check out a used car before you buy? (F150, credit, selling)

[58robbo]

any companies who you can pay to check out a used car before you buy? i've just moved back home and need a car for myself and one for my wife. i don't really want to buy a new car but i'm also scared of buying used without having it checked out first

[sunsprit]

You'll need to find an independent repair shop that can provide this service for you. Call around to the shops that specialize in the type of car you're considering purchasing and get their take on what it may cost to do this. Narrow your selection to the cars that interest you and then have them checked out.

The cost to do this may be very worthwhile. A lot depends upon what type/price range of merchandise you're looking at to begin with. You may want to start your search by checking out the recommendations for used cars at your price point(s) in Consumer Reports for cars that fill your needs and have the better reliability reports.

[AlfredB1979]

I used a company called AutoExam for my F150, recommended by my credit union. If they are somehow not in your locale, do what I did and ask the right people

[johnnytang24]

I've gotten in inspection from SGS: SGS - inspection, verification, testing & certification services

Not bad, I consider it worth the $100.

[johnnytang24]

Oh, and if you don't know much about cars, you can inspect the person selling it.

[thriftylefty]

I would start out finding a reliable mechanic who can steer you to the most reputable used car dealers in your town. You will need him anyway down the line. He may know of a car he has serviced that is for sale. Some shops advertise that they will do a "drive-ability" test for a fee.