How to choose a pre-purchase inspection route for a 2016 Subaru Outback?

[Joseph_L]

I'm looking at a private sale for a 2016 Subaru Outback with 85,000 miles that seems to be in great shape, but I want to get a pre-purchase car inspection for peace of mind. The seller is agreeable, but I'm not sure what the best route is—should I take it to a dealership service department, a trusted independent mechanic, or a mobile inspection service? Also, what specific things should I ask the inspector to focus on for this model, known for its CVT transmission and potential head gasket issues in older engines? I want to make sure the inspection is thorough enough to catch any major hidden problems.

[JacobT]

Independent Subaru specialists are worth it. Hire a shop that routinely handles front-wheel-drive flat-fours and CVTs. Request a full pre-purchase inspection (PPI) that runs 3–4 hours and covers: road test, compression test and/or leak-down, CVT fluid condition and level, a full OBD-II diagnostic scan, a visual undercarriage inspection, and a check for recalls/TSBs. Ask the tech to specifically flag head-gasket signs (milky oil, coolant in oil, overheating history) and cooling-system attention (water pump, thermostat, hoses).