Probably trading the wife's Impreza for a 2002 Forester and want to check it out properly. I've used BCAA before but wonder if going to a more Subie familiar shop would be better? Either a Subie dealer or repairer? Any suggestions in the Vancouver / Burnaby area? Cost?
The Forester has an over $2,000 accident declaration on it, how do I get the details?
Thanks for your help.

I think BCAA is pretty good.......I've always used them. All they do is inspect vehicles all day long. Eventhough the don't do compression or leakdown test, they do take it for test drives and hear and feel for anomalies. If you're super anal, there's always your local suby dealer.

yeah i agree with bubba g

bcaa does a pretty decent job...... saved my a$$ before!

Get a Carfax package ?

Thanks for the tips - what does the lien check, etc. thru ICBC provide and cost?

It's usually around thirty dollars I think. It should tell you how much the damage was over $2000. And if there were any under $2000. Very good thing to do. If you are purchasing from a dealer, you should be able to request a copy since it should be on file.

Testing a used cars involves a few simple steps:

1) ICBC report for $20 online. It will give you the vehicle's claim history. This includes all thefts, vandalism and accidents claimed through ICBC - whether paid out or not. For the accident over $2000, you'll want details. Hopefully you can get your hands on the claim sheet, or a copy of it. If the claim sheet isn't available, be suspicious. IN ADDITION: any damages fixed privately, without ICBC's knowledge, will not be on this report.

2) PPSA search for another $20 (price varies). This check can be done through insurance agents, or it can be done online (Find a BC website, since this is provincial legislation). They have access to the Personal Property Registry where any liens on the vehicle must be registered to be effective. If a mechanic or a bank is owed money and has registered a lien on the vehicle, you are responsible for it if you purchase that vehicle.

3) CARFAX - always good to do on top of the ICBC report.

4) BCAA inspection. They do a thorough check for under $100. They check to ensure that everything that's supposed to be there is there. BEWARE: they generally won't check for wear and tear. For example, if a seat is frayed, if there are door dings, if there are scratches in the interior, if the trunk squeeks (especially after an accident) ... these are all things that YOU will have to apprise yourself of.

5) If you want to be thorough, do a leak down test at Don Docksteader. They charge one hour labour ($105+tax) for this test.

6) Test drive. Make sure that you think everything looks, feels, and sounds proper.

Good luck.

I would take it to the dealer. They know what they are looking at and what to look for. I had mine checked at docks and they even cheked for any outstanding recalls. I think it only cost me around 100 bucks.

good luck.

Just make sure you check everything out. Best 50-100 bucks you will ever spend