Question 1

What is a pre-purchase inspection (PPI)?

Accepted Answer

A pre-purchase inspection is a 60–90 minute hands-on examination of a used car by an independent mechanic before you commit to buying it. A typical PPI costs $100–$150 and is the single best money a used-car buyer can spend — a mechanic on a lift sees what a test drive misses.

Question 2

How is an AutoVetting checklist different from a generic PPI?

Accepted Answer

Generic mechanics inspect everything equally. AutoVetting checklists are vehicle-specific — they name the failure patterns documented for that exact year/make/model: VVT-i oil hoses on 2010 RX 350s, MDS lifters on Ram Hemis, K1 timing-chain tensioners on early Mk6 GTIs. The buyer walks in knowing what to ask, and the mechanic spends time where it matters.

Question 3

Can I bring this checklist to my own mechanic?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Print or text the checklist to any shop you trust. It's the same checklist our network of vetted Phoenix shops will use, so the format is mechanic-friendly. If you'd like a vetted shop near you instead, the Phoenix network launches Summer 2026.

Question 4

What does each risk level mean?

Accepted Answer

Critical Risk: must inspect, undriveable if failed. High Attention: known failure pattern with $1,000+ repair cost. Monitor: documented wear point worth tracking but not immediate. Low Risk: standard wear, expected at the mileage. No Known Issues: not a documented failure point on this vehicle.

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