Will a PPI detect broken head studs?
 

Just wondering if a PPI will detect broken head studs and if there is a valve job needed?

I'd have the mechanic pull the valve covers and check the studs. A compression check and/or leak down could reveal possible valve issues, but there are other things, such as carbon buildup, which could skew the results.

-B

When I bought my car last year I talked with 5-6 different dealers or mechanics. MOST PPIs are visual only. If you want to know if you need a valve job or have head stud problems, you'll have to pay extra for a leakdown test. Ask what the PPI covers and what the cost is to have a leakdown done at the same time (IMO its well worth it).

Just make sure to specify that you want compression and leakdown tests, and inspection of the head studs (requires removal of the valve covers). The going rate here is $150-175.
-dtw

I would ask a shop to provide a sort of "checklist" that you could expect to see. Or at least a breakdown of what they check and costs associated with the "extra" items you would want inspected.