What does a pre-purchase inspection check?
The aim is to help you see the car as it is, not as it is described. A typical inspection covers several areas.
- Engine and gearbox: leaks, noises, how they run and shift.
- Brakes, tyres and suspension: wear, play and condition.
- Electrical systems and warning lights.
- Stored fault codes from the car's control units.
- Aircon operation and signs of past repairs or accident damage.
The depth of each check depends on the car and what can be safely inspected.
How does the inspection process work?
- You send us the car's make, model, year and where it is located.
- We agree a time to inspect the car, with the seller's consent.
- We carry out the inspection and read the fault codes.
- We explain our findings in plain words, noting what is minor and what is a concern.
- You decide whether to buy, negotiate or walk away.
Our guide on buying a used car with confidence gives more background.
What is different about a hybrid or EV inspection?
A hybrid or EV carries a high-voltage battery and related systems, and these can be a large part of the car's value. In addition to the standard checks, we look at the battery's state of health where the car allows it, and at the cooling arrangement and any stored high-voltage related codes.
See our hybrid and EV servicing page for more on battery checks.
What problems can an inspection find?
| What may turn up | Why it matters | What we do |
|---|---|---|
| Stored fault codes | May point to current or past faults | Read, record and explain them |
| Oil or coolant leaks | Can lead to larger repairs | Inspect and note the source if visible |
| Uneven panel gaps or paint | May suggest past bodywork | Point out and describe |
| Worn brakes or suspension | Affects safety and near-term cost | Assess wear and urgency |
| Rough shifting | Could mean gearbox concerns | Test and report |
An inspection reports condition at the time of checking. It cannot predict every future fault.
Is an inspection worth it for a car that looks clean?
A clean car can still hide worn parts or stored faults. An inspection gives you facts you can use, whether to ask for a repair, adjust your offer or look at another car.
Many European cars have costly components, so it helps to know the condition before you commit. A separate set of eyes can also help when you feel unsure about a seller's description.
If the seller will not allow an inspection, that is worth noting in itself. Take your time, and do not feel pressed to decide on the spot.
Where do you carry out the inspection?
Our workshop is at 143 Bukit Timah Road, Newton Circus, inside the Shell station. Please message us through the contact page with the car's details so we can explain how to arrange the inspection.
Questions owners ask
How much is a pre-purchase inspection?
We do not state a price on this page, as it depends on the car and the type of inspection. Message us with the make, model and year, and we will advise you on the arrangement.
Do you offer a hybrid or EV pre-purchase inspection?
Yes, there is a standard inspection and a hybrid or EV inspection that includes high-voltage battery checks. Tell us which car you are considering so we can advise what the inspection will cover.
Will you tell me whether to buy the car?
We report what we find and explain how serious each point is. The decision to buy, negotiate or walk away stays with you, and our findings give you the facts to make it.
Does the inspection cover every possible fault?
No. It reports the condition at the time of inspection based on what can be checked safely. Some faults appear only after longer use, so we explain the limits of the findings as well.