Pre-purchase Inspection

Be More Confident in Your Purchase

When buying a classic car or collector motor vehicle, especially sight-unseen, a detailed pre-purchase inspection can save you time, money, and headaches. Reasons for obtaining a pre-purchase inspection include:

Verifying representation
Is the seller being honest about the car’s condition?

Validating authenticity
Is the vehicle what the seller states it is?

Evaluating cosmetic condition
Has the car been repainted? If repaired due to damage, was it a quality repair using new old stock or high quality parts?

Identifying mechanical or safety issues
Does the car start, run and stop well? Are there leaks or noises that could lead to costly repairs after purchase? If it’s a project car or non-runner, is the engine seized? What components are missing?

Assessing modifications
Has the car been modified in a way that increases or decreases its value?

We find that informed buyers are happier buyers, and enjoying the classic car hobby is why we’re here.

Pre-purchase Inspection Options

We offer three tiers of pre-purchase inspections based on our clients’s needs. We encourage you to contact us to discuss your specific situation as factors such as where the collector car is located, how it is being sold (private party, auction, etc.) and your purchase time horizon all influence which pre-purchase inspection is right for you.

Virtual Appraisal

Our affordable quick appraisal option is performed online with digital documentation.*

Your report includes:
Brief condition summary
Condition grade
Fair market value
4 comparable sales references

*High-res photographs are required

Live Auction PPI

We inspect auction cars in-person to ensure your bids are based on a car’s true condition.

Your report includes:
Overall condition summary
Condition grade
Fair Market Value
4 comparable sales references
Cosmetic and visual mechanical condition
Documentary photographs

Comprehensive PPI

Our most rigorous inspection. We cover it all, including a road test of mechanical condition.

Your report includes:
Overall condition summary
Condition grade
Fair Market Value
4 comparable sales references
Cosmetic and mechanical condition
Road test results
Documentary photographs

Travel expenses are included in our fees for in-person inspections within a reasonable distance of Wolf and Mare’s home base. If you’re interested in a car outside our region, we are happy to travel to inspect vehicles for our clients.

We especially enjoy reviewing vehicles with our clients and walking you through our assessments face-to-face!

Download Sample Report

Sample Pre-purchase Inspection Report

Our Live Auction and Comprehensive Pre-purchase Inspections include a detailed vehicle condition report. Similar to a home inspection, our reports provide key information you need to be an informed buyer:

General vehicle information including make, model, trim level, VIN, etc.
VIN check
Exterior paint and body condition including functional inspection
Interior condition and correctness including function check for all features
Mechanical inspection of engine bay, undercarriage, suspension and tires
Engine start and road test (for operable vehicles)
Overall evaluation summary
Fair Market Value Estimate based on condition
Comparables
Photographs of any issues found

Stay Informed

Subscribe to our newsletter to be the first to receive new listings, market news and insights.