Sample report
This is what "knowing" looks like
Below is a complete sample of the report you receive after every inspection — fictional, anonymized data shown for illustration. Findings are ranked so you instantly see what needs money now, what needs a plan, and what's just worth knowing.
Overall condition summary
Structurally sound, well-kept vehicle consistent with its mileage. Two items need attention shortly after purchase (front brakes, right-rear tire) and three maintenance items are approaching due. One prior cosmetic repair was detected on the left-front fender with no structural indicators. Road test was normal apart from a mild highway vibration, most likely tire-related.
Category status
Immediate concerns
Immediate Front brake pads at ~2 mm; rotors lipped
Both front pads are near the wear limit with pronounced rotor lips. Budget for a front brake job soon after purchase. Photo 14–16.
Immediate Right-rear tire: inner-edge wear and 2019 date code
Uneven inner wear suggests an alignment issue; the tire is also 6+ years old. Recommend alignment check and tire replacement. Photo 17–19.
Maintenance items
Plan ahead Engine oil dark and slightly low
Oil is due for a change; no metallic sheen observed. Ask the seller for service records to confirm the interval.
Plan ahead Serpentine belt showing surface cracking
Typical age-related wear. Inexpensive to replace; plan for it within the next few months.
Plan ahead Battery tested at marginal capacity
Battery is original (2019 date sticker) and tested marginal. It may last a while — or not through winter.
Cosmetic findings & notes
Cosmetic / note Respray detected on left-front fender
Paint-depth readings on the left-front fender are roughly double the adjacent panels, consistent with a repaired minor scrape. Panel gaps are correct; no structural indicators observed.
Cosmetic / note Curb rash on both left wheels
Cosmetic only. Useful as a negotiation note.
Cosmetic / note Driver's seat bolster wear
Consistent with mileage; no tears.
OBD-II diagnostic scan
Pending code P0128 — Coolant thermostat below regulating temperature
Pending (not yet stored) code. Often an aging thermostat — an inexpensive repair, but worth confirming. No other stored or pending codes; readiness monitors complete.
Road-test observations
Cold start clean, idle steady. Acceleration and braking normal; transmission shifts smoothly under light and moderate load. Slight steering-wheel vibration at 65+ mph, consistent with the tire findings. No pulling, no abnormal noises.
Photo documentation 32 photos
Recommended next steps
- Obtain quotes for front brakes, one tire, and an alignment before finalizing your offer.
- Ask the seller for maintenance records, especially oil-change history.
- Confirm the P0128 pending code with your mechanic or ask us about a re-inspection after repair.
Questions worth asking the seller
- When were the brakes and tires last serviced, and is there a receipt?
- What happened to the left-front fender, and was the repair done professionally?
- Has the coolant thermostat or temperature warning ever been addressed?
Potential negotiation notes
The items above are ordinary, repairable findings — useful facts when discussing price. Local repair costs vary, so gather quotes before negotiating. This report documents observed condition; it is not legal, financial, or purchase advice, and the decision remains yours.
Sample only. This report uses fictional, anonymized data for illustration and does not describe any specific inspected vehicle. Every real report reflects the observed condition of the vehicle at the time of inspection; it is visual and non-invasive and is not a warranty or guarantee. See the full inspection disclaimer.
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