Pre-Purchase Inspection for Import Cars in Athens, GA
Used imports are either great deals or money pits. It is hard to tell which from a test drive. That is why Athens Import Auto Repair offers a pre-purchase inspection for import cars in Athens, GA. We look the car over before you hand over the money.
Pre-Purchase Inspection done right, by people who know imports
We put the car on a lift and go through it piece by piece. Every computer gets a scan, and we check for leaks, rust and old crash repairs. Then we give you a plain report.
Lots of UGA students and families buy used cars near Athens. A short visit to our shop can save you from a bad one. Call 706-353-3880 and we will set it up.
Used BMW and Mini Cooper models need a close look at the timing chain and oil leaks. We test used Nissan and early Honda CVTs for shudder and hesitation. Subaru Outback and Forester models from before 2012 may have head gasket seepage. We check Audi and VW turbo engines for oil use. Land Rover Discovery and Range Rover models need an air suspension check. We know these weak spots, and we check every one at our shop in Athens, GA.
When you should get a used import checked
- You found a used BMW, Audi or Mercedes-Benz online. The price seems too good to be true.
- The seller has no service records.
- The check engine light was cleared right before you looked at it.
- The car has a salvage or rebuilt title.
- You are buying from a private seller with no return option.
- The car is a model known for a costly problem, like a timing chain or head gasket.
What our buyer's check covers
Full computer scan
We scan the engine, transmission, ABS, airbag and body modules. Cleared codes still leave clues, and we find them.
Engine and leak check
We look for oil and coolant leaks from above and below. Belts, hoses and fluids get a look too.
Body and frame check
We look for paint work, bent metal and hidden crash damage. Then we check for rust under the car.
Brakes, tires and suspension
We measure the pads and tires. Then we check the shocks, struts and bushings for wear.
Road test
We drive the car and feel for pulls, noises and bad shifts. Some problems only show up at speed.
Model specific checks
Each brand has weak spots, so we check the ones that match the car you are looking at.
How a pre-purchase inspection works
Call us with the details
Tell us the year, make and model. Then we will tell you what to bring and when.
Bring the car to the shop
You or the seller drops it off at 835 Winterville Rd. We need the car for part of the day.
We inspect and scan
We lift it, scan it, road test it and check the body closely.
We go over the report
We walk you through what we found, and then you decide if the car is worth it.
Why drivers trust us with pre-purchase inspection
We know what breaks
We have fixed imports since 1991, so we know which model years have costly problems.
A report you can use
You get a plain list of what is good and what is not. Then you can use it to walk away or to bargain.
No stake in the sale
We do not sell cars, so we only tell you what we see.
James has been here for 25 years and knows how to fix your issue with your import. Honest and took really good care of my mini cooper.
Carpenter, K., customerPre-Purchase Inspection FAQ
Do you do a pre-purchase inspection for import cars in Athens, GA?
Yes, we do. Athens Import Auto Repair inspects used imports before you buy. We scan the computers, check for leaks and damage, and road test the car. Call 706-353-3880 and we will set a time.
What should I check before buying a used BMW?
Look at oil leaks, the cooling system and the timing chain. Ask for service records, and then have a shop put it on a lift. We do this every week for buyers near Athens and UGA.
Can the seller hide a check engine light?
Yes, but only for a short time. A cleared code leaves the computer in a not ready state, and our scan tool can see that. It tells us the light was cleared.
How long does a buyer's inspection take?
Plan on leaving the car for part of the day. We need time to lift it, scan it and drive it. When you call, we will give you a clear time.
Is a used Nissan with a CVT a bad idea?
Not always, but you should test it carefully. Nissan CVTs from about 2007 to 2015 had a high failure rate. That is why we check for shudder, whine and slow response on our road test.
Do you inspect cars for sale in Watkinsville or Oconee County?
Yes, if you can bring the car to our shop in Athens. We are on Winterville Road, near the Loop 10 bypass. Most sellers will drive it over for a serious buyer.
Related services
Buying a used import? Let's look first
Call us or book your visit. A short check now can save you from a big bill later.
Open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm. After hours, leave a message or send the form and we will call you back.
Send us a message
Tell us your car and what you notice. We will call you back during shop hours.
If the form does not show, call 706-353-3880.