Mobile vs. Shop Inspections: Which Is Better?
The traditional advice is "take it to a mechanic." But when buying a used car, getting the vehicle to a shop isn't always practical. Here's how mobile inspections compare - and why they often make more sense.
The Short Answer
For pre-purchase inspections, mobile service is usually better because it removes the biggest obstacle: getting the car to the shop. Sellers are more likely to agree, you can inspect before committing, and you see the car in its natural state. Shop inspections make sense when you already own the vehicle or have a specific specialist you trust.
Detailed Comparison
| Factor | Mobile Inspection | Shop Inspection |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | We come to wherever the car is - dealer lot, private seller's home, anywhere in the Spokane area. | You need to get the car to the shop, which often means convincing a seller to let you drive their car across town. |
| Seller Cooperation | Easier for sellers to agree to - they don't have to give up their car or trust you to drive it somewhere. | Sellers are often reluctant to let potential buyers drive their car to an unknown location. |
| Timing | Inspect before you commit. Get results the same day, often within hours. | Often requires leaving the car for half a day or longer. Delays the buying decision. |
| Vehicle State | Inspect the car in its normal state, before it's been cleaned up or warmed up for inspection. | Car has been driven to the shop, potentially masking cold-start issues or other symptoms. |
| Thoroughness | Comprehensive 95+ point inspection covering all major systems, with video documentation. | Varies widely. Some shops do thorough inspections; others do quick once-overs. |
| Cost | $225 flat rate, no surprises. Same price whether car is nearby or across town. | Typically $100-200, but you may need to factor in your time getting the car there and back. |
Convenience
Mobile
We come to wherever the car is - dealer lot, private seller's home, anywhere in the Spokane area.
Shop
You need to get the car to the shop, which often means convincing a seller to let you drive their car across town.
Seller Cooperation
Mobile
Easier for sellers to agree to - they don't have to give up their car or trust you to drive it somewhere.
Shop
Sellers are often reluctant to let potential buyers drive their car to an unknown location.
Timing
Mobile
Inspect before you commit. Get results the same day, often within hours.
Shop
Often requires leaving the car for half a day or longer. Delays the buying decision.
Vehicle State
Mobile
Inspect the car in its normal state, before it's been cleaned up or warmed up for inspection.
Shop
Car has been driven to the shop, potentially masking cold-start issues or other symptoms.
Thoroughness
Mobile
Comprehensive 95+ point inspection covering all major systems, with video documentation.
Shop
Varies widely. Some shops do thorough inspections; others do quick once-overs.
Cost
Mobile
$225 flat rate, no surprises. Same price whether car is nearby or across town.
Shop
Typically $100-200, but you may need to factor in your time getting the car there and back.
The Mobile Inspection Advantage
For pre-purchase inspections specifically, mobile service solves real problems that shop inspections create.
Inspect Before You're Committed
With mobile inspection, you can get a professional assessment before you've emotionally committed to the purchase. No awkward situation of having already driven the car to a shop and feeling obligated.
Easier for Private Sales
Private sellers are much more likely to agree to an inspection when they don't have to give up their car. Our inspector comes to them - they stay in control of their vehicle.
No Logistics Hassle
You don't need to arrange rides, coordinate schedules, or convince anyone to let you drive their car. We handle everything and send you the results.
See the Car Cold
When we inspect a car where it sits, we see it in its normal state. Cold starts, initial sounds, and behaviors that might be masked after a drive to the shop are all observable.
When a Shop Inspection Makes Sense
We're not saying shop inspections are bad - they serve a different purpose.
- You already own the car and want a general health check
- You have a trusted mechanic who knows the specific make/model well
- The seller is willing to bring the car to your chosen shop
- You're looking for a specialized inspection (diesel, exotic, classic)
Common Questions About Mobile Inspections
Is a mobile inspection as thorough as a shop inspection?
What can't you check with a mobile inspection?
Why don't more people use mobile inspections?
How do you diagnose problems without a full shop?
What if the car needs to be on a lift?
Ready to Try Mobile Inspection?
See why Spokane buyers are choosing mobile inspections. We come to the car, conduct a thorough 95+ point inspection, and deliver your report the same day.
Questions? Call or text (833) 292-1293 or email [email protected]