All cars, trucks, SUVs, and minivans, prior to being added to our pre-owned vehicle inventory, need to clear a rigorous car or truck inspection checklist of all minor and major vehicle systems. The inspection includes many exact criteria which usually vary from one store to the next. This makes certain that every used car is in acceptable condition. Many items fall into three essential categorical buckets: service, mechanical, and electronic. Discover all that’s needed for a checklist for a used car inspection.
From DSG transmissions to the brakes, updated mechanical car parts dominate every function of today’s cars and it is imperative that they’re operating properly to stay safe and avoid accidents. A comprehensive mechanical inspection should cover these parts and others like engine components, CVT transmissions, drive systems, the car battery, the exhaust system, and cooling systems (hoses and the radiator). If the car is either a hybrid or an EV, the drive battery may only be serviced and inspected by a trained professional.
Now more than ever, today’s cars have complex electronics like computers, gauge clusters, touchscreens, navigation systems, and safety cameras. So it is imperative that they receive and pass the same meticulous inspections as the mechanical components. A meticulous electrical inspection includes all internal, external, and emergency lighting, as well as digital displays and running lights. Most necessary, however, are the proper functions of any onboard computers and any additional electronically controlled systems, such as the ignition, engine settings, braking systems, blind spot detection, and mobile phone integration.
A comprehensive vehicle inspection can uncover any current problems, but it might miss some problems that happened in the past. To fully understand the status of your car we partner with vehicle history professionals like CarFax or AutoCheck. These services find the full history of a car and will typically provide info like warranty service, mileage inconsistencies, oil changes, title problems, and previous accidents. Realizing the full history of the car you’re wanting to purchase allows you to make the best decision you can.
Sterling McCall Toyota invites you to buy, sell, or trade with us, online or in-person. Our pre-owned vehicle inspections are rigorous and our vehicles are guaranteed for quality. Experience a real difference in car-buying. Visit us today for a great selection of new, used, and certified pre-owned cars, trucks, SUVs, and minivans in Houston, TX. Our friendly Toyota team is standing by to serve you.