
- Panel gaps and alignment
- Glass, lights, and mirrors
- Rust or corrosion
Interior & Electronics
- Seats and upholstery
- Dashboard warning lights
- Infotainment and controls
- Climate control (heat and A/C)
Under the Hood
- Engine start and idle quality
- Fluid levels and condition
- Leaks (oil, coolant, fuel)
- Belts, hoses, and battery
Undercarriage & Suspension
- Frame and structural integrity
- Suspension components
- Exhaust system
- Steering and drivetrain
Brakes & Tires
- Brake pad and rotor life
- Tire tread depth and wear pattern
- Wheels and rims
- Spare tire and tools
Road Test
- Acceleration and shifting
- Braking performance
- Steering, tracking, and alignment
- Noise, vibration, and harshness
Diagnostics & History
- OBD-II scan results
- Service records reviewed
- Recall check
- Odometer verification
What it costs
Instant VIN Check
$1.99Factory build data, open safety recalls, and stolen, salvage and flood-damage records. No inspection required.
Basic Report
$14.99Key condition highlights, overall score, and summary findings.
Full Report
$49.99Every category, every answer, inspector notes, and the complete photo set.
Report access lasts 180 days from purchase. All purchases are final and non-refundable.
Get a car inspected
You are buying
Found a car you want but need it checked first? Send us the VIN and where it is, and we will arrange the inspection.
Request an inspectionYou are selling
An independent report answers buyer doubts before they are raised. Offer your car for inspection and let the findings speak.
Offer a car for inspectionIn a hurry? An instant VIN check returns build data, recalls and theft records in seconds for $1.99.