Buying a Used BMW: Don’t Skip the Pre-Purchase Inspection

A BMW pre-purchase inspection is important before buying any used car. But when you plan to buy a used BMW, Porsche or another high-performance European automobile, an inspection is even more essential before laying your money down. Because these vehicles hold their value extremely well, even a used BMW will be an investment. Whether it’s a good investment or a bad one depends partly on doing your due diligence. Request and review a vehicle history report, but don’t stop there. Contacting a local, independent pre-purchase inspector to schedule an all-important inspection will help ensure that your investment is sound.

Use an Experienced Inspector for Pre-Purchase Inspection

Even if your brother-in-law worked as a mechanic all his life, he may not be the right choice for your used vehicle inspection. Trust this important service to an expert who is experienced with high-performance, European cars. Beware the seller who demands that you conduct your inspection with his or her mechanic of choice. Go into the transaction with the intention of paying for the pre-purchase evaluation yourself, and hold your ground on using the auto repair expert that you choose.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Tips for Success

If you plan on buying a used BMW long-distance (located in another city/state) or without a warranty, it is definitely a MUST that you get a pre-purchase inspection. A major risk is at stake if not. If you plan to purchase a used BMW or another European car from a dealer, don’t let that dissuade you from getting an inspection from an independent inspector like German Precision. Don’t agree to have the dealer conduct the inspection.

Beware of Pre-Purchase Inspection Red Flags

Any used vehicle is likely to have a few minor flaws, and the older the car, the more issues you can expect. Depending on your time, budget and willingness to invest, you may agree to purchase a car that needs work. If you want to avoid the hassle, however, you can look for specific red-flag conditions. If the car’s prior owner(s) did not stay on top of periodic maintenance, safety recalls and required repairs, proceed with caution. Likewise, if the vehicle has ever been in an accident, beware of potential frame damage. Vehicle history reports do not always include major, damaging events. It’s important to look for signs of water damage too.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist and Price

Once your potential used BMW is being inspected by a BMW service provider, it’s common for a few minor flaws to show up on the pre-purchase inspection. Finding these minor flaws can actually help in the overall price negotiation process if you do buy the used vehicle. A thorough inspection should cover over 125 items in the following areas (not limited to): • Overall condition of the BMW • Visual problems with the body and frame • Leaks and broken components • Engine analysis and problems • Road test The following past problems can be identified by a qualified BMW mechanic while inspecting the vehicle: • Frame damage • Poor repair work • Car previously owned by a smoker • Flood damage Prices vary from BMW shop to BMW shop and are dependent on how thorough of a pre-purchase inspection you choose for your potential BMW. The more detailed and extensive an inspection, the more it will cost you - but the more it could save you in the long run. In the end, it is worth the money purchasing a pre-purchase inspection, in the long-run, to avoid costly repair bills that can add up in the future. So buy your used dream BMW with confidence, knowing you’ve taken the appropriate measures and gotten a pre-purchase inspection.
If you are looking for a professional pre-purchase car inspector in Melbourne, do not hesitate to contact German Precision today!
source: bimmershops, wasatchmotorwerks