12-25-2025, 03:28 AM
I'm in the process of buying a used 2018 Ford F-150 from a private seller, and we've agreed on a price pending a pre-purchase inspection. The seller seems honest, but I want to be thorough. What exactly should I be looking for in a good inspection service? Is it better to take it to a dedicated inspection company, a Ford dealership, or a trusted independent mechanic? Beyond the obvious engine and transmission check, are there specific known issues with this model year I should ask the mechanic to pay extra attention to, like the transmission shudder or potential rust in certain areas?