Common Questions

What are the benefits of using Buyer Guardian?

We manage the transaction for you. We take care of everything from title verification to vehicle inspection to lien payoffs to vehicle shipping so that you can sit back and enjoy your new purchase. You could possibly do all of this stuff yourself, but why go through the headache?

Acting as a third party, Buyer Guardian facilitates secure vehicle transactions that protect both the buyer and the seller. We also make buying a vehicle located out-of-state an easier and more enjoyable experience than was previously available.

How does Buyer Guardian help me? What services does Buyer Guardian provide?

We'll help buyer and seller manage the transaction for a successful outcome. We provide or manage vehicle inspections, title and ownership verification, secure transfer of payment from buyer to seller, vehicle shipping and more.

How does Buyer Guardian protect me against vehicle fraud?

Buyer Guardian manages the entire process so that the buyer receives the vehicle and a valid, legal title and that the seller receives good funds.

Title fraud and payment fraud are two of the biggest scams on the Internet today regarding vehicle purchases. We can help prevent both from happening to you.

What is included in the Buyer Guardian Gold or Platinum Vehicle Protection Plan?

We verify the identities of the buyer and seller, the location and condition of the vehicle, the authenticity of the title and the validity of the seller's ownership of the vehicle. We also verify the amount of any outstanding liens against the vehicle. For sellers, we do all of this plus verify good funds from the buyer. Payment for the vehicle is verified through Buyer Guardian. A California-licensed escrow company is used for residents of the state of California.

Where are Buyer Guardian vehicle services available?

We provide our secure transaction service for any car, truck, SUV, motorcycle, boat or RV purchased within the United States. International customers please call us at 1-800-416-8357 for additional information - international service is not currently available, but may be available soon.

How do I start a vehicle transaction?

Once you have identified the vehicle you want to buy, or when your vehicle is ready to sell, just click on the 'See  Our Products' tab at the top of any page, or call us at 1-800-416-8357 - we can take your order over the phone (Monday-Friday 10 am - 8 pm Eastern Time).

Is there a contract or some sort of legal document involved?

The Terms and Conditions specify our requirements and your obligations with respect to our services. These are displayed during your online checkout, or we can fax or email a copy to you. The vehicle purchase agreement or bill of sale is not a part of the Buyer Guardian process, and is strictly between you and the seller (or buyer).

If the vehicle history report or the pre-purchase inspection (if included in my plan) come back with problems, do I get a refund?

You are hiring Buyer Guardian to perform these checks for you and to ensure that you are receiving a vehicle in as-advertised condition with a merchantable title. If any of the reports come back with problems, we are making you aware of these problems to avoid a potentially disastrous transaction. No refund is available because all of these reports, good or bad, are part of the valuable service we are providing. Hey - it's better to be out a few hundred dollars rather than spend thousands only to get a poorly-running car, a salvage vehicle, a vehicle with a bad title, or worse.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Questions

What is included in a pre-purchase vehicle inspection?

You receive an inspection report together with detailed photos of the interior and exterior of the car. The inspection report details any problems with the condition of the major components of the vehicle. This is a visual inspection - no diagnostic tests are performed.

What items are reviewed during the inspection?

Inspections are done on-site, wherever the vehicle is located. The inspector looks at over 150 points, including:
  • body panels
  • trunk/luggage compartment
  • window glass
  • vehicle interior/seats/upholstery
  • wheels & tires
  • dash/controls/HVAC/stereo
  • engine compartment
  • brakes/transmission are tested during a road test
  • The above list is just a summary - other items are also checked out. The purpose of the inspection is to inform you of the general condition of the vehicle. We are not doing detailed testing, nor are we guaranteeing that the car will not experience mechanical failure, or will last for some period of time. The purpose of the pre-purchase inspection is to make sure that the condition of the car advertised to you is similar to its real condition.

    What qualifications are held by the inspectors performing these inspections?

    Most inspectors are ASE certified (see the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence website for details) and have worked in the industry for years.

    How long does a pre-purchase inspection take?

    That depends upon the availability of the seller's vehicle. Inspections are typically completed and a report is forwarded to you in 3-4 business days, and often sooner.

    Are all inspections the same price?

    Older cars (20+ years), exotic or classic cars and cars located in rural areas may all cost more to inspect. We'll contact you to let you know if this is the case for your online order, or you can call us at 1-800-416-8357 to determine if your vehicle will cost more than normal to inspect.

    Is the vehicle title or vehicle maintenance paperwork checked as a part of the inspection?

