Order in which offer and pre-purchase inspection should be made

[05RunnerV8Me]

I need to make an offer and a possible purchase of a used 4th gen 4runner. I decided to get a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) done from a mechanic before purchase. My question is whether I should take the vehicle to the mechanic and then make an offer or should I first make an offer and then take it to a mechanic. With the first option - if the mechanic said that the vehicle was great then the seller would not budge on his price. In the second case, if the offer was made earlier the offer price would stick regardless of what minor negative things the mechanic would uncover in his investigation. I wanted to know what the readers here think I should do. Thanks

 

[BlackWorksInc]

Personally I would take it to the mechanic, let him check it out before you decide on a price, easier that way. Unless you think you can low ball him anyways...

BTW what kind of 4Runner?

 

[ARK_SWAMP_RIDER]

Inspection first. You need to know the condition of the vehicle, it could be worth every penny the seller's asking or also could be worth much less, all depends on inspection. I'd base my offer on that, and if there are several things it needs this will give you bargaining power. Best thing to do is have money in hand and to not be afraid to walk away.

 

[Snesley Wipes]

I would see if the seller would agree to a conditional price where he/she would knock off any major repair costs (if necessary) after a visit to an agreed mechanic...that way you wont have to waste your money every time you wanna verify a car.
Snes

 

[cali_axela]

I would see if the seller would agree to a conditional price where he/she would knock off any major repair costs (if necessary) after a visit to an agreed mechanic...that way you wont have to waste your money every time you wanna verify a car.
Snes

This is the way to do it. Agree on a price, conditionally, that you'd pay if it checks out 100% as expected. Any additional unexpected repairs the mechanic notes can/should be directly deducted from that initial offer.

 

[05RunnerV8Me]

Personally I would take it to the mechanic, let him check it out before you decide on a price, easier that way. Unless you think you can low ball him anyways...

BTW what kind of 4Runner?

05 4Runner SR5 v8 2WD