So you love cars. You know how to drive and fix them. Most importantly, you know a good car when you see one - even if they are in used condition. If all these things describe you, then you should definitely consider becoming a freelance used auto inspector.
People are buying used cars more and more often these days. Even more so now that the pandemic is over and there are more highly important things to spend money on.
However, as demand rises, the prices of used cars have also increased significantly in the past few years. For example, Cars.com says that the median list price for a 2019 model in July 2022 has increased by 47% since three years ago.
This means, now more than ever, buyers need to inspect the cars they want to purchase. But unfortunately, they are either too busy or lazy to do a personal check. And that is the reason someone with your skill and knowledge may help them make wise decisions.
If you want to make money with your passion for cars, this could be your best option. In fact, many people who are passionate about vehicles are already making a decent living from their hobby.
In this article, we will discuss what it takes to become a used vehicle inspector, where to find jobs as a vehicle inspector, how much you can earn as a vehicle inspector, and finally, how to get started as a vehicle inspector.
Pre-Purchase Inspection: What Is It?
Before you buy a car, it is inspected during a pre-purchase inspection, usually by a technician or a dealership.
It is done to guarantee that the car is in good functioning order and that no severe problems have arisen.
The goal of this inspection is to save you, the buyer, from future headaches.
Why Should We Get One?
Buying a used car requires double the effort of buying a new car. This is because many factors are involved in the process that can lead to big headaches down the road.
You might learn, for instance, that the previous owner had a lot of trouble with the vehicle. Or maybe he didn't do any maintenance at all.
That's why having a pre-purchase inspection performed is crucial. The customers will rest easy knowing the vehicle has been carefully inspected.
What Does a Used Vehicle Inspector Do?
Used vehicle inspectors can inspect pre-owned vehicles based on certain checkpoints. They can examine aspects of a car, including its engine, transmission, drivability, brakes, suspension system, steering, tires, lights, etc. They also check the interior and exterior of the car. Test-driving a car to make sure it starts, runs, and is road-safe is also part of car inspection.
A wise buyer would ask these questions:
● Is the car inspected regularly? Is there a service record?
● Does the dealer have a reputation for being honest?
● Has the car been in an accident, suffered flood damage, or been stolen before?
● How to compare the original purchase price vs. the current market value?
● How about insurance claims? Is that included in the vehicle history report?
Those clients are counting on you to fix these issues. You will be responsible for everything from vehicle inspection to vehicle registration data.
How Can I Become a Used Inspector?
Used vehicle inspectors require a strong mechanical background and an eye for detail.
However, if you want to get ahead in this field, here are some tips:
- Learn as much as possible about the different types of vehicles, including electric cars.
- Even though it’s great to learn about different types of vehicles, this doesn’t mean you have to be expert at each make and model. You could special in certain brands and makes and offer your services for those.
- Know that each vehicle demands different inspections.
- Know the difference between a warranty from the manufacturer and one from a third party.
- Have a good understanding of how to repair minor mechanical issues.
- Know how to read a vehicle history report.
- Learn how to check safety recalls.
- Read blogs and forums related to the automotive industry so you can give useful advice to clients.
How Can I Get Experience as a Used Vehicles Inspector?
There are two ways to become a good used vehicle inspector:
- Learn how to work on vehicles. Being a certified mechanic could be a plus, although not required.
- Work on cars. Working on cars gives you a practical, hands-on experience that is useful for detecting issues in vehicles.
- You may want to specialize in certain makes and models to start.
- After gaining knowledge about some brands, you may want to expand your scope by learning about other makes and models as well.
If you're interested in becoming a vehicle inspector, you should immerse yourself in the world of vehicles to learn as much about them as possible. This way, you learn what to look for when checking out a vehicle you are seeing for the first time. You will also know how to quickly detect red flags in vehicles.
If you have experience performing car inspections, or know vehicles in general, your knowledge could be an income earning opportunity for you. You could be hired to inspect cars in your area by buyers in your area, or even far away. Inspectionally gives you the opportunity to offer your service as a used vehicle inspector, making it possible for you to be found by used car buyers, no matter where they are.
Not Much of a Car Enthusiast? No Problem
Other used vehicles such as boats, buses, and even aircraft often need inspections too. So, if you have experience inspecting other types of vehicles, you should offer inspection services for those as well.
What Do the Working Hours Look Like?
In most cases, motor vehicle inspections take place during normal business hours. In a real-life situation, the time and place for inspecting a vehicle will depend on an arrangement with the seller about time and place to perform the inspections, so be ready to use your communication skills.
In addition, some inspectors may charge extra fees for weekend inspection, but this is a judgment call that should take into account what the buyer is willing to pay.
How Can I Get Clients?
There are two ways to get clients. Promote your service via social media or text. Another way is by using websites.
To start, you can register on Inspectionally. You will find the tools necessary to list your services at no cost and open up opportunities of getting hired by used vehicle buyers to inspect cars for them.
The Bottom Line
If you are passionate about cars, trucks, motorcycles, or any vehicle, why not use that knowledge to earn money? Many opportunities are available to car enthusiasts looking to turn their hobby or experience into an income earning opportunity.
From inspecting vehicles for insurance companies to working as a mechanic, there are many ways to find work as a used vehicle inspector. And once you find a job, there might even be the added opportunity of being hired to fix any issues found in the vehicle, if you are interested in doing so, although this is not required for the inspection work you do.
Sign up on Inspectionally and offer your services as a used vehicle inspector so you could help used vehicle buyers check out cars, trucks, vans, buses, semis and other vehicles, before they buy.
