How to choose an inspector to check a car before you buy

Most buyers commit the same error when picking someone to inspect a car: they book the first available option or the cheapest quote, then assume the job will be done properly. In reality, the inspector you choose shapes what gets examined, how thoroughly, and whether you'll catch costly hidden faults before you hand over your money. A poor choice often means paying for a document that looks official but misses the problems that matter, regardless of what it cost.

The real separation between inspectors lies in their technical depth, their transparency about what they'll check, and whether they're set up to spot the specific issues common to the make, model and age you're buying. Unlike a roadworthy test—which is a pass-or-fail checklist for legal road use—a pre-purchase inspection is detective work. You need someone who treats it that way.

Technical expertise in the specific vehicle type

Not all inspectors have equal knowledge of every car. Some specialise in older imports; others focus on newer local stock. An inspector familiar with common failure patterns in your target model will spot wear that a generalist might overlook.

Ask prospective inspectors directly: have they inspected this make and model before? How many times in the last year? Listen for concrete answers. Someone who says "I inspect all cars the same way" is already telling you they won't dig into the quirks that matter. If you're buying a 15-year-old Toyota, an inspector who specialises in Japanese vehicles will know where those models tend to rust, how their gearboxes behave at high mileage, and what warning signs to look for. That knowledge is worth more than a lower price.

Also ask whether they have specialised equipment for electrical and computer diagnostics, especially if the car is modern. Many faults on newer vehicles don't show up on a basic visual inspection; they need a proper scan tool.

Access, thoroughness and how they communicate findings

You also need to understand how the inspection will actually happen and what you'll receive at the end. This is where vague promises fall apart.

Before booking, ask these practical questions: How much time do they spend on each car? Will they put it on a hoist to check the underside thoroughly? Can they do a compression test or brake fluid analysis if you request it? Will they provide a detailed written report with photos, or just a verbal summary? Will they be available to explain findings over the phone afterward, or do you get a document and nothing more?

The best inspectors give you:

• A written report with dated photos showing condition (good and bad areas)
• Clear language about what's worn, what needs attention soon, and what's fine
• A willingness to answer follow-up questions without charging extra
• Honest assessment of repair costs likely to arise in the next 12 months

An inspector who rushes through a car in 30 minutes or emails you a generic template report two days later — at any price point — is cutting corners. One who spends 90 minutes, photographs problem areas, and gives you a call to walk through the findings is invested in your decision.

It also matters that they aren't beholden to the seller. Check whether they work independently or are tied to a dealership or franchise. An inspector who stands to profit if you buy the car has a conflict of interest; ask for references from buyers, not from dealers.

Price alone won't tell you whether an inspector is good. What matters is verifiable behaviour: how long they actually spend on the car, whether they put it on a hoist, whether they use proper diagnostic equipment, and whether their report is detailed and specific. An inspector who can't or won't answer these questions clearly is a bigger risk than one who simply charges less. What you need is time, expertise and honest diagnosis—not a rubber stamp. Whatever an inspection costs, confirming it covers the checks that matter to you is far cheaper than discovering a hidden engine problem or major rust damage six months after you've handed over your cash.

When you're ready to book, look for inspectors on Strove who have verified credentials, clear reviews from past buyers, and a detailed description of what their inspection covers. Read what other people say about whether they spotted real problems and explained findings clearly. That pattern tells you far more than a price alone.