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Car inspection San Francisco

Car Inspections in San Francisco by Certified Car Inspectors

CarInspect offers mobile vehicle inspection services in San Francisco, complete with a warranty for added peace of mind. With our thorough pre-purchase inspection (PPI) and our leading inspection services for businesses, you can confidently protect your investments, knowing each vehicle has been fully inspected.

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Easy and Stress-Free Car Inspection in San Francisco

Vehicle Inspections for Businesses in San Francisco

CarInspect provides thorough automobile evaluations tailored to San Francisco, ensuring your fleet or car inventory is in top condition. Our expert team conducts detailed assessments to meet the highest safety and reliability standards, ensuring each vehicle remains road-ready and compliant. From full fleet inspections to auction house inspections, CarInspect caters to a wide range of business needs in San Francisco.

Why CarInspect is Ideal for Business Fleets

We meticulously examine all critical components to ensure optimal performance, reducing the risk of breakdowns.

Whether for dealerships, rental services, or corporate fleets, our assessments fit your specific needs and fleet size.

Our detailed reports provide clear records, helping you make informed decisions about maintenance and repairs.

Early problem detection minimizes major repair costs and fleet downtime, keeping your vehicles in service longer.

We offer flexible evaluation schedules based on your business’s operational needs and budget.

Our inspections ensure your fleet meets all local and federal safety requirements, helping you avoid costly fines and liability.

Regular evaluations enhance safety and reduce the risk of accidents, protecting both your business and your drivers.

Vehicle Inspections for Businesses

Our certified inspectors are available within 48 hours, ensuring timely inspections before the auction.

Our network consists of real mechanics with deep mechanical expertise, providing thorough auction inspections.

We provide customized troubleshooting inspection, pre-sale inspection and post-sale inspection reports to address your specific needs.

Our platform streamlines the process, offering standardized and efficient inspection services across all auction sites.

We identify costly and/or arbitrable components to reduce customer dissatisfaction

Our team is skilled at quickly identifying issues that often arise in auction cars.

As an independent service, we offer unbiased evaluations so you can trust our findings, free from auction pressures.

Mobile Pre-Purchase Inspection in San Francisco – Easy, On-Demand Service

CarInspect offers full vehicle inspections wherever you need them, whether at your home, at the office, or at the seller’s location, providing flexibility and convenience. We make pre-purchase inspections (PPI) simple and efficient for San Francisco residents!

The Future of Car Buying with Mobile Inspections

With mobile inspections, you can avoid trips to a shop and get a comprehensive evaluation for potential issues like rust or mechanical faults, all from the comfort of your chosen location.

We Come to Your Preferred Location

Our professional mechanics come to your desired spot, whether that’s a dealership or a private sale site, performing in-depth checks on all aspects of the car.

Get Your Report Within 24-48 Hours

Our service provides a full, detailed report within 24-48 hours, covering every key aspect of the car’s condition so you can make an informed decision without delay.

CarInspect – The Trusted Choice for Car Inspections and Pre-Purchase Inspections in San Francisco

90-Day Warranty Following Our Inspections

Choose CarInspect, the top car inspection service in Boston, to ensure your vehicle’s safety and avoid future repairs. With a 90-day warranty, our clients can buy, sell or operate each vehicle confidently knowing it is inspected for hidden damage and safety conditions.

*see conditions

A Mobile Car inspection service

Our qualified mechanics come to your location for a thorough automobile inspection, checking brakes, windows, seat belts, and more—offering convenient, same-day service.

Certified Car Inspectors and Mechanics

Our independent, certified car inspectors and mechanics perform comprehensive checks, including visual and mechanical inspections, looking for signs of previous damage, such as flood or frame damage. 

Get an Unbiased Opinion

Get a detailed inspection report in San Francisco with service records and clear insights on your vehicle’s condition, providing reassurance when buying from a private seller or dealership. No conflicts of interest—we don’t sell or repair cars.

How much is a car inspection at CarInspect?

