‘Thought they were slick.’
A mobile mechanic is hired to perform a pre-purchase inspection on a Dodge Challenger, only to run into issues obtaining the car keys from the dealership. Little did he know, there was a reason why they were trying to avoid him doing the test drive part of the inspection.
In a TikTok, mobile mechanic TRP Mobile (@trpmobile) shares how the Toyota Universe dealership in Little Falls, New Jersey, tried hiding this one major issue with a Dodge Challenger. The TikTok has over 8,900 views as of this writing.
A potential Toyota Universe customer flew from Texas to New Jersey to take a look at a Dodge Challenger at the dealership. The Texas man hired the mobile mechanic, TRP Mobile, to do a pre-purchase inspection before putting pen to paper.
Typically, this pre-purchase inspection is a straightforward process for the mobile mechanic. However, the staff at Toyota Universe stalled when the mobile mechanic asked for the keys.
“They are being cagey about giving me the key. ‘Oh, we gotta find it. We’re not sure. We’ll get someone to help you,’” the mobile mechanic shares. This delay continues, and the staff tells the mechanic that they are struggling to find the key.
“We can’t find the key, but you can just go check it out. It’s parked out there,” the mechanic recalls a worker saying. However, the mechanic insisted he needed the key in order to complete the pre-inspection test drive for the customer.
“I’m going to need the key since I have to test drive the car. I can’t perform a proper pre-inspection without test driving the vehicle,” he shares. Eventually, the staff handed over the keys to the Dodge Challenger after an hour delay. The mechanic does the test drive and reveals that the staff was trying to hide a major issue.
“I get done the test drive and put the car in reverse to back it into the spot, and the car is not going into reverse,” he shares.
“Of course y’all wasn’t trying to give me the key,” he concludes.
Getting a pre-purchase inspection is a must when buying a car, as it provides four major benefits. These benefits include identifying hidden issues, ensuring safety, providing peace of mind, and offering support during negotiations.
If the mechanic discovers something wrong with the car, the customer can make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase.
“How can I find out more about your pre-purchase inspection? Look to purchase a car in NJ,” one TikTok commenter asked.
Well, Motor1 got more information from TRP Mobile about the service he provides in helping New Jersey customers buy cars.
In a recent interview with Motor1, TRP Mobile said, “Pre-purchase inspections are important because they offer an objective, expert evaluation of a car’s actual health, ensuring you know exactly what you’re buying before finalizing a large purchase.”
When asked what he typically checks for during a pre-purchase inspection, he replied, “Our comprehensive 150-point inspection covers everything from critical engine components like valve cover gaskets to essential safety features such as seatbelt functionality. Beyond the technical report, we pride ourselves on empowering our clients with expert insights into model-specific trends, helping them stay ahead of potential issues with a proactive maintenance plan.”
There are a few different options when getting a pre-purchase inspection. While most dealerships will have an in-house mechanic doing this, some people prefer to bring in their own mechanic to complete it. As the customer, you may use your own mechanic to complete this inspection before purchasing.
“You have the right to a Pre-Purchase Inspection as a consumer, and often a non-binding purchase offer and a refundable deposit are accepted conditions for an inspection,” per J.D. Power.
Local mechanics, specialized technicians, mobile mechanics, chains, and national retailers are all options when getting a pre-purchase inspection.
When selecting an option, it is always best to read reviews about the service provider.
Price will vary depending on which option you go with and where you are located. Typically, a standard pre-purchase inspection will cost between $100 and $300, NerdWallet reports. While this is an additional cost added to the bill, getting a pre-purchase inspection is a great way to gain peace of mind before making the big purchase.
Motor1 has contacted Toyota Universe via online contact form and Instagram direct message. We will update the story if they respond.
We want your opinion!
What would you like to see on Motor1.com?
– The Motor1.com Team