We’ve Got You Covered

Our standard inspection package is a comprehensive top to bottom check of every system in a vehicle, and will give you all the details and perspectives you need to make an informed purchase.

  • Has this vehicle been treated well?

  • Has this vehicle been in a serious accident?

  • What maintenance and repairs have been done?

  • What problems or issues does the vehicle have?

  • What maintenance or repairs will likely need to happen in the next year or two?

Standard Inspection

Designed to be everything most people need to make an informed purchase, which includes the following.

A thorough check of every system in the vehicle

Engine, transmission, drivetrain, brakes, suspension, steering, body, interior, exterior, electronics, and tires.

Having a little chat with the vehicle's computer network

We don’t just scan for trouble codes, we’re talking to the engine control unit, transmission control unit, traction and stability control systems, braking control system, collision monitoring, etc.

A rigorous test drive

To evaluate its performance and check for excess noise, vibration, or signs of damage or issues.

A second eyes-on check as needed

This is key for to compare with the first check for leaks or other signs of damaged or failing systems.

Specialty Inspections

Buying a high end sports car car, classic car, motor home, or luxury car? Maybe you want to buy a vehicle remotely?

One of our specialty inspections might be right for you.

Prius and other Toyota/Lexus hybrids inspections

Wanting to buy a Prius?
Most shops and inspections services outside of the dealership can’t test a Toyotas hybrid systems.
We have specialized software to determine both hybrid battery health and hybrid system functionality. Data such as individual cell health and over all battery wear is presented in the inspection report.

RV and trailer inspections

Checking out a used RV?
You need someone who can evaluate both the vehicle systems and the house components. With experience in maintaining and modifying RVs and trailers we can give you a detailed look at everything you need to know to make an informed purchase.

Remote vehicle inspections

Found a unique car in the Portland area you’d like to have eyes on?
With a remote inspection we can send additional pictures and a video walkaround of the vehicle. Pay special attention to paint and bodywork or other small details that matter for a special car.

Performance/luxury/exotic vehicle inspections

Dig into the history of your specific model, generation and production year of the vehicle. Research quirks, potential issues, and common points of failure and give extra attention to those things to see if they’ve been addressed or will need to be.

Take a more extensive test drive that takes the vehicle through its paces to ensure vehicle systems are performing with the precision and power they’re supposed to.

Modified vehicle inspections

Many amateurs modify cars. Often those modifications are done incorrectly, with poor quality parts, in a fashion that is illegal, or all of the above. We have the performance background to evaluate their installation, research the specific modifications, and explain any potential legal implications.

We partner with local performance shops for specialized tests like individual cylinder compression testing, boost leak down testing, or dynoing the car if you want to have maximum assurance that things are working right.

“What a life saver. It was a monumentally stressful process finding a used car, but I can honestly say that the human experience of having his input on the cars I was looking at was invaluable. Both at finding a great car and maintaining my sanity. I'll be recommending the Car Friend to everyone I know who's car hunting going forward.”

— Google Review by Virgil H.