Buying a used car in Canada comes with its share of risks—harsh winters, road salt damage, and flood-prone regions can all take a toll on a vehicle’s condition. Whether you’re shopping through AutoTrader, Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, or a dealership, a mobile pre-purchase inspection is your best protection before committing to a vehicle.
We’ve compared the top mobile inspection services operating in Canada based on inspection quality, regional availability, pricing, and features that matter to Canadian drivers.
1. iNeedaPPi Mobile Car Inspectors
Best For: Comprehensive Inspections with Market Value Guidance
Pros:
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Speed. Normally same-day service.
- Cost. Only $169.99.
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Experienced inspectors who go to the vehicle—home, work, or dealership.
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Reports include 50+ photos, test drive summary, OBD scan, cosmetic and mechanical checks, rust/frame inspection (especially important in snowbelt regions).
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Offers Market Price Appraisal add-on (~$20 CAD) to help you understand if you’re paying a fair price.
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Independent service—no dealership or seller bias.
Cons:
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Service may not be available in some rural or remote regions.
Average Cost: ~$169.99 CAD for standard inspections; +$20 CAD for market appraisal.
2. Lemon Squad (U.S.-Based, Limited Canada Availability)
Best For: Cross-Border or Imported Vehicle Buyers
Pros:
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Based in the U.S. but offers limited mobile inspection coverage in Canadian metro areas.
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Detailed reports with 30–50 photos, ideal for buyers importing U.S. vehicles into Canada.
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Classic and exotic car inspections available.
Cons:
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Not a Canada-first company; availability is limited and scheduling can take longer.
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Pricing in USD; exchange rates and cross-border logistics can add to the cost.
Average Cost: ~$270–330 CAD depending on exchange rates and location.
3. Canadian Tire Vehicle Inspection Services
Best For: Local Convenience
Pros:
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Available at hundreds of locations nationwide.
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Trusted Canadian brand with technicians who understand local conditions (road salt, winter wear, emissions standards).
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Walk-in or appointment-based inspections.
Cons:
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Not mobile—you’ll need to bring the vehicle to them.
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Some locations may not offer comprehensive used car inspections (varies by province).
Average Cost: ~$140–190 CAD depending on province and inspection level.
4. Lube City & OK Tire / Regional Chains
Best For: Basic Used Car Checks in Alberta, B.C., Ontario
Pros:
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Many local or regional chains offer safety and mechanical inspections.
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Convenient if you already service your car with them.
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Knowledgeable about local vehicle wear and tear patterns.
Cons:
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Not mobile.
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Typically less detailed than third-party specialists focused on pre-purchase evaluations.
Average Cost: ~$100–150 CAD
5. Dealership Inspections
Best For: Buyer-Seller Agreed Evaluations
Pros:
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Some dealerships allow or even offer third-party inspections for used inventory.
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May include CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) checks.
Cons:
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Not independent—dealerships have a vested interest in the sale.
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Limited transparency and can be biased toward the seller’s interests.
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Not mobile; car must be brought in.
Average Cost: ~$120–180 CAD
Summary: Best Mobile Pre-Purchase Car Inspections in Canada
| Service | Best For | Avg. Cost (CAD) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| iNeedaPPi | Best overall, mobile + price check | ~$169.99 | Photos, OBD, rust check, value appraisal |
| Lemon Squad | Importing U.S. vehicles | ~$270–330 | 50+ photos, good for exotics/imports |
| Canadian Tire | In-town convenience | ~$140–190 | Reputable, not mobile |
| Lube City/OK Tire | Local chains | ~$100–150 | Quick mechanical checks, non-mobile |
| Dealership Inspect. | Selling dealer cooperation | ~$120–180 | Not independent, can be biased |
Final Thoughts for Canadian Buyers
Used car prices in Canada are still elevated in 2025, and a poor decision could cost you thousands. A pre-purchase inspection doesn’t just protect your wallet—it protects your safety. Whether you’re buying in person or online, always get an unbiased expert to look under the hood.
For Canadian buyers wanting full transparency and mobile convenience, iNeedaPPi Mobile Car Inspectors offers the most complete, trustworthy inspections—especially with the added bonus of fair market value reports tailored to your city.
