4S dealership records are directly connected to the manufacturer's database, making the data hard to tamper with and the most reliable, with original parts guaranteed; third-party repair shops usually are not connected, making their data unverifiable. Therefore, we only consider the connected records from 4S dealerships as valid historical documentation.

We use quantitative standards. Minor scratches less than 3 cm that do not reach the base coat (which can be polished) are considered normal wear; scratches over 3 cm deep to the base coat or dents larger than 2 cm in diameter will be highlighted in the inspection report's "Appearance Defect Distribution Map" with close-up photos.

Parts availability depends on the brand's official presence in your market, but even unsupported brands can be maintained through direct ordering. Check three channels first: the brand's official dealer network (if any), third-party importers who specialize in Chinese auto parts, and generic equivalents. For wear items like brake pads, filters, and wipers, aftermarket suppliers usually stock cross-references by VIN. For model-specific parts — headlights, sensors, control modules — order directly from China. Ask your exporter for the parts catalog by VIN, confirm OEM part numbers, and compare prices. A turbocharger that costs $900 from a local dealer often ships from China for $350 plus $80 freight. Practical tips: bundle multiple parts into one shipment to amortize freight; ask for DDP (delivered duty paid) pricing so customs clearance is handled; and always verify part numbers against your VIN before paying, as Chinese models have running changes mid-year. Keep a small stock of common wear parts — oil filters, air filters, spark plugs — to avoid a 4-6 week wait for routine maintenance.