Independent vehicle inspections are checks that are carried out on second hand cars. As the inspection is carried out by an independent firm separate from the rest of the car industry you are assured that the mechanics inspecting it will not have an ulterior motive.
Why have a car checked?
If you’ve seen a car on sale which appears to be a good deal your natural instinct is to buy it straight away. Unless you are an experienced mechanic it is difficult to spot revealing signs of wear and damage on a car.
When you arrange for an independent inspection on a car an impartial mechanic will check the entire car for any faults. The mechanic will compile a report with any problems clearly identified and send it to you within a few days of the inspection. Some companies may allow you to speak to the mechanic in person who carried out the inspection and ask questions.
After reading the review you can discuss any faults with the owner. If there are any faults with the car you can come to an arrangement of either a reduction in price or for the owner to have the faults repaired.
Arranging an inspection
There is a choice of companies that will perform private checks on a car for you in Britain. Vehicle inspection companies tend to advertise in trade publications and car magazines. You may find access to more companies by browsing through forums and blogs online.
Some companies will check a car the same day you book the inspection whereas some may require up to three days notice. Make sure to ask just what kind of report you will get as services vary between companies.
As well as offering a review of any faults found some companies may also offer further services. These can include a short term warranty to cover any parts that don’t last after the inspection. A status check may also be included to find out if the car is declared as stolen or if any outstanding credit payments are due.
It’s important to remember that a vehicle inspection isn’t the same as a status inspection. A vehicle inspection reviews how roadworthy the vehicle is whereas a status check involves running the car’s details through various databases to track its history. The vehicle inspection focuses on the bodywork and mechanics of the car identifying any irregular repairs.