What Firestone's pre-purchase inspection includes
Firestone offers a pre-purchase vehicle inspection — sometimes called a "pre-buy" inspection — that a mechanic performs on a used car before you commit to buying it. The inspection typically covers the engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, steering, tires, battery, lights, wipers, and fluid levels. Firestone will also check for signs of accident damage, rust, and wear on major components.
The scope varies by location and the specific package you choose. Some Firestone locations offer a basic inspection that focuses on safety-critical systems, while others provide a more detailed report that includes photographs and notes on maintenance history. You should call your local Firestone store or check their website to confirm what their inspection includes, because offerings are not uniform across all locations.
The inspection does not include a test drive on a closed course or a full diagnostic scan of the vehicle's computer system — those are separate services some shops offer. Firestone's inspection is meant to give you a snapshot of the car's current condition so you can make an informed decision before signing paperwork.
Key Takeaways
- Firestone pre-purchase inspections cover major systems like engine, brakes, transmission, and suspension, but the exact scope depends on your local store and which package you select.
- You typically pay a flat fee ranging from around $100 to $200, though prices vary by location and inspection depth.
- The inspection report should include findings on safety issues, fluid levels, tire condition, and signs of past damage or rust.
- You arrange the inspection directly with Firestone and coordinate with the seller to have the car available at the shop for the appointment.
- The inspection does not include a road test or computer diagnostic scan unless you request and pay for those services separately.
How to schedule a Firestone pre-purchase inspection
Contact your local Firestone store by phone or through their website and ask about their pre-purchase inspection service. Have the vehicle's year, make, model, and current mileage ready when you call. The store will tell you the cost, how long the inspection takes (usually one to two hours), and what days and times they have availability.
You will need to arrange with the seller to have the car at the Firestone location at your scheduled time. Some sellers are willing to bring the vehicle themselves; others may ask you to pick it up or meet at the shop. Make sure the car has enough fuel to run during the inspection and that the seller understands they should not leave the vehicle unattended — most shops will not perform work on a car without the owner or authorized representative present.
Bring your driver's license and any paperwork you have about the vehicle, such as the title or maintenance records. If you do not own the car yet, the seller or their representative must be present or have given written permission for the inspection to take place.
What the inspection report will tell you
After the inspection, Firestone will provide you with a written report detailing what they found. The report typically lists each system checked, notes any issues discovered, and flags items that need when ready attention for safety reasons. Common findings include worn brake pads, low tire tread, fluid leaks, battery condition, and rust or corrosion on undercarriage components.
The report should distinguish between minor wear items (like wiper blades that will need replacement soon) and serious problems (like transmission slipping or engine overheating). Some locations provide photographs of problem areas, which can help you understand what the mechanic saw. The report is yours to keep and share with the seller if you want to negotiate repairs or price adjustments.
Pay attention to any safety-related findings, such as brake issues, steering problems, or suspension damage. These are not cosmetic concerns — they affect whether the car is safe to drive. Use the report to decide whether to proceed with the purchase, ask the seller to fix items before closing, or walk away from the deal.
Cost and what affects the price
Firestone pre-purchase inspections typically cost between $100 and $200, though this varies by location and the depth of the inspection. Some stores charge a flat rate; others may charge more for luxury vehicles, trucks, or older cars that require extra time. Call ahead to confirm the exact price at your local store.
The cost is usually non-refundable, even if you decide not to buy the car. Think of it as an insurance policy against buying a vehicle with hidden problems. In many cases, the inspection uncovers an issue serious enough to save you thousands in repair costs or help you negotiate a better price, making the inspection fee a worthwhile investment.
Some Firestone locations offer discounts if you are a member of their rewards program or if you commit to having them perform any repairs the inspection recommends. Ask about current promotions when you call to schedule.
Limitations of a Firestone pre-purchase inspection
A pre-purchase inspection is a visual and basic mechanical check — it is not a complete forensic analysis. Firestone mechanics cannot predict how long a component will last or catch every hidden problem. For example, they can check that the transmission shifts smoothly during a stationary test, but they cannot know if it will fail in six months without a full diagnostic scan and test drive.
The inspection also does not include a vehicle history report (like a Carfax or AutoCheck report), which would show you whether the car has been in accidents, had title issues, or been flooded. You should order a history report separately — they cost $20 to $40 and are available online. Combining a Firestone inspection with a history report gives you a much clearer picture than either alone.
If you want a more exhaustive evaluation, you can ask Firestone about additional services such as a computer diagnostic scan, an alignment check, or a test drive on a closed course. These cost extra but may be worth it if the initial inspection raises questions about a specific system.
How to use the inspection report when negotiating
Once you have the inspection report, you have leverage in negotiations. If the report lists repairs needed, you can ask the seller to fix them before closing, reduce the price to account for the repairs, or split the cost. Present the report professionally — do not use it as a threat, but as factual information about the car's condition.
Some sellers will refuse to negotiate or make repairs. In that case, you have to decide whether the car is worth buying as-is, whether you can afford to fix the issues yourself, or whether you should walk away. The inspection report makes that decision easier because you know exactly what you are getting into.
If the seller claims the car is in perfect condition but the inspection finds multiple problems, that is a red flag. It suggests the seller either did not know the car's true condition or was being dishonest. Either way, proceed with caution.
Firestone inspection versus independent mechanics
Firestone is a national chain with standardized procedures, so you know roughly what to expect. An independent mechanic may offer a more personalized inspection and might spend extra time on systems you are concerned about. Independent shops often charge less ($75 to $150) but may not provide as formal a written report.
The advantage of Firestone is consistency and the ability to schedule quickly at many locations. The advantage of an independent shop is that the mechanic may have more time to dig deeper and may be more willing to answer your questions in detail. Some buyers use both — they get a Firestone inspection first, then take the car to an independent mechanic if the Firestone report raises concerns about a specific system.
Whichever route you choose, make sure the inspector has no financial incentive to recommend unnecessary repairs. Firestone is a tire and service center, so there is always a potential conflict of interest — they may recommend work you do not need. An independent shop with no connection to the seller has fewer incentives to upsell, though this is not a may provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a car I do not own yet to Firestone for an inspection?
Yes. The seller or their representative must be present or provide written permission. Bring any paperwork you have about the vehicle. Firestone will not perform work on a car without the owner's consent, but a pre-purchase inspection is a standard request they handle regularly.
How long does a pre-purchase inspection take?
Most inspections take one to two hours. The exact time depends on the vehicle's age, condition, and how thorough the inspection is. Call your local Firestone store to ask how long they typically need for the make and model you are considering.
What should I do if the inspection finds serious problems?
You have three options: ask the seller to repair the items before closing, ask for a price reduction to cover the cost of repairs, or walk away from the deal. Use the written report to support your position. If the seller refuses to negotiate and you are uncomfortable with the car's condition, it is better to find another vehicle.
Does Firestone's inspection include a test drive?
No. The inspection is performed at the shop and includes a stationary check of major systems. If you want a road test, ask the seller to let you drive the car yourself before or after the Firestone inspection, or request that Firestone perform a separate test drive service if they offer it.
Can I use the Firestone inspection report to negotiate with the seller?
Yes. The report is yours to keep and share. Present it factually and use it to support requests for repairs, price reductions, or cost-sharing. A professional, detailed report carries more weight than verbal complaints, so keep it in writing when you communicate with the seller.