- 8926 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78217
- (210) 942-0596
- Mon–Fri 7:30am–5:30pm
- ★ Specials
A used European vehicle can be a great investment — or an expensive mistake. RhineWest's pre-purchase inspection goes far beyond a visual check. We perform a full factory-software diagnostic scan, mechanical inspection, and fluid analysis to give you a complete picture of the vehicle before you commit.
At a Glance
✓
ISTA, XENTRY, ODIS, or PIWIS for the specific brand
✓
BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Porsche, Volkswagen
✓
Mechanical, electrical, and cosmetic assessment
✓
Detailed findings with cost estimates for needed repairs
✓
Most inspections completed within 2 hours
We perform a full scan of all control modules using the brand-appropriate factory software — ISTA for BMW, XENTRY for Mercedes, ODIS for Audi/VW, PIWIS for Porsche. All stored faults are documented.
Oil leaks, coolant leaks, belt and hose condition, compression and leakdown testing where indicated, transmission fluid condition, and drivetrain component inspection.
Brake pad thickness measurement, rotor depth and condition, caliper inspection, brake fluid moisture content testing, and parking brake function.
Ball joints, control arms, tie rods, wheel bearings, shock absorbers, and air suspension components where applicable — all inspected and documented.
For M96/M97 Porsche engines, we perform oil analysis and inspection to assess IMS bearing condition — one of the most important pre-purchase checks for these vehicles.
We assess timing chain and tensioner condition on high-risk engines (BMW N20, VW/Audi EA888) and review available service history for maintenance gaps.
Coolant condition, pressure testing for leaks, water pump inspection, and cooling fan operation — especially critical on high-mileage European vehicles.
All lights, windows, sunroof, HVAC, navigation, and feature operation verified. Airbag deployment history checked via factory diagnostic scan.
You receive a complete written report of all findings, including photographs of issues and estimated repair costs — giving you negotiating leverage or a reason to walk away.
Unusually low prices on European vehicles often reflect undisclosed mechanical issues. A $300 inspection can save you $5,000 in repairs you didn't know about.
No service history means you don't know what's been maintained or neglected. Our inspection fills in the gaps with a current-condition assessment.
High-mileage European vehicles have predictable failure points — timing chains, cooling systems, suspension bushings. We know exactly what to look for.
Fresh paint or new parts can conceal accident damage or recent failures. Our inspection looks beyond the cosmetics to the mechanical and electronic condition.
Private sales offer no warranty or recourse. A pre-purchase inspection is your only protection against undisclosed problems.
Buying a vehicle you can't test drive yourself? We inspect on your behalf and provide a complete report with photos so you can make a confident decision remotely.
Dealership used car inspections are designed to prepare a car for sale — not to protect the buyer. They don't use brand-specific diagnostic software, don't check airbag deployment history, and don't perform compression testing or cooling system pressure tests. Our inspection is designed entirely in your interest.
Schedule an inspection before you sign — it's the smartest $300 you'll spend.