Pre-Purchase Inspection in Elkhart, IN
Buying used? We inspect it top-to-bottom before you sign.
What is pre-purchase inspection?
A pre-purchase inspection can save you $5,000–$15,000 in hidden repairs. We spend 90 minutes going through the vehicle bumper-to-bumper — engine, brakes, suspension, frame, electrical, tires, and accident history — then hand you a written report you can bring back to the seller.
Warning signs your car needs pre-purchase inspection
- You're buying a used vehicle from a private seller
- You're considering a dealer used-car purchase
- You want a second opinion before a big commitment
Our process
- 1Full underbody and frame inspection on a lift
- 2OBD-II scan and module check
- 3Compression and leak-down test (if warranted)
- 4Road test to feel drivetrain, brakes, and steering
- 5Written report with photos and repair estimates
- Independent from dealers — we work for you
- Report you can email to the seller
- Estimates for any repairs found
- Same-day turnaround
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring the vehicle myself?
Yes — you or a friend. We need to keep it 90 minutes, and the seller usually needs their keys back.
What if the seller says no to an inspection?
Walk away. Any honest seller has zero problem with an independent inspection.
Will you tell me what to negotiate?
Yes — the report includes repair estimates you can use directly.
Why Michiana drivers choose us for pre-purchase inspection
Elkhart, Goshen, Mishawaka, South Bend, and Granger drivers bring their vehicles to Michiana Auto Werks because we treat pre-purchase inspection as safety-critical work — not a rushed upsell. Our shop invests in OEM-level scan tools, factory-spec parts, and ongoing ASE training so the repair we quote is the repair your vehicle actually needs. Every job is documented with photos and written notes so you leave with the same understanding a dealer service advisor would give you — without the dealer markup.
We also stand behind the work in writing. Every pre-purchase inspection repair is covered by our 24-month, 24,000-mile nationwide warranty, honored at over 17,000 partner shops in North America. If a part we install fails within the warranty window — anywhere — the repair is covered.
Pre-Purchase Inspection cost, lifespan, and what to expect
$185 flat rate. Report emailed same-day.
Most pre-purchase inspection work is same-day. Larger jobs are quoted with a firm pickup time before we start.
24 months / 24,000 miles nationwide on parts and labor — every time.
Waiting on pre-purchase inspection work almost always costs more than fixing it early. A worn set of brake pads left too long can score a rotor; a small coolant leak can crack a head; a slipping transmission can turn into a rebuild. If you're seeing any of the warning signs above, book a diagnostic — we'll tell you exactly where you stand.
Recent reviews about pre-purchase inspection
"Diagnosed my check engine light in 45 minutes when three other shops just kept throwing parts at it. Actually explained what was wrong. Going nowhere else."
"Brought my 2018 Accord in for brakes. They texted me photos of the worn pads before doing anything and the price was exactly what they quoted. Fast, honest, done."