LONG BEACH, Calif. -

AiM, a new- and used-vehicle inspection services company, announced Wednesday the launch of a grading system to help customers easily determine the quality and condition of a car or truck.

The grading system is based on AiM’s used-vehicle inspection report and AutoCheck Score history report.

“Determining which 2010 Ford Mustang or 2009 Nissan Altima to buy is now easier for AiM customers,” said Eric Widmer, vice president of sales and operations at AiM, which recently conducted its 35 millionth inspection.

“Our grades clearly label the good cars from the bad. Prospective buyers can find the best used cars right down to the year, make and model from coast to coast. And, sellers are able to show an expert, third-party vehicle grade to attract potential buyers,” he added.

Developed by AiM and used by their nearly 500 full-time inspectors, the grading system accounts for a bumper-to-bumper review for mechanical issues, cosmetic blemishes and structural damages, according to management.

The information is then turned into a letter grade. Letter grades are provided on all of AiM’s packages (AiM Plus, AiM Preferred and AiM Certified, which includes engine oil and transmission fluid analysis with a warranty for these parts).

The grades include:

—“A” vehicles are in excellent condition and in great mechanical working order.
—“B” vehicles are clean, run well and have minor cosmetic blemishes.
—“C” vehicles have higher mileage, good mechanics and have some cosmetic blemishes.
—“D” vehicles have undergone major repairs or are in need of major mechanical or major cosmetic repairs.
—“F” vehicles are salvage, have flood or fire damage.

The condition report consists of an AiM professional’s visual, mechanical and road test evaluation, officials indicated. Each item on the condition report is weighted based on importance to determine the grade. Grades are clearly represented on the condition report, the company noted.

For more information, visit www.aimmobileinspections.com.