Dallas Mobile Mechanic
Why get an inspection
A used car can look great and drive fine around the block while hiding expensive problems. An independent inspection costs far less than one surprise repair, and it gives you leverage: a list of what the car needs is a strong reason to ask for a lower price.
Watch for flood and hail damage
North Texas sees heavy storms. Hail is a regular spring threat across the Dallas area, and flooding from big storms anywhere in Texas and the Gulf Coast puts water-damaged cars back on the market, sometimes far from where the water was. A flood car can have a clean-looking interior and still hide corrosion and electrical problems. Hail repairs range from expert to sloppy. An inspection looks for the signs: silt in hidden places, corrosion under the dash and seats, mismatched paint and panel gaps.
What we check
- Engine: leaks, noises, belts, hoses, fluids, and a scan for stored and pending trouble codes
- Transmission behavior on a test drive
- Brakes, suspension, steering and tires
- Battery and charging system
- AC and heat (it matters in Dallas)
- Body and frame: accident repair, rust, flood and hail signs
- Lights, windows, locks and the electrical features you'll use every day
Meet us at the car
Book with the address where the car is parked: the seller's driveway, a dealer lot, wherever. Put the seller's name and phone number in the notes if we need to coordinate. After the inspection, your mechanic walks you through what they found, so you know what the car really needs and what it might cost.
Questions
Will a seller let you inspect the car?
Most honest sellers welcome it. If a seller refuses an independent inspection, take that as a warning sign.
How long does an inspection take?
Usually about an hour, including a test drive when the seller allows it.
Do I need to be there?
It helps but isn't required. Your mechanic can share findings with you by phone.