Expert Care for
Pre-Purchase Car Inspection
Independent mobile pre-purchase inspection before you buy a used car in San Diego.
Pre-Purchase Car Inspection
Buying a used car is one of the biggest purchases most people make on the least information. A pre-purchase inspection (PPI) from Novo Repairs gives you an independent, professional assessment before you hand over any money — and because we're mobile, we come to the seller's location, whether it's a private party in your neighborhood or a dealership lot across town. Our certified technician inspects the engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, tires, fluids, and electronics, scans the onboard computer for stored and pending trouble codes, and checks for evidence of accident damage or hidden leaks. You get a clear, honest report of the car's real condition and any repairs it will need — so you can negotiate with confidence or walk away from a costly mistake. We work for you, not the seller.
Common Issues We See
- Buying from a private seller – Private sales are as-is with no warranty, so an independent inspection is your only protection.
- Considering a dealership used car – Dealer lots vary widely; a PPI confirms whether the car matches the listing.
- Out-of-area or online purchase – We inspect a car you can't easily see in person and report its true condition.
- High-mileage or older vehicle – Catches deferred maintenance and looming repairs before they become your problem.
- Negotiating the price – A documented list of needed repairs is leverage to bring the price down.
Our Service Process
- 1
Schedule at the seller's location – We coordinate with you and the seller to inspect the car wherever it is.
- 2
Visual & under-vehicle inspection – We check the body, frame, tires, suspension, and look for leaks and accident evidence.
- 3
Mechanical assessment – We evaluate the engine, transmission, brakes, and steering for proper operation.
- 4
Computer scan – We read stored and pending trouble codes that may not show as a warning light yet.
- 5
Written report – You get a clear summary of condition, needed repairs, and our honest recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a pre-purchase inspection cost in San Diego?
A mobile PPI is a flat, upfront fee — typically $150–$250 depending on the vehicle — and far less than the cost of buying a car with hidden problems. We confirm the price before we schedule.
Do you come to the seller's location?
Yes — that's the advantage of a mobile PPI. We inspect the car wherever it is, at a private seller's home or a dealership lot, anywhere across San Diego and Orange County.
What does the inspection cover?
Engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, steering, tires, fluids, and electronics, plus an OBD-II scan for stored and pending codes and a check for accident or leak evidence — summarized in a written report of the car's real condition.
Can a dealer refuse a pre-purchase inspection?
A reputable seller will allow an independent inspection. If a seller refuses to let you have the car inspected, that's a strong signal to walk away.
Will you tell me whether I should buy the car?
Yes. We work for you, not the seller, so you get an honest recommendation and a clear list of any repairs the car needs — useful for negotiating or deciding to pass.
Why It Matters
Professional service ensures longevity, safety, and performance for your vehicle. Our mobile team brings shop-grade quality to your driveway.
Book Your Service Today
Contact Novo Repairs now for reliable mobile service. Our team will identify the issue and get your car running again with professional, on-site service you can trust.
Call Now — (858) 868-1590Speak with our team to schedule service and receive a quote.
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