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Vehicle Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

OPENLANE

Vehicle Inspector

Merrillville, IN

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor will provide vehicle inspection services at car dealerships. The Independent Contractor must ...

OPENLANE

Vehicle Inspector Contractor

Merrillville, IN

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor will provide vehicle inspection services at car dealerships. The Independent Contractor must ...

Jiffy Lube

Licensed Motor Vehicle Inspector-592

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

As a State Motor Vehicle Inspector, you will work safely in various roles to meet the individual needs of the customer, ensuring that they are confident in the safety of their vehicle. Benefits:

acv

Vehicle Condition Inspector

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Partnering with a Territory Manager and a team of Inspectors, conducts inspections of vehicles at dealerships, auctions, and off-lease, to detect damage, missing parts and mechanical problems.

OPENLANE

Automotive Inspector

Merrillville, IN

OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor will provide vehicle inspection services at car dealerships. The Independent Contractor must ...

acv

Vehicle Operations Specialist

West Dundee, IL

Conduct visual inspections upon arrival to note damage, mileage, and overall condition. * Document and photograph vehicle condition using inspection software or handheld devices. * Inspection ...

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Vehicle Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$20

$27

How much do vehicle inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle inspector in Chicago, IL is $20.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Vehicle Inspector Do?

A vehicle inspector is responsible for ensuring a car, truck, motorcycle, or other motor vehicle meets all industry regulations. As a vehicle inspector, you may check emissions, verify that the owner’s auto insurance is valid, check for wear and tear, review the title for accuracy, gather information needed to register, and complete documentation on your findings. If a car does not pass inspection, you provide recommendations on what to address. In the case of an accident, you inspect for damage, report where repair is needed, and consult for total vehicle safety. You also assist with preventative maintenance, oil changes, and system checks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Vehicle Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vehicle Inspector, you need a solid understanding of automotive systems, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, sometimes supplemented by relevant certifications. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, inspection checklists, and vehicle emissions or safety testing equipment is commonly required. Strong observational skills, integrity, and effective communication help inspectors interact with customers and report findings accurately. These abilities ensure vehicles meet safety and regulatory standards, protecting both drivers and the public.

What are some common challenges faced by vehicle inspectors during inspections, and how can they be managed?

Vehicle inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, identifying subtle or hidden defects, and keeping up with evolving safety regulations. Managing these challenges involves staying current with industry training, using specialized diagnostic tools, and maintaining strong attention to detail. Effective communication with vehicle owners and other team members is also essential for addressing issues found during inspections and ensuring all standards are met.

What are vehicle inspectors?

Vehicle inspectors are professionals responsible for examining cars, trucks, and other vehicles to ensure they meet safety and emissions standards. They check various components such as brakes, lights, tires, and structural integrity, looking for defects or issues that could affect the vehicle’s performance or safety. Vehicle inspectors may work at government agencies, inspection stations, or automotive repair shops, and their evaluations help maintain road safety and environmental compliance.

What is the difference between Vehicle Inspector vs Vehicle Technician?

AspectVehicle InspectorVehicle Technician
CertificationsVehicle inspection certifications, DMV or state-specific licensesASE certifications, automotive repair licenses
Work EnvironmentInspection stations, government agencies, vehicle testing facilitiesAuto repair shops, dealerships, service centers
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, vehicle inspection companiesPrivate auto repair shops, dealerships, fleet services

Vehicle Inspectors primarily focus on assessing vehicle safety and compliance through inspections, often working for government agencies or inspection companies. Vehicle Technicians diagnose and repair vehicle issues in repair shops or dealerships. While both roles require automotive knowledge and certifications, Vehicle Inspectors concentrate on inspection standards, whereas Vehicle Technicians perform repairs and maintenance.

More about Vehicle Inspector jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Vehicle Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Vehicle Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Vehicle Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? For Vehicle Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Vehicle Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Vehicle Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Vehicle Inspector jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Vehicle Inspector job openings:
Vehicle Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vehicle Inspector job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,661 per year, or $20 per hour.
Vehicle Inspector

Vehicle Inspector

OPENLANE

Merrillville, IN

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Contractor

Posted 14 days ago

Openlane rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 16 rated auctioneers

Job description

Hiring a 1099 Independent Contractor Immediately! Flexible work environment. Set your own hours, work with minimal guidance, be your own boss!

OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor will provide vehicle inspection services at car dealerships. The Independent Contractor must have a minimum of 5 years of automotive experience as a vehicle mechanic or equivalent mechanical background. Required:

A working iPhone with a data plan,(We do not currently support Android devices to perform inspections) a basic OBD II scanner, reliable transportation, and valid driver's license.

Some of the perks include:

  • Make good money in an exciting field

  • Be your own boss and set your own hours

  • Flexible work environment

  • Ability to work with minimal guidance and supervision

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