Questions and answers
Is this a safety certificate?
No. A safety standards certificate confirms that the vehicle met the minimum safety standards on the date it was issued, and it's what lets the car be plated. A pre-purchase inspection covers the whole car: what's worn, what's been repaired, what the computer has logged, and what condition every system is in. Most buyers want both.
Do I need to be there?
No. If the inspection is paid in advance, William goes on his own. You're welcome to come along, and it can be helpful, because he'll show you what he's finding as he works. Either way you get the report and a call to go through it.
How soon can you come, and when do I get the report?
Most inspections happen within 12 to 24 hours of booking, depending on the schedule; same-day is $50 extra. You receive the Buyer Report within 45 minutes of the inspection finishing, pending payment.
What does the seller need to have ready?
The vehicle ownership and a working key. William checks the VIN on the ownership against the VIN on the car before he starts, so the inspection requires it. He'll also ask whether there are two working keys. Mention both to the seller when you agree on a time.
Where do you inspect the car?
We run mobile vehicle inspections across York Region and the GTA, with no travel charge. Dealership lots, private driveways and parking garages all work. Outside the GTA, travel is $25 to $75 depending on the destination.
What vehicles do you inspect?
Passenger cars, SUVs, minivans and pickup trucks, including hybrids and EVs. If you're looking at something else, call and ask.
How do I get a used car inspected before I buy it?
Find the car, agree with the seller on a time it can be seen, and book with us. William drives out, inspects it, and sends you the Buyer Report. Most sellers, private or dealer, are used to a buyer bringing a mechanic.
What if the car sells before you get there, or I need to cancel?
Give us at least two hours' notice and we'll refund your deposit by e-transfer, or move the booking to the next car you find. If you cancel with less notice, or William arrives and the car isn't there or isn't ready, we keep the deposit as a credit toward your next inspection.
Will the seller get a copy of the report?
No, unless you choose to share it. The report is yours, and you decide what to show the seller and what to use in the negotiation.
Does the road test need anything from the seller?
The car has to be plated and insured to go on the road. If it isn't, or the seller won't allow a road test, we do everything else and say so in the report.
Can I talk to William after I get the report?
Yes. Call the number on the report and he'll go through it with you before you decide.
How do I pay?
We take a deposit of half the price, up to $100, when you book. We email you a payment request for it, and your booking is confirmed once it's paid. You pay the balance by e-transfer, PayPal or cash before you receive the report. If you won't be at the inspection, we ask for the full amount in advance. We don't take cheques, and you get an invoice for every inspection.
Does the inspection guarantee the car?
No. The report describes the car's condition at the time and place of the inspection, based on what could be seen and tested without taking anything apart. It is a record of the car on the day, not a promise about the year ahead, so you go into the purchase knowing what you're buying.
Do you do repairs?
Light mechanical work at your driveway: brakes, batteries, wipers and similar, priced per job. Ask when you book, or once you've read the report. The report says what the car needs whether or not you have us do it.
Found a car? Have it inspected before you buy it.
Tell us where the car is and when it can be seen. You'll have the report the same day it's inspected.