When Should You Bring Your Car to an Auto Shop for an Immediate Check?

Some situations shouldn’t wait for your next routine visit to our auto shop. There are times when bringing your car in for an immediate check is the safest, most responsible option. Ignoring certain warning signs, even small ones, can lead to problems that compromise your safety.

One clear sign is a sudden change in the way your car drives. If you notice vibrations, pulling to one side, or a rougher ride than usual, it’s worth having us take a look.

Here are some other signs to never dismiss:

• Warning lights on your dashboard
• Fluid leaking beneath your parked vehicle
• A sharp drop in fuel efficiency

• Strange smells while driving or after shutting off the engine
• Difficulty starting the car, even intermittently

What Do Car Inspections Check For?

Our detailed vehicle inspections focus on safety, function, and structural soundness.

Out technicians typically evaluate:

• Brakes and steering: Pads, rotors, hydraulic lines, tie rods, and steering components
• Suspension and frame: Shocks, struts, ball joints, and signs of structural damage or rust
• Tires and wheels: Tread depth, pressure, alignment, and overall condition

• Lights and visibility: Headlights, brake lights, turn signals, wipers, and windshield integrity
• Safety systems and leaks: Airbags, seatbelts, and signs of fluid leaks

By thoroughly examining these key areas, our inspections help ensure your vehicle is safe and roadworthy.

Performance Auto Center: A Certified Auto Center

Performance Auto Center is a licensed inspection facility staffed by certified technicians who are equipped to perform official vehicle assessments. We offer prompt scheduling, detailed reports, and inspections that meet all regulatory requirements.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Certified technicians performing every inspection
• Dedicated time slots available for fast, convenient scheduling
• Calibrated diagnostic tools and OEM-approved inspection methods

• Licensed and approved to issue official reports
• Inspection reports accepted by insurance providers and licensing authorities

With a commitment to accuracy, professionalism, and customer convenience, we deliver inspection services you can trust. When it comes to meeting official standards, we’re the best choice.

What Types of Vehicle Inspections Are Available?

Vehicle inspections vary based on purpose.

The types of vehicle inspections we offer include:

• Annual safety inspection: If you need to confirm that your vehicle remains roadworthy
• Pre-purchase used car inspections: Full mechanical and structural assessment to help buyers make informed decisions

• Commercial truck inspections: Includes inspections for brake systems, lighting, and load security checks
• Out-of-state inspections: Confirms compliance with the receiving jurisdiction’s safety standards

Whatever your inspection needs, we provide thorough evaluations to keep you compliant.

Why Are Pre-Purchase Inspections Important for Used Vehicles?

A pre-purchase inspection gives you informed insight into the condition of the vehicle before money changes hands. We assess major systems, review past repairs (if possible), and check for hidden damage a casual test drive won’t reveal. It’s a practical step that you should always take before buying.

The main reason it matters is cost. A used vehicle might look fine but carry expensive problems you can’t see, like worn suspension components or hidden frame damage. We’ve helped clients avoid cars that needed many repairs within weeks of purchase.

Another reason is leverage. When you have a full inspection report, you’re in a stronger position to negotiate the price or ask for specific repairs before closing the deal. We give you the details you need to make a confident, informed decision.

What Happens if You Fail Your Car Inspection?

If your vehicle doesn’t pass inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report highlighting the components that didn’t meet safety standards.

We handle most safety-related repairs in-house. From brake work to suspension and lighting corrections, our certified technicians are qualified to fix the issues flagged during inspection. We provide upfront repair quotes and, in many cases, can begin work the same day. Once repairs are complete, we’ll reinspect your vehicle on-site and issue an updated report confirming compliance.

What Car Repairs Are Common After an Inspection?

Car repairs after an inspection aren’t unusual. While our inspections are designed to catch issues early and help you avoid major repairs, there are times when something still needs to be addressed. In some cases, it’s the inspection itself that uncovers a developing issue.

One example is brake pad wear. They might not trigger a warning light, but our technicians can measure the remaining material and recommend a replacement before it begins to affect your stopping power. It’s a simple fix that keeps you safer on the road and helps avoid damage to the rotors.

We can handle any repairs your vehicle needs, but other common ones may include:

• Replacing worn-out spark plugs
• Fixing minor oil leaks from gaskets or seals

• Aligning wheels to correct uneven tire wear
• Changing a dirty or clogged air filter