Buying a used car in Graham? Get a pre-purchase inspection first

When you look at a used car listed online or parked along Meridian, it usually looks clean on the outside. Most sellers wash the paint and vacuum the carpets before listing a vehicle. But the condition of the body tells you very little about what is happening underneath.

A pre-purchase inspection goes beyond looking at the paint and tires. We put the car up on a lift to examine the underside, where most expensive problems start.

What we look for during an inspection

Our mechanics look closely at the mechanical systems that cost the most money to fix if they fail:

• Brakes, ball joints, and suspension components
• Engine and transmission for oil or coolant leaks
• Frame rails and underbody for structural rust or past damage
• Belts, hoses, and battery condition
• Computer diagnostic scans for pending trouble codes or recently cleared lights

Why an hour of shop time matters

An inspection usually takes about an hour. That hour gives you a plain list of what the vehicle needs right now and what it will likely need over the next year.

If a car needs new ball joints or a water pump, you learn about it before handing over your money. You can use the repair details to negotiate a lower price with the seller, or you can walk away from the purchase entirely. Finding out a transmission slips after you sign the title is an expensive surprise.

Our setup on Meridian E

We want to be clear about how we operate. Auto Star inspects used cars, and we also sell selected used vehicles from our location at 28801 Meridian E in Graham. Gurjivan handles our car sales, while Jabarjeet, Nick, and our shop staff run the repair side.

If you bring us a car you are considering buying from a private seller or another lot in South Hill, Spanaway, or Graham, we look at it with a neutral eye. We write down what we find so you have clear facts before making a decision.

Scheduling an inspection

Ask the seller if they are willing to let you bring the car to a shop. If they refuse, that tells you something useful right away.

We are open Monday to Saturday from 8am to 6pm. To set up an inspection time, call Brianna at (253) 375-7057 or stop by our shop on Meridian E.