All our inspections include appointment management with the owner, a trip to the vehicle, a 170-point inspection, a phone call for an assessment and to answer your questions, a digital report and a 90-day warranty (see conditions).

Gas and non-plug-in hybrids

Eligible: sedan, SUV, pickup, RV* (class B and C – doesn’t include inspection of the cell like heating or water system).

$199

Plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles

Eligible: sedan, SUV, pickup, RV

$199

Custom inspection

Exotic, classic and RV vehicles (class A)

Quote only

Why a Pre-Purchase Car Inspection is Important

Protect Your Investment

Comprehensive pre-purchase car inspections ensure your vehicle is free from hidden damage, rust, and future issues. With an inspection report covering all critical aspects, you can confidently buy from a private seller or dealership.

Avoid Costly Repairs

Spot potential problems before they become expensive. Our detailed checks on brakes, previous damage, and service history help you avoid unexpected repairs and ensure peace of mind when buying.

Ensure Safety on the Road

Our inspections focus on the vehicle’s safety condition, from seat belts to the engine, ensuring you’re protected on the road. Trust our qualified mechanics for a thorough safety check. 

A comprehensive car inspection report

A detailed 170-point report that covers mechanical, functional, aesthetics, road test, potential repairs, and inspector’s feedback. 

See the full report here.

Meet Our Mobile Car Inspectors in the San Francisco Area

Our team of mobile car inspectors is selected for their expertise, professionalism, and commitment to delivering thorough and impartial inspections. Each inspector is highly trained to provide you with detailed insights on a vehicle’s condition. Below are some of the top experts available to assist you in making a confident and informed decision when purchasing a vehicle:

mobile mechanic pre purchase inspection

Steve 
Steve is an accomplished technician with over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry. He is currently a master technician for a Korean brand dealership. He is in charge of all car diagnostics and shares his results directly with the brand’s engineers. Absolutely passionate, he was also a technician for several NASCAR teams. He knows how hard it can be to buy a car and that’s why he joined the CarInspect network.

Eric
Due to a devouring passion for motorsport, Eric could not do anything else but make it his job. With his degree in hand, Eric specialized in several automotive Japanese brands. The rest of his time is devoted to pickup trucks and motocross works. A passionate automotive expert who likes to help above all.

Availability in San Francisco and Beyond

Our car inspectors are based throughout San Francisco and are ready to travel up to 40 miles for a mobile car inspection. CarInspect not only covers all of San Francisco but also extends its services to many other cities across the state. Check availability in your area and book a convenient inspection today.

How the CarInspect pre-purchase vehicle inspection works?

1. Book in 2 clicks

Then, we take care of everything: we communicate with your seller and the inspector to arrange the appointment.

2. Mobile inspection

Same-day on-site inspection, or within 48 hours if it's not possible.

3. Purchase decision

You receive the digital report and ask your certified inspector any questions.

CarInspect has established itself as the leader in pre-purchase car inspections, with a singular dedication to this since the service has been launched. Our ongoing goal is to enable confident and informed used vehicle decisions through our reports and mechanics.

Customer Reviews

How Long Does a Car Inspection Take in San Francisco?

A typical car inspection in San Francisco usually takes around an hour, though the exact time depends on the vehicle’s condition, age, and complexity. During the process, our certified inspectors carry out a detailed evaluation that may involve mechanical checks, a brief road test, visual assessments, and inspections for hidden issues such as rust, brake wear, or structural concerns. The purpose of the inspection is to provide a clear picture of the vehicle’s overall safety and reliability. From essential features like seat belts and brakes to the suspension and frame, CarInspect ensures every critical system is reviewed. With this thorough digital report, buyers in San Francisco can make confident, well-informed decisions before purchasing from either a local dealership or a private seller.

What Are the Most Common Problems Found in Used Cars?

