What is a vehicle inspection?
What is a vehicle inspection?
A vehicle inspection is an essential part of buying a used car, especially if you don’t know what you should be looking out for.
Ideally, a professional should come and inspect the vehicle you’re looking to buy, to provide you with expert peace of mind before you commit to a large purchase.
What's checked in a vehicle inspection?
There are an extensive range of parts of the car checked in a vehicle inspection, including:
-Bodywork
-Engine Compartment
-Electricals
-Interior/Luggage Compartment
-Front Suspension, Steering & Underframe
-Rear Suspension/Underframe
-Clutch/Transmission
-Exhaust System
-Fuel System
-Brakes
-Wheels & Tyres
-Road Test
-Leaks
Do you get a report?
This depends on where and who you get your vehicle inspection carried out with, but the majority of the time you should have a detailed report given to you within 24 hours of the inspection. It’s advisable to check the pricing to see what’s included. You can then use this report to show the seller to ask if they can fix any defaults or reduce the price.
Do I have to be there during the vehicle inspection?
Again, this depends on the business you have your car inspected by. A lot of the time, they don’t require you to be present, so you can have the inspection done while you’re at home or work. However, sometimes they do request the seller to be present to give the go ahead on the inspection.
Do vehicle inspections expire?
A vehicle inspection report can be valid for the entire lifespan of the car, but it’s recommended to have one done every 1-2 years, depending on the age, condition and type of vehicle.
How long does a vehicle inspection take?
How long your car inspection takes can vary depending on the type of car you have and its condition. Typically, if you’re having a basic inspection, it takes between approximately 1-2 hours, but if you’re having a more comprehensive check, it can take anywhere between 3 and 4 hours.
How much does a vehicle inspection cost?
Prices differ relative to which type of inspection you have done. They can range from anything between £100 for a basic inspection to upwards of £200 for a more detailed one.
Where can I get a vehicle inspection?
Companies such as the RAC and AA provide vehicle inspections, however you also find independent garages offering them too, as well as franchised car dealerships.
Do I need to bring anything for a vehicle inspection?
You don’t need to bring anything to your vehicle inspection as such, instead you should prepare the following beforehand:
Make sure to get in touch with the seller and ask if the car:
Has a current MOT certificate (if applicable)
Has sufficient oil, water, and fuel for the road test
Is located off-road on a hard, level surface.
Is relatively clean
You’ll then likely also need the following to book online:
The vehicle registration number
Authorisation from the seller
The location where the car is kept