Buying a used car can be quite intimidating. From finding the right car to getting the right prices, a lot goes behind purchasing a used car. When buying from a seller, private or dealer, you must either have some technical experience to understand the vehicle or hire someone to do that for you. It is crucial that before buying any used car, one should inspect it comprehensively. This is why pre-purchase inspection comes into play.
In this article, we will discuss how to inspect a used car and the importance of a hassle-free used car buying experience.
Table of contents
- 1 What is a pre-purchase car inspection?
- 2 What is included in the pre-purchase car inspection report?
- 3 Three types of car inspection services:
- 4 How to book a pre-purchase car inspection from click mechanic?
- 5 How much does a pre-purchase car inspection cost in the UK?
- 6 What is the difference between pre-purchase car inspection and car history check?
What is a pre-purchase car inspection?
Pre-purchase inspections are conducted by a professional mechanic who introspects the entire vehicle for its condition. The mechanic will take a deeper look into every detail of the car, ensuring that it is in top condition. Below given is the checklist that is employed by the mechanic to inspect a used car:
Used car inspection checklist:
- Engine leaks
- Engine oil
- Head gasket
- Exhaust smoke colours
- Gearbox and clutch checks
- Signs of replacing panels
- Dents on the door
- Panel gap checks
- Leaks on the door seal
- Rust checks
- Car sills and wheel arches checks
- Wheels and tyres checks
- Interior checks
- Check the warning lights
- Confirm car’s mileage
- Checks the electronic part of the car
- Check the car’s documentation
What is included in the pre-purchase car inspection report?
The pre-purchase car inspection report will cover all the vital points that were checked by the mechanic while conducting the inspection. It will reveal if the car’s past and also if it is fit to ride. There are over 26 sections in the report that will tell you vital information on whether to buy the vehicle or not.
The Auto Experts have collaborated with Click Mechanic, one of the pioneers providing the best-in-class online car inspection and repair services in the UK.
Three types of car inspection services:
1. Basic pre-purchase car inspection
Here only the basic check on the interior and exterior of the car is conducted followed by a road test. The report is then emailed to you for future reference.
2. Standard pre-purchase car inspection
This type of pre-purchase car inspection involves 105 points of mechanical and visual structural inspection followed by a road test and bodywork inspection. The report is then emailed to you for future reference. The standard level of inspection also offers phone consultation with the mechanic for free.
3. Advanced pre-purchase car inspection
This type of pre-purchase car inspection involves 143 points of mechanical and visual structural inspection followed by a road test, complete interior, bodywork and paint inspection. A comprehensive report with photos is then emailed to you for future reference. The advanced level of inspection also offers phone consultation with the mechanic for free.
How to book a pre-purchase car inspection from click mechanic?
1. Give them your vehicle details.
With Click Mechanic, you can book your pre-purchase car inspection online. All you have to do is enter your registration and postcode so their team will understand the car’s location.
2. Choose a suitable date and time.
Pick any date or time that is convenient to you. So, that their team can inspect without affecting your daily busy routine.
3. Get the inspection done.
With this, you have done your part. Now allow their team to inspect while you sit back and unwind. After the inspection, the report will be mailed to you.
How much does a pre-purchase car inspection cost in the UK?
The pre-purchase car inspection cost at Click Mechanic varied with the type of inspection chosen. The standard level car inspection starts from £53.68, the standard level starts from £80.00 and lastly, the advanced level starts from £125.00.
What is the difference between pre-purchase car inspection and car history check?
The pre-purchase car inspection probes the physical health of the vehicle such as the engine, suspension, gearbox, clutch, bodywork, road test, etc. Whereas the car history checks involve revealing the past of the car for instance the MOT status, mileage, outstanding finance, write-off, stolen check, etc. Although both are different when it comes to used car purchasing, both play a vital role.
Similarly, dealing with car wreckers is another crucial aspect in the lifecycle of used vehicles. Car wreckers specialize in dismantling vehicles that are no longer roadworthy, recycling usable parts and materials. When purchasing a used car, understanding the role of car wreckers can be essential, especially in assessing the availability of spare parts or uncovering the vehicle’s end-of-life history, which might not be evident from standard history checks or inspections.
Conclusion
The external appearance of a car can be deceiving. Only an experienced eye can determine the vehicle’s true fitness. Getting a pre-purchase car inspection helps the buyer know whether the car he/she is about to buy is worth the investment or not. With ClickMechanic, one can easily book their pre-purchase car inspection online.
