We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Automotive

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What does an Auto Inspector do?

By Carol Francois
Updated: May 23, 2024
Views: 8,786
Share

An auto inspector is responsible for reviewing the details of a vehicle and providing a report. There are three types of auto inspection: safety, condition and ownership. All three inspections are performed for a fee and are valid for a specific time period.

When selecting an auto inspector, it is important to ensure that they are licensed auto mechanics or repair technicians. The value of the inspection is based on the level of knowledge and skill that the inspector has. An unlicensed mechanic can inspect a vehicle and miss items that are symptoms of a larger problem or issue.

Safety auto inspectors are responsible for checking your vehicle for basic driving safety. They look at the brakes, tires, lights, windshield, steering and transmission. This type of inspection is usually required when purchasing a used vehicle. Most states have a law that all cars must be certified as safe before a license plate is issued. No insurance company will provide coverage for an unsafe vehicle.

Condition auto inspections are done when purchasing a used car. Many people want an independent assessment of the mechanical and structural features of a car before they purchase it. This type of inspection can take between one and three hours to complete. The purpose of the inspection is to identify potential issues and future repair costs. This information is very valuable when negotiating on the price of a vehicle and the purchase decision.

If the salesperson misrepresented the actual mechanical condition of the vehicle, you may decide not to purchase any vehicle from their business. It is important to remember that maintenance is one of the most expensive aspects of car ownership. A thorough inspection provides the information necessary to make an informed decision.

An ownership check is part of the services provided by an auto inspector. They must check if there are any outstanding liens on the vehicle, if it has been reported stolen or in an accident. They also need to check for insurance claims for flood damage, minor damage or vandalism.

A lien is a legal document that is used by financing companies to indicate ownership of the vehicle. The holder of the lien has provided money, using the car as security for the loan. If the loan is not paid and the lien removed, the company has the right to seize the car. Ownership rights extend over state boarders, so it is important to check this carefully.

Share
WikiMotors is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
By mm311 — On Apr 08, 2009

Where can I get a Maryland state Auto Inspection education to become an Auto inspector? detailed information please thank you

Share
https://www.wikimotors.org/what-does-an-auto-inspector-do.htm
Copy this link
WikiMotors, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WikiMotors, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.