Sample Report
This Is What You Get
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1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS
Cranberry Red / Black vinyl top
VIN
136371A100001
Mileage
62,400 (odometer reading)
Inspection Date
October 2026
Location
Fresno, CA
Inspection Type
Pre-Purchase Inspection
Overall Grade
Good
Executive Summary
A solid, driver-quality Chevelle with genuine appeal and a few honest issues. The engine runs well and the body is largely straight, but there is evidence of prior bodywork on the driver's rear quarter and the brake system needs attention before extended driving. Not a trailer queen — but a real car you can enjoy while you sort it out.
Engine bay — 454 V8, minor valve cover seepage noted passenger side
Undercarriage — frame rails solid, surface rust on rear subframe noted
Exterior
GoodPaint is a respray — color matches well but orange peel texture visible in direct light, particularly on the hood and roof.
Driver's rear quarter panel shows evidence of prior repair. Filler detected behind the wheel arch, approximately 6–8 inches in diameter. Repair is competent but present.
All body panels are straight with consistent gaps. Doors open and close cleanly. No visible rust through on any panel.
Chrome trim is in good condition throughout. Bumpers show minor pitting consistent with age — no dents or bends.
Vinyl top has a small separation at the rear driver's corner, approximately 2 inches. Cosmetic only at this stage but worth monitoring.
Frame & Undercarriage
GoodFrame rails are solid with no cracks, bends, or evidence of collision repair. Surface rust present but no structural compromise.
Floor pans are intact. Minor surface rust on the passenger side but no holes or soft spots.
Rear subframe shows moderate surface rust accumulation. Recommend cleaning and treating before winter storage.
No evidence of frame straightening or major collision history.
Engine & Drivetrain
Good454 V8 starts readily, idles smoothly, and pulls cleanly through the RPM range. No unusual noises at idle or under load.
Minor valve cover seepage on the passenger side. Common on these engines — not a concern but worth keeping an eye on.
Turbo-Hydramatic 400 automatic shifts crisply through all gears. No slipping or hesitation detected.
Coolant appears older — color suggests it hasn't been changed recently. Recommend a flush and fresh coolant before summer driving.
No smoke from exhaust at startup or under load. Oil is clean on the dipstick.
Brakes & Suspension
CautionRear brake drums show significant wear and the passenger side wheel cylinder is seeping. This needs to be addressed before any extended driving.
Front disc brakes are functional but rotors are at minimum thickness. Budget for a front brake service in the near term.
Front suspension components are tight — no play in the ball joints or tie rod ends.
Rear leaf springs show slight sag on the driver's side. Car sits level but the springs have seen some miles.
Interior
GoodBucket seats are in good condition. Driver's seat shows normal wear but no tears or broken springs.
Dash is crack-free — unusual for a California car of this age. All gauges present and correct.
Carpet is a replacement — not original but fits well and is in good condition.
Headliner has a small stain near the rear dome light. Likely from the vinyl top separation mentioned above.
Electrical
GoodAll exterior lights functional — headlights, taillights, turn signals, reverse lights.
Horn, wipers, and interior lights all operational.
Aftermarket stereo installed. Factory radio has been removed. Wiring appears clean and professionally done.
Inspector's Bottom Line
Must Fix
- — Rear brake wheel cylinder — seeping, needs immediate attention
- — Rear brake drums — worn, replace at same time as wheel cylinder
Should Address
- — Front brake rotors — at minimum thickness, budget for service
- — Coolant flush — overdue, do before summer driving
- — Rear subframe rust treatment — clean and coat before storage
Watch List
- — Vinyl top separation — monitor, reseal before it worsens
- — Valve cover seepage — minor, keep an eye on oil level
- — Rear leaf spring sag — not urgent but note for future
Inspector's Verdict
"This is a real Chevelle with real character and real issues — nothing that should scare you off, but nothing you should ignore either. The brake work is non-negotiable before you drive it hard. Everything else is normal maintenance on a 50-year-old car. If the price reflects the condition, it's a solid buy."
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