PPI's Are Especially Important When You Broaden Your Search Area

If your search was unsuccessful in your local area, you might extend it to national enthusiast magazines such as Hot Rod or Car Craft or maybe pick up a copy of Hemmings, a well-known classifieds circular for classic cars in North America. Unfortunately, the ads in these magazines often provided little more information than those in Auto Trader, typically offering only brief descriptions. Most sellers would be willing to send photos through the mail and provide more details before you made the long drive to view the vehicle. However, these photos were rarely of professional quality, making it easy for sellers to conceal any concerns about the car. It was not unusual to drive hundreds of miles only to find that the vehicle did not match the seller’s representation.

If you had a friend in the area, you might consider asking them to inspect the car before you committed to a road trip. However, it’s important to recognize that finding a friend who is both nearby and knowledgeable enough to thoroughly evaluate the vehicle—especially when it comes to assessing its originality or the quality of its restoration—can be akin to finding a needle in a haystack.

Advancements in Digital... And Marketing... Can Mislead

With the rise of the internet, one would expect that confirming a vehicle's condition before purchase would have become significantly easier for enthusiasts. While the process has certainly become quicker, assessing vehicle quality remains a challenge. Websites like Bring a Trailer and Hemmings, along with various vintage car dealers, showcase online ads featuring extensive portfolios of photos and well-crafted descriptions of the cars they offer. However, the reality may not always align with the expectations set by these ads.

Experienced sellers often mask issues behind appealing photos and polished video presentations, as their main goal is to sell the cars effectively. Unfortunately, despite careful vetting of dealers and thorough examination of images, there are numerous horror stories from buyers who ended up with vehicles that were not as accurately represented.

Horror Stories Are Common

One buyer, who wishes to remain anonymous, shared his online experience with us. He was excited to purchase another vintage truck after his previous one had been totaled. “I had a fat claims check from my insurance company in my hand, and car show season was just starting. I was eager to get a replacement truck so I could get back to cruising and attending shows!”

In his excitement, he may have acted too quickly. He explained, "After about a week of searching online I found a truck in Michigan that seemed to check all the boxes. It had subtle modifications, a powerful modern drivetrain, a nice stance, and I loved the color. Since I lived in Southern California and couldn’t travel to see the truck myself, I carefully reviewed the photos and spoke at length with the salesman about the truck's condition, which he described as a show-quality resto-mod." Pleased with the results of his research and the seller’s assessment, he struck a deal for the truck.

When the truck arrived from Michigan, it was far from the condition that had been described. The owner expressed his disappointment, stating, “The truck looked like it had been thrown together. The fit on the doors and fenders was terrible, and the paint was covered with embedded dirt and dust specks; none of this was noticeable in the photos. The front suspension and brakes had not been installed correctly, causing the truck to pull dangerously into oncoming traffic when I braked. The vehicle was unsafe to drive. I honestly don’t know how they got it on the trailer. Even the seats were poorly installed—it was simply a wreck!”

The owner reported spending an additional $10,000 over five months to get the truck repaired and ensure it was safe to drive. “I still have many issues to address. The engine doesn’t run properly; it is cold-blooded on start-up and sputters under hard acceleration when warmed up. I have used up all of my claims check and need at least another $5,000 to make this truck as nice as my original one.”

The Value of Expert Advice

We spoke with Jason Phillips, the owner of AutoAppraise, a Michigan-based automotive appraisal company specializing in pre-purchase inspections, insurance appraisals, and total loss disputes. Jason explained, “People want what they want right now and don't want to wait. If buyers would take a moment to arrange a pre-purchase inspection on the vehicle they are interested in, they could avoid a lot of potential heartache.”

According to Phillips, the turnaround time for an inspection—from when it is scheduled to when the report reaches the buyer—is about a week. Pre-purchase inspections cost around $500 and include a portfolio of photos highlighting any concerns, along with a detailed written description and valuation based on similar sales. That $500 can potentially save a buyer from making a purchase that could lead to $10,000 or more in additional repair costs.

Jason noted, “In my 35 years of inspecting vehicles and conducting pre-purchase inspections, I have found that 50 percent of buyers decide against a potential purchase after the car was inspected because the vehicle's condition did not match what the seller represented.”

Is It Really Worth It? What Do I Really Get Out of It?

A professional inspector examines the quality of the restoration in detail. They look beyond the photos and shiny paint jobs, inspecting the finish to assess its true condition. This includes checking for imperfections such as “fisheyes” or solvent pops, dirt in the paint, and micro scratches. They also evaluate the bodywork to ensure it is straight and smooth, with no waves, and is well-executed and rust or collision repair has been properly completed. Aspects like body fit, panel alignment, and the condition of hinges and door mechanisms are all carefully scrutinized. Everything is tested so you will know what works and does not, even what light bulbs need replacement.

A skilled inspector thoroughly assesses the vehicle, documenting its strengths and weaknesses to give the buyer a clear understanding of its condition. They research the specific model under inspection and are familiar with its known issues that need evaluation. This includes checking the car's originality. Are the drivetrain numbers matching, confirming that the vehicle is in its factory condition, or is it a replica of a more desirable model?

When hiring an inspector, it's crucial to recognize that not all inspectors offer the same level of service or expertise. To ensure you choose the right professional for your needs, consider asking about the number of photographs taken during the inspection. This can give you insight into how thorough and detailed the inspection will be. Additionally, inquire about the qualifications and background of the inspector. Understanding their experience, certifications, and any relevant training can help you assess their competency and the reliability of their findings. Taking these steps will help you make a more informed decision and ensure you receive a comprehensive vehicle evaluation.

When buying a car that promises to deliver an enjoyable driving experience, it's essential to ensure that your investment is worthwhile. A pre-purchase inspection is a crucial step in this process, as it allows you to thoroughly assess the vehicle's condition before finalizing your purchase. This inspection can uncover any hidden issues, such as mechanical problems, body damage, or potential safety concerns, giving you peace of mind that you're making a sound decision. By taking this proactive measure, you can confidently enjoy your dream car, knowing that it will provide you with many miles of fun and excitement you’re looking for without any unexpected surprises down the road.