Can CarInspector.US bid on a vehicle at auction for me?

The short answer is, "No. We can't"; however, we do have relationships with a few trustworthy brokers.  Below is a short list of brokers, along with contact information and websites that you may find helpful.  

Click on one of the icons above to contact these brokers.  

 

 

What are the terms and conditions of the inspection?

Does CarInspector.US check the title or verify background of the vehicle?

No. The inspection does not include a background check of the vehicle.

Is this inspection guaranteed?

Subject to our terms and conditions, all inspections are guaranteed to be accurate at the time of the inspection. However, because the vehicle is fully assembled and the inspection is performed without the use of diagnostic equipment, there is the possibility of impending failures that are not evident at the time of the inspection. See terms and conditions here.

Do I have to pay for the inspection before it is actually done?

Yes, a credit card payment is required before the inspection will be scheduled.

What does the inspection entail?

Where possible, each vehicle is test driven to verify transmission and engine operation (see below for auction inspections). We check the level and condition of all accessible fluids (some vehicles have sealed units such as transmissions and the fluid levels of these units are not accessible). We test the operation of the climate control system. We evaluate the interior and exterior of the vehicle for any obvious damage or signs of repairs. We provide digital photographs of the vehicle and all damages found.

Note for vehicles at auctions: Vehicles inspected at auction facilities are NOT test driven.  Most auctions will not allow our inspectors to jump start the vehicle or carry any tools.  We will make every effort to start a vehicle with a dead battery, but there are times that the facility will not facilitate the inspectors request to jump start the vehicle.    For commercial vehicles, motor homes, and watercraft, the inspection will NOT include operation of accessory equipment such as booms, outriggers, stoves, refrigerators, sump pumps, etc... 

Does the inspector use any diagnostic equipment?

The inspection is done on location; therefore, we do not perform any diagnostic tests because we do not have access to diagnostic tools, computers, or lifts.

Starting Feb 1, 2021, inspections done at IAAI facilities will usually include OBDII codes and paint thickness.

What are the inspector's qualifications?

Most of our inspectors are experienced ASE certified mechanics that have been involved in the automotive industry for several years. Many of our inspectors hold manufacturer certifications. We even have some inspectors that are retired engineers.

Can the inspector call me from the vehicle location?

Unfortunately it is too time consuming to call customers for every inspection.  If you have special requests or requirements, please email us after you order your inspection and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

How long does the inspection process take?

Once payment is received the inspector will contact the vehicle owner to arrange the inspection. This usually will occur within 24 hours. The actual time the inspection takes place largely depends on the schedules of the inspector and vehicle owner. All orders received on Saturday and Sunday will be processed on Monday. We do not currently offer weekend service. Depending on the type of inspection, the actual inspection time will be anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours. Once the vehicle is inspected a link to the inspection report is emailed to you. Your report will be viewable from our web site within 24 hours after the inspection is completed.