recommendations for auto appraiser/inspector when buying used
 

I contracted Carchex to check out a car for me today. Anyone have experience with them, and were you happy with the result?

Also, whether you have experience with Carchex or not, is there another national service you would recommend?

Thanx,
Steve

Not sure of Carchex specifically, but last year I was selling my Corvette Z06 and a potential buyer sent a rep from one of these companies. I felt that he must have taken some two day course on auto inspection to qualify for the job. He said he never drove a Vette before and he couldn't even open the hood without my help. I didn't have much confidence in his abilities. If you are buying long distance, just check the location of the nearest Mercedes dealer and have them do pre-purchase inspection. The seller should have no objection since you are paying for it as long he can wait for the car while it’s being checked out.

whats a pre-purchase inspection usually run? (i live near portland if it helps)

I paid $250 to have a local Indy shop evaluate a '94 E420 for me a few months ago. They pulled valve covers, checked timing belt, etc..... money well spent in my opinion.