I am selling my car. Is it OK to let a potential buyer take it to a mechanic?

Question

What legal implications are involved in this? I worry about things like 1) The "buyer" stealing the car 2) They or the mechanic ruining the car by not putting it back together right after inspection 3) Having them possibly get into an accident driving to or from said mechanic 4) The buyer using it to run errands and adding ridiculous mileage to my car and then deciding not to purchase. Even though I can certainly understand the reasoning behind the buyer wanting to have the car inspected by a professional, it seems like it might be more potential liability than it it worth. Is there anything I can do to protect myself from these potential pitfalls while still offering the buyer some sort of re-assurance about what they are purchasing?

Answer 1

You really need to go with the car anyway. They shouldn't be taking anything of consequence apart either. It would be OK to check the spark plug condition, but if the mechanic buggers up the wires - its on him to fix that. Plugging a scanner in to read the trouble codes (if any) and reading the other computer parameters of the car is OK. They will likely check all the dipsticks and check for coolant in the oil/oil in the coolant and if all your electric stuff is in working order.

Answer 2

I think it's a good idea to let buyers bring it to a mechanic. It shows you have nothing to hide but at the same time I would be going with the car. I would be the one driving it to and from the garage nobody else. thats how I would go about it if I was selling a car.

Answer 3

confident, definately. that's what shoppers would desire to do, have their mechanic look on the motor vehicle. as long simply by fact the mechanic includes the area and the motor vehicle remains for my section, i does not have a issue with it. If the customer needs some money off, i could evaluate it based on the restore costs. If i've got faith the mechanic is mendacity so the customer can lowball me, i could can merely refuse to sell.

Answer 4

I would not let him take it to a mechanic. If he wants to take it to a mechanic, get the name of the mechanic first. Research the mechanic to make sure they are reputable and you drive the vehicle and meet him at the mechanic. Then you don't have to give him the keys to your car and you don't have to worry about all the problems there.

Answer 5

well its still your car so you would go with him. if he doesn't like it, tell him to keep it moving. when i was buying a car, i brought the mechnic with me to inspect it on the spot. that's really the best way but not all mechanics will let you pay them to drive around looking at cars all day.

Answer 6

if i were you, i'd tell the potential buyer that it's okay, but that you will drive it yourself to the mechanic. that way you are in control and can oversee everything that is happening. i realize this costs you some time, but you'll gain peace of mind.

Answer 7

the best way to do this is go with them,,this way you know your car is safe,,i don't blame you for being a little leery on this one,,you can't tell about people these days,but id just go with them,,and see what the mechanic said about it,,it will probably check out alright,,good luck ,i hope this help,s.

Answer 8

I would have no problem with it if I had nothing to hide. Just make sure you write down his license number. Wouldn't want him to take off with your car.

Answer 9

Yes / If you are greatly concerned, GO ALONG, and stay with the car.

Answer 10

go with them seems like the safest thing to do,ask to see their drivers license,get info, if they are on the up and up there shouldnt be a problem