Engine endoscopy: why is it a mandatory step of checking before buying a car?

Buying a used car is always a lottery. The exterior shine of the body and a clean interior often hide critical problems under the hood. The most expensive unit of any car is the engine, and it is its condition that is the most difficult to assess by eye.

This is where it comes to the rescueVideo endoscopyis the only way to look inside the engine without disassembling it.

What is endoscopy and how does it work?

This is an inspection of the internal cavities of the engine using a special device - a flexible probe with a high-resolution camera (endoscope). The master inserts the camera through the spark plug holes or nozzle holes, which allows you to see the state of the cylinder-piston group on the monitor in real time.

What do we look for during the inspection?

1. Scuffs on the cylinder walls.These are deep scratches that occur due to overheating, poor lubrication, or catalyst failure. Scuffing leads to huge oil consumption and loss of compression.
2. The condition of the valves.We check for carbon deposits (coking), which prevents the valves from closing tightly, and traces of burnout.
3. The presence of oil in the combustion chambers.This is direct evidence of wear of lubricating valve stem caps or piston rings.
4. The condition of the pistons.Check for cracks, carbon deposits or traces of contact with valves.
5. Antifreeze in the cylinders.Endoscopy allows you to detect a breakdown of the cylinder head gasket at an early stage.

Why is computer diagnostics not enough?

The scanner can show errors on the sensors, but itdoes not see physical wear and tear of the metal. The engine can run smoothly and without errors, but have the initial stage of scuffing, which will turn into a major overhaul after 5-10 thousand kilometers of your mileage.

Figure to think about:The cost of endoscopy is ten times less than the cost of the "capital" of the engine. This is the best investment in your peace of mind when choosing a car.

Don't buy a "pig in a poke" - check the engine from the inside!

Are you planning to buy a car? Do not rely on the seller's words about "perfect condition". Our specialists will conduct a detailed video endoscopy and provide you with a full report on the condition of the cylinders. We will help you either bring down the price with reasoned reason, or refuse the problematic option in time.