Posted on 12/19/2025
Shopping for a used car can feel a bit like a gamble. The paint shines, the test drive feels fine, and the price looks good, so it is tempting to sign the papers and hope for the best. The problem is that many of the most expensive issues hide under the car, inside the engine, or in the electronics, where a quick look around the lot will never spot them. A pre-purchase inspection is your chance to see what the car is really like before your money changes hands. Why a Pre-Purchase Inspection Matters More Than a Test Drive A short test drive tells you how the car feels right now, not what it has been through. Sellers can clear warning lights temporarily, top off fluids, and clean the interior so the vehicle presents well. What you do not see is whether it has old accident damage, overdue maintenance, or worn parts that are just starting to make noise. When a ... read more