Buying a car sight unseen—especially a used one—comes with risks. You can check the Carfax, review maintenance records, and even take it for a test drive, but none of that guarantees the car is exactly what it seems. That’s where a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) comes in.

A PPI is a crucial step that can save you from costly surprises, ensuring the vehicle is both authentic and mechanically sound before you commit.

How a PPI Protects You from Fraud

Fraud in the used car market is more common than most buyers realize. Odometer rollbacks, VIN cloning, and undisclosed accident damage are just a few tricks shady sellers use to offload problem cars. A qualified mechanic performing a PPI can verify that the vehicle’s history aligns with its actual condition—giving you peace of mind before making a purchase.

Catching Hidden Damage & Costly Repairs—Including Paint Damage

Even when fraud isn’t in play, a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) can uncover pre-existing mechanical issues, structural damage, or major upcoming maintenance needs:

Frame or flood damage may not be visible to the untrained eye but can compromise safety and performance.
Prior accident damage and poor repainting can hide deeper structural issues, affecting both the integrity of the vehicle and its resale value.
Worn brakes, tires, or suspension components could mean a hefty repair bill shortly after purchase.
Engine or transmission issues that aren’t obvious on a short test drive could cost thousands in repairs.

By identifying these problems upfront, you can negotiate a lower price, request repairs, or walk away entirely—saving yourself from expensive headaches down the road.

The Tools of a Thorough PPI

A professional mechanic uses specialized tools during a PPI to detect hidden issues that the average buyer might overlook. Some of the most common include:

OBD-II Scanner – Detects hidden trouble codes, past engine issues, and emissions readiness.

Paint Depth Gauge – Identifies repainted areas, which could indicate previous accidents.

Borescope Camera – Inspects hard-to-see areas like inside engine cylinders or behind panels.

Brake Fluid & Coolant Testers – Checks for contamination or overdue maintenance.

Compression Tester – Measures cylinder compression to assess engine health.

Chassis & Frame Measuring Tools – Confirms frame alignment and accident history.

Tire Tread Depth Gauge – Identifies uneven wear, which can indicate alignment or suspension problems.

With the right tools and expertise, a PPI uncovers issues that could cost thousands if left undetected.

Finding the Right Mechanic for a PPI

Not all mechanics are created equal—especially when it comes to pre-purchase inspections. Choosing the right professional can mean the difference between a well-informed decision and an expensive mistake.

Reputation Matters

When selecting a mechanic for a PPI, reputation is everything. Look for shops with strong reviews, word-of-mouth recommendations, and experience with the specific vehicle you’re considering. While general repair shops may offer basic inspections, a specialist who knows the car inside and out can identify hidden issues that others might miss.

Brand Specialists: The Key to a Thorough Inspection

Certain vehicles require a specialist with factory training, dealer-level diagnostic tools, and intimate knowledge of common problem areas. For example:

Porsche – Air-cooled 911s, water-cooled Boxsters, and modern 992s each have their own quirks. A Porsche specialist will know to check for bore scoring, IMS bearing issues (on certain models), and over-rev reports via the ECU.

Ferrari – Many Ferraris require engine-out services for timing belt changes. A Ferrari specialist will check for deferred maintenance, sticky interior buttons (a common issue), and excessive track use.

Lamborghini – Certain models, like the Gallardo, share components with Audi, but their transmissions and E-gear clutches require specialist insight to gauge wear.

BMW M Cars & Mercedes-AMG – These high-performance models have unique cooling systems, rod-bearing concerns (on some M engines), and software updates that a specialist will recognize.

Supercar & Exotic Owners Take PPIs to the Next Level

For high-end exotics, a PPI isn’t just recommended—it’s essential. Many supercar buyers won’t rely on just any local mechanic. Instead, they fly in their own trusted expert to inspect the car, no matter where it’s located.

Buyers of Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren, and Rolls-Royce models often hire factory-certified mechanics to travel across the country—or even internationally—for inspections.

Some buyers arrange for the car to be transported to specialty tuning shops (like RENNtech for AMG models or Sharkwerks for Porsche) for a full diagnostic evaluation.

Certain high-end dealerships even offer remote video inspections for buyers who can’t be present, ensuring complete transparency.

When spending six or seven figures on a car, the cost of a flight and inspection fee is minor compared to the potential repair bills if something is overlooked.

A PPI is an Investment, Not an Expense

Whether you’re buying a $15,000 used car or a $500,000 supercar, a PPI is always worth the investment. Spending a few hundred dollars upfront can save thousands—or even tens of thousands—by exposing hidden issues before they become your problem.

A Few Pennies Now, Big Savings Later

Spending a little on a PPI today can prevent financial loss tomorrow. It’s a simple, smart step that turns an educated guess into an informed decision.

Want to Learn More?

Check out our Spotlight Series, where we sit down with Mike Keane from Keane’s Autoworks to dive deeper into PPIs and why they’re a must for every used car buyer.

As a member of our community, you have access to exclusive insights and expert recommendations. We invite you to share your experiences and join a network of passionate car collectors. Have you filed a claim? Did your insurer go above and beyond? Or do you have questions about coverage for unique collections? Share your stories and insights with us, helping fellow collectors make informed decisions.

This is just the beginning. We’re excited to dive deeper into collector car insurance, exploring topics like vintage car restoration coverage, international transport insurance, and more. Stay tuned for future articles and exclusive content. If you would like to contribute to an upcoming blog post, please do not hesitate to get in touch by filling out the form below!

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Written by Dana Acabbo & Stephen Mills