Buying a used vehicle can sometimes mean uncovering issues that aren’t obvious during a short test drive. Below are some of the most frequent concerns our inspectors identify during pre-purchase evaluations:

  • Engine Troubles: Oil leaks, worn gaskets, or timing belt wear that may lead to expensive repairs later.
  • Transmission Concerns: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping, or delayed response.
  • Cooling System Defects: Overheating caused by coolant leaks, faulty thermostats, or failing radiators.
  • Electrical Malfunctions: Non-working windows, lighting problems, or issues with onboard electronics.
  • Brake Wear: Thin brake pads or worn rotors that reduce stopping power and safety.
  • Suspension and Rust Damage: Failing shocks, uneven ride quality, and rust spots on the frame or undercarriage.

CarInspect’s pre-purchase inspections are designed to catch these hidden problems before they become costly. With a comprehensive digital report and expert review, you’ll have peace of mind knowing the true condition of the vehicle before committing to a purchase.

How Much Does a Car Inspection Cost in San Francisco?

CarInspect offers straightforward, flat-rate pricing for vehicle inspections throughout San Francisco. A full inspection for most vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, pickups, and hybrids, costs $199. Each service includes a 170-point checklist, high-quality photos, a digital report, and a 90-day warranty. Electric and plug-in hybrids are also covered at the same price, while rare or classic cars may require a custom quote due to their specialized components. Unlike some Bay Area shops that advertise bargain rates but tack on hidden fees or provide only limited checks, CarInspect keeps pricing simple and transparent. Whether you’re buying from a dealership along Van Ness Avenue or meeting a private seller in the Mission District, you’ll know the exact cost before scheduling.

Do You Inspect Teslas and Other Electric Vehicles in San Francisco?

Yes. CarInspect provides specialized inspections for Teslas, hybrids, and electric vehicles across San Francisco. Our certified inspectors follow the complete 170-point inspection process, with added focus on EV-specific systems such as the battery, charging components, and regenerative braking. We regularly inspect vehicles like the Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf, Chevy Bolt, and Toyota Prius for buyers in San Francisco and nearby areas. From Downtown San Francisco to SoMa, Pacific Heights, Daly City, and Oakland, customers rely on CarInspect to deliver a thorough, unbiased inspection before committing to their purchase. Every service includes detailed photos, a full report, and a 90-day warranty, giving Bay Area drivers confidence when investing in an electric or hybrid vehicle.

Which Areas in San Francisco Do You Serve for Mobile Car Inspections?

CarInspect provides mobile car inspection services throughout San Francisco and surrounding Bay Area communities. Instead of taking time out of your day to drive to a shop, our certified inspectors come directly to you — whether the car is at your home, office, or a dealership. This flexible service makes it easy to book an inspection anywhere in the city or nearby suburbs, saving you both time and effort.

Here are just a few of the San Francisco neighborhoods and areas we regularly serve:

  • Downtown San Francisco
  • Mission District
  • SoMa (South of Market)
  • Nob Hill
  • Pacific Heights
  • Haight-Ashbury
  • Richmond District
  • Sunset District
  • North Beach
  • Marina District
  • Daly City
  • Oakland
  • Berkeley
  • South San Francisco

The Advantages of Booking a Car Inspection in San Francisco

  1. Fast and Accessible Service Across San Francisco: Our inspectors can quickly reach neighborhoods such as Downtown San Francisco, Nob Hill, Pacific Heights, and the Mission District, as well as nearby cities like Daly City and Oakland. This ensures timely inspections without unnecessary delays.
  2. Knowledge of San Francisco Driving Conditions: Driving in San Francisco comes with unique challenges — from steep hills and cable car tracks to heavy traffic on the Bay Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge. Our inspectors understand how these conditions can affect a vehicle’s brakes, suspension, and overall performance, making a detailed inspection essential before purchase.
  3. Expertise in California Regulations: Our San Francisco team is highly familiar with California’s strict emissions and safety requirements, ensuring your vehicle meets all state standards for registration and safe operation.
  4. Flexible Mobile Inspections: Whether you’re purchasing a car from a dealership on Van Ness Avenue, meeting a seller in SoMa, or arranging an inspection at your home or workplace, CarInspect’s San Francisco team provides thorough on-site inspections tailored to your schedule.