    The Gold and Platinum Protection plans include title verification - we verify the title and ownership of the vehicle. Inspections alone do not include title verification.

    Does the inspection include a diagnostic or compression check?

    The vehicle is inspected on site - typically at the home of the seller. Detailed diagnostic or compression checks are just not viable. However, inspectors do check for oil pressure (where possible), "blow-by" and fluid leaks. These checks will likely identify any internal engine problems.

    Can I speak with the inspector after the inspection is complete?

    Schedules can make this very difficult. We try to accommodate such a request when we can. Additional fees may apply (we have to pay the inspector for their time).

    How much is an inspection? Can I get an inspection only?

    An inspection is included in the Platinum Protection plan. Typically, you may purchase an inspection only for $199. Older cars (20+ years), exotic or classic cars and cars located in rural areas may all cost more to inspect. Please call us at 1-800-416-8357 to determine if your vehicle will cost more than normal to inspect.

    Is the inspection guaranteed? What if I have problems with the vehicle later?

    The inspection is NOT guaranteed. A vehicle contains a large number of parts that an inspector just cannot see or cannot test. Those parts may appear OK during the inspection but may later fail. Because we are not certifying the car and not performing diagnostic tests, we just can't guarantee the inspection. For those interested, more detailed and guaranteed inspections are available - call us at 1-800-416-8357 for details.

    In addition, we can help you get quotes on extended warranties for your vehicle. Extended warranties cover most parts on your vehicle and can be a real benefit when you experience a mechanical failure or breakdown.

    I am buying a numbers-matching GTO Judge and a 1932 Duesenberg. Will your inspections cover these vehicles?

    The inspections provided to you by Buyer Guardian are really visual in nature. We are not checking frame and engine numbers to ensure that they match. We are not checking a vehicle's registry to determine if it is authentic or original. Our inspections may not be appropriate for very expensive or collector vehicles. Call us to discuss.

    What is the cancellation policy?

    We will refund your inspection fee if you cancel an inspection before the inspector departs for the inspection. The full amount of the inspection is refunded, less a $25 service fee. Sorry, but no refund is available once the inspection is complete. Please also note that the full inspection fee is charged to you if an inspection appointment is scheduled by the inspector but the seller does not show up.

    Shipping/Nationwide Delivery Questions

    Why should I use Buyer Guardian for shipping?

    Working with freight companies can be confusing and time-consuming. We'll get multiple bids for you, take care of the paperwork, and manage the pick-up, movement and delivery of your vehicle - once again saving you time and money.

    What is the cost for delivery?

    Cost varies depending on the pick-up and delivery location, the type of vehicle and the shipping options chosen. Call us at 1-800-416-8357 for a customized quote for your vehicle.

    What is the cost based upon?

    Shipping cost is based primarily upon four factors: 1) distance, 2) when you want the vehicle delivered, 3) enclosed or non-enclosed shipping vehicle (enclosed costs more) and 4) whether you want door-to-door delivery or delivery to a freight depot (door-to-door is more expensive). As all of these variables will be unique to your shipping needs, call us for a customized quote - we'll get you multiple bids.

    Where will my vehicle be delivered?

    Your vehicle can be delivered to a metro-area freight depot (least expensive option), or to any address you specify - your home, office or other location - for an additional fee.

    I want my vehicle delivered to my office. Is that possible?

    Absolutely - just call us with your office address. We'll make sure your vehicle is delivered there during work hours.

    Is enclosed shipping available? I want to protect the car I'm buying.

    Yes - enclosed shipping is available. Your vehicle will be protected from the weather, road debris and vandalism.

    Do I need to be present when my vehicle is delivered?

    Yes, you must be present when your vehicle is delivered. You will need to sign some paperwork to take delivery of your vehicle.

    Do you guarantee pick-up or delivery dates?

    Too many variable factors can affect pick-up and delivery dates, including inclement weather, road closures, mechanical breakdowns and other factors. We will provide you with an expected window for pick-up and delivery, and we strive to meet this window.

    What if my vehicle is damaged during transport?

    The shipping companies with which we work all carry insurance that covers damage during transport. Maximum limits vary, but are usually around $250,000. Additional supplemental insurance is also available.  Call for details.


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    Pre-Purchase Inspection FAQs | Nationwide Delivery FAQs | General FAQs

    Our Customers Love Us

    "I got my dream car! I will definitely recommend Buyer Guardian to others who are car buying online, and will use them again in the future.

    I was pleased with the service and delivery (they even washed the car)."

    John – Denver, CO