I'm looking to buy a used White 1996 Honda Civic Sedan in the Bay Area and I've been told and read that I need to get the car inspected by a mechanic before I buy it. I know that the Scan-Gauge II is OBD-II compatible and can read error codes and reset them but I was also wondering if I don't really need much more than that to diagnose whether the car is "sound" (yes I'm aware that it's only for a few variables). I have some experience with cars but not enough and I know I can't get a good inspection of the car to see if it's been in an accident which is why I'm thinking I should take it to a mechanic.

Any suggestions? (This will be my first Civic)

 

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