By: Krisdy Riddle
The end of the year is arguably one of the best times to buy a car; dealerships are trying to clear out inventory and salesmen are striving to hit their end-of-the-year goals. Although the deals may be tempting, it is easy to get caught up in the excitement and miss red flags.
At Archers Auto Repair, we offer our customers a pre-purchase inspection designed to protect you from unexpected repair costs and give you peace of mind before making a major investment.
What’s a PPI?
A pre-purchase inspection (PPI) is a comprehensive evaluation performed by one of our ASE certified technicians. Unlike a quick test drive, a PPI looks at the vehicle’s critical systems – mechanical, electrical, and structural – to uncover hidden issues that may cost you later.
Our digital inspection includes detailed notes and photos, giving you a full picture of the vehicle’s current condition and any potential future concerns. This not only informs your decision but also strengthens your ability to have more negotiating power.
Benefits of PPI
• Save Money: By identifying potential problems before you buy the car, you can negotiate a fair price or decide to walk away from a purchase that could cost you a lot more in the long run.
• Gain Negotiating Power: You can use the inspection report to request repairs or price adjustments.
• Prevent Regret: You will know exactly what you’re buying so there are no surprises after the sale.
• Buy with Confidence: Buying a car can be stressful. Attaining a comprehensive understanding of how the vehicle was maintained and any upcoming required maintenance can help reduce stress.
What Happens During a PPI at Archers
Our ASE certified technicians do a full bumper-to-bumper inspection, including code scans and system checks. Key components of our PPI include:
• Exterior Inspection: We begin the inspection by examining the exterior of the vehicle for any signs of damage, dents, scratches, or rust. Checking for signs of inconsistencies or areas that have been repainted which could indicate previous damage.
• Interior Inspection: We assess wear and tear, and ensure the A/C, heating, and electronics function as they should. We also check accessories like power seats and windows.
• Mechanical Inspection: Under the hood inspection includes the engine, transmission, fluids, and overall performance, checking for leaks, noises, or other warning signs.
• Suspension, Steering, & Brakes: We evaluate how the car handles and inspect for vibrations, noises, or issues with steering and suspension components.
• Electrical and Safety Features: All lights, signals, seat belts, airbags, and dashboard warning systems are tested to ensure everything is in safe working order.
At Archers, we provide a clear, detailed report with honest recommendations without pressure, just sticking to facts.
How To Schedule a PPI
We offer PPIs at both of our Caldwell and Nampa locations. Schedule online or give us a call:
• Caldwell: (208) 402-1021
• Nampa: (208) 505-5877
Don’t just buy a car, buy it with confidence. If you need help making a smart purchase you can feel good about, just take it to Archers.
Disclaimer: While we can’t predict the future, we can provide an honest and educated assessment of the current condition of the vehicle based on what we can physically inspect.
