Car Inspection

When obtaining a vehicle through a lease take over, it is essential to get it inspected. This inspection will give you a clear idea of its condition. The initial contract with the dealership stipulates that everything that is considered as normal “wear-and-tear” for the vehicle is not to be charge to the lessee. This means that whatever is not considered normal wear could be your responsibility.

First, you need to bring someone with you that has minimal knowledge of car mechanics. Not only will this give you more about the condition of the car, but it will also give you a different opinion, given that this person is not a part of the transaction.

When you meet the seller and the vehicle for the first time, check the paint, verify the space between the panels, and verify that the joints are well placed. If any of the preceding seems uneven it could be a sign of a past accident. You can also verify all the electronic accessories of the vehicle to make sure they all function properly. Then, test-drive the vehicle. Make sure to simulate realistic driving scenarios and, if possible, your everyday usage of the car. Take a path that you already know and use frequently. Ask politely, the seller, to keep quiet while driving to make sure you pick up on any unusual sounds. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask the seller.

Ask the seller to give you the history of what has already been fixed on the vehicle. This will give you a good idea of the cost of general repairs and what also still needs to be done.

Finally, ask the seller to get the car inspected yourself. If the seller does not allow you to do so, you should not go any further. On the other hand, if he accepts, proceed. You can have the vehicle inspected at a garage that you trust, e.g. at a Canadian Tire, a CAA mechanical inspection center , a CAA certified garage or at a garage accredited by the APA(Automobile Protection Association; the technician can travel to your location for the inspection). The cost of the inspection varies from one place to another, but keep in mind that it is a good investment because it could save you a whole lot of problems!