Mobile checks before you buy a car or van
Buying a used vehicle can be a big financial decision. We can attend the vehicle on-site and carry out a structured inspection covering condition, mechanical systems, diagnostics and a road test where circumstances allow.
A practical inspection of the vehicle you are considering
The exact scope depends on the vehicle, access and inspection package agreed, but our aim is to identify visible defects, warning signs and areas that may justify further investigation before you commit to the purchase.
Exterior condition
Body panels, paint consistency, visible repairs, corrosion, panel gaps, glass, lamps, mirrors, tyres and obvious signs of previous damage or poor repair.
Mechanical inspection
Visible leaks, fluid condition where accessible, belts and hoses, abnormal noises, engine operation, clutch/gearbox behaviour, driveshafts and accessible components.
Brakes, steering & suspension
Visible brake condition, tyres, wheel condition, suspension components, steering behaviour, obvious play/noise and general road-holding concerns.
Diagnostic system scan
We scan accessible vehicle control modules for stored, pending or active faults and interpret relevant findings rather than relying only on dashboard warning lights.
Interior & equipment
Dashboard warnings, major controls, heating/air-conditioning operation, windows, mirrors, infotainment and other accessible equipment are checked for obvious faults.
Road test where possible
Where the vehicle is insured, legal, safe and the seller permits it, we assess starting, acceleration, gearbox behaviour, braking, steering, suspension noises and general drivability.
Findings you can use before making a decision
Clear inspection findings
We explain the significant defects and concerns found during the inspection, including faults that may affect safety, reliability or likely repair costs.
- Visible condition concerns
- Relevant diagnostic trouble codes
- Road-test observations where completed
- Recommended next steps or further testing
A realistic view of limitations
A mobile pre-purchase inspection is non-destructive. We cannot guarantee hidden internal condition or predict every future failure. Items that require dismantling, specialist measuring equipment or workshop facilities are outside the normal inspection unless specifically agreed.
- No dismantling unless agreed
- No guarantee against future faults
- History/finance checks are separate unless agreed
- Access and road testing depend on seller/site permission
Private buyers, dealers and trade customers
We can inspect vehicles at homes, dealerships, trade premises and other suitable locations. If you are buying remotely, the inspection can give you an independent technical view before you travel or transfer funds.
Private buyers
Get an independent set of eyes on a vehicle before purchase, particularly where you are not confident assessing mechanical condition yourself.
Remote purchases
Useful when a vehicle is some distance away and you want a condition assessment before deciding whether it is worth travelling to see.
Trade & fleet
Pre-stock, acquisition or vehicle-condition checks can support dealers, fleets and other automotive businesses making buying decisions.
Buying a vehicle?
Send us the registration, seller location and preferred inspection date. We will confirm the scope, price and available attendance window before the booking is confirmed.