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Our 6-Point Inspection Process

Every vehicle must pass our rigorous inspection before it earns a spot on our lot.

Key Takeaways

  • Every car must pass before it earns a spot on our lot
  • Cars that fail get sent back — no exceptions
  • 6 steps: physical, mechanical, computer, assessment, repairs, test drives
  1. 1

    Full Physical Inspection

    Every part of the car is checked for damage, rust, and previous repair work.

    Close inspection of a worn suspension seal in the Top Gear Auto shop
    From our shop
  2. 2

    Full Mechanical Inspection on Lift

    Engine, transmission, suspension, power steering — we check for leaks, noises, smells, and physical damage.

    Worn suspension ball joint inspected in the Top Gear Auto shop
    From our shop
  3. 3

    Full Computer Diagnostic

    All current and history codes retrieved from main modules. Live data pulled to ensure no hidden modifications.

    Engine-bay diagnostic work at Top Gear Auto
    From our shop
  4. 4

    Full Assessment — Accept or Reject

    Parts ordered and vehicle either accepted or rejected. Rejected cars go back to auction — we don't sell what doesn't meet our standards.

    Worn brake rotor assessed in the Top Gear Auto shop
    From our shop
  5. 5

    All Repairs + Final Detail

    Every issue fixed, final inspection completed, and a full professional detail inside and out.

    Engine assembly work in progress at Top Gear Auto
    From our shop
  6. 6

    Multiple Test Drives

    At least 3 different test drives to catch anything that was overlooked. Only then does it earn a spot on our lot.

    Top Gear Auto shop exterior in Iowa City
    From our shop

Inspection Questions

What does the 6-point inspection cover?

Our 6-point inspection covers a full physical inspection, a mechanical inspection on a lift, a computer diagnostic, an accept-or-reject assessment, required repairs and detailing, and multiple test drives before a vehicle earns a spot on our lot.

What happens if a car fails inspection?

Cars that fail our assessment are sent back to auction. Only vehicles that complete the inspection, repair, detailing, and test-drive process are offered for sale.

Have Questions About Our Inspection?

Give us a call at (319) 853-8861 — we're happy to walk you through our process.

Call Now — (319) 853-8861