We spent hours (and a little cash) on car inspections in Calgary — but it was worth it for peace of mind!
When I moved to Calgary, I quickly realized that my trusty old car needed a little TLC—especially when its check engine light flickered like a disco ball. I took it to a local inspection service, half-expecting a grumpy mechanic and a long list of repairs.
Instead, I met a cheerful technician who could diagnose issues faster than I could spill my coffee! As he pointed out the less-than-ideal tread on my tires, I found myself laughing instead of panicking.
If you want a car inspection that feels more like a friendly chat than a chore, read on to discover the best inspection services in Calgary!
How Much Do Car Inspection Services in Calgary?
Car inspections in Calgary costs generally range from $90 to $220, influenced by factors such as the inspection location and the type of vehicle being assessed. Typically, the buyer is responsible for the inspection fee; however, it’s often possible to negotiate this expense with the seller, especially in the context of a used car purchase.
1. InspectaCAR
Address: 542 38a Ave SE
Phone: +1 403-266-5588
Business hours: Tuesday to Friday: 8am to 5pm
InspectaCAR has built its reputation on thorough inspections, auto insurance services, and car maintenance for both pre-purchase and new vehicles.
Beyond the essentials like oil changes and battery checkups, they focus solely on inspections—and they do a fantastic job of it.
They offer five types of inspections: Prime Mechanical, Premium Pre-purchase, insurance, out-of-province, and fleet inspections. Their inspections cover up to 240 points, leaving no detail unchecked.
One thing that makes InspectaCAR stand out is their ‘No Repair Policy.’ Since they don’t handle repairs, there’s no pressure to push unnecessary fixes or hike up repair costs, which we think is a huge plus.
To keep your vehicle in top shape, they also provide warranty-approved maintenance services, helping you steer clear of unexpected repairs. Plus, booking an appointment is easy with their online system.
And after each inspection, they’ll hand you a neatly printed list of recommended repairs—ready for your mechanic to get right to work. When it comes to car inspection services in Calgary, InspectaCAR is a top choice.
Professional and friendly
“Very professional and friendly. The receptionist, Corinne, is wonderful and has a great sense of humour. Carlo is a very thorough and professional mechanic.”
-Mr. Gu, Google Review
Very fast service
“Very fast service, we were in and out in just over an hour for an out of province inspection. Lady working the front desk was really friendly and helpful.”
-Mr. Shi, Google Review
2. Ryanco Automotive
Address: 2300 18 Ave NE
Phone: +1 403-291-5553
Business hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 7:30am to 4pm
- Friday: 7:30am to 3pm
For over 20 years, Ryanco Automotive has been a go-to full-service facility for commercial vehicle owners, offering a wide range of repairs, maintenance, and services. With locations in both Calgary and Strathmore, they’ve got you covered!
Their car inspections are thorough, featuring a 250-point inspection performed by skilled technicians with full electronic diagnostics.
If you’re looking for extras on a pre-purchase inspection, they offer add-ons like a compression test and scan tool hookup.
Ryanco’s pricing is budget-friendly: insurance and out-of-province inspections are just $138, while a 140-point pre-purchase inspection starts at only $142. They also offer services such as oil changes, brake repairs, and engine diagnostics.
While we’d love to see an online booking option for added convenience, Ryanco’s honest, efficient, and affordable service makes them a solid choice for vehicle inspections.
We recommend them for anyone in need of reliable and trustworthy automotive services.
Honest, efficient, and affordable service
“If you like honest, efficient, and affordable service, then Ryanco is the shop for you! I have done two out of province inspections here recently and my expectations were surpassed both times.”
-Mr. Zhaius, Google Review
Friendly and supportive staff
“100% recommend. I need Out of province car inspection. The staff was very friendly and supportive. Leave my car there at 8am and have everything done before noon. Reasonable price.”
-Mr. Minh, Google Review
3. Car Salon
Address: 1725 32 Ave NE
Phone: +1 403-250-3722
Business hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8am to 5pm
- Saturday: 9am to 1pm
Since 1998, Car Salon has been the top choice for inspecting and certifying classic cars, with a rigorous 400-point checklist.
They’ll let you know if the car’s service history checks out, if it’s been through any major accidents, and if the previous owner took good care of it.
But Car Salon isn’t just for inspections—they’re a full-service automotive hub. In addition to essentials like pre-purchase, insurance, and out-of-province inspections, they also handle fleet and commercial vehicle checks.
Bring your car in, and you’ll receive a thorough report on its current condition along with an estimate for any necessary repairs.
Car Salon prides itself on providing in-depth inspection services for all kinds of vehicles.
Though their rates are a bit higher, the meticulous inspection they provide is worth every penny, offering peace of mind that your vehicle is safe and dependable.
Honest and straightforward
“We were very pleased with the service we received at Car Salon. Perry and Glen have great personalities and are honest and straightforward.”
-Mr. Eden, Google Review
Excellent pricing
“The communication was fantastic, the work was of the highest quality, pricing was excellent and every staff member I came across was extremely welcoming.”
-Mr. Godwin, Google Review
4. instaMek Auto Repair & Inspections
Address: 1715 13 Ave SW
Phone: +1 403-917-1218
Business hours: Monday to Saturday: 8am to 6pm
instaMek has assembled a team of top-notch professionals, pairing automotive mechanics with over 20 years of experience alongside savvy tech developers.
What’s even better is that you can get a quote online! That’s right—a fixed quote will land directly in your inbox, no hassle.
You don’t have to sit around a repair shop—instaMek’s certified mechanics come right to your home or workplace, so you can keep your day running smoothly.
They back up their work with a comprehensive insurance plan and careful processes to keep your property clean and protected. Plus, with a 12-month/20,000 km warranty on all parts and labor, they offer peace of mind that lasts.
Once the job’s done, you can pay securely by credit or debit card, and you’ll receive a detailed report via email, breaking down the repair.
For anyone needing automotive maintenance or repairs, instaMek’s mobile service brings unbeatable convenience, quality, and reassurance.
Thorough professionals
“I have got my car serviced by instamek a few times now. They are thorough professionals. Keep up the good work.”
-Ms. Sai, Google Review
Good service from start to finish
“Very good service from start to finish. Davoud the mechanic arrived perfectly on time and was very knowledgeable.”
-Mr. Walter, Google Review
5. Harvest Hills Auto
Address: 9650 Harvest Hills Blvd N #800
Phone: +1 403-226-9933
Business hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:30am to 5pm
- Saturday: 8am to 5pm
Since 2006, Harvest Hills Auto has earned a solid reputation for used car, pre-purchase, and comprehensive vehicle inspections.
They excel at identifying potential red flags, from frame damage and past repair issues to hidden rust, flood or fire damage, fluid leaks, and overdue maintenance.
As a certified inspection facility, they’re equipped to handle inspections for all vehicle types, having worked on models from Dodge, Chrysler, Ford, GM, and more.
A big draw for customers is their extensive service range—covering everything from inspections and battery replacements to brake repairs, digital inspections, free roadside assistance, and tire and wheel services.
Harvest Hills Auto uses cutting-edge technology to both diagnose and document issues. If they uncover something, they’ll send you a photo for your records, ensuring complete transparency.
Overall, we highly recommend Harvest Hills Auto for their wide-ranging services and commitment to clear, honest communication.
Trustworthy
“Harvest Hills Auto has consistently proven to be the most trustworthy and reliable mechanics I have encountered in my 36 years.”
-Ms. Belanger, Google Review
Super honest and straight shooters
“These guys are amazing. Super honest and straight shooters. If something doesn’t need fixing or can wait, they will let you know.”
-Ms. Belanger, Google Review