Pre-purchase inspection
An independent check of a used car before you hand over the money.
Fixed price £99 · About 1.5 hours
- Fixed pricesKnow the cost before you book
- Vetted mechanicsQualified, insured and checked
- 12-month guaranteeOn parts and labour
- Pay afterCard held, charged when you approve
About this job
Buying second-hand? A mechanic meets you or the seller and checks the car inside and out: bodywork, engine, gearbox, brakes, suspension, tyres, electrics and a road test where possible. You get a photo report the same day so you can negotiate, or walk away.
Signs you might need it
- You're buying privately or from a small dealer
- The car is far from home
- You want negotiating power
What's included
- Over 130 checks
- Fault code scan
- Road test where possible
- Photo report the same day
- Advice on likely upcoming costs
Plus travel, disposal of old parts and a 12-month guarantee.
Typical prices by car size
| Small car (e.g. city car, supermini) | £99 |
| Medium car (e.g. family hatchback, saloon) | £99 |
| Large car / SUV / MPV | £99 |
| Premium or performance car | £99 |
| Small van / pickup | £99 |
Prices shown are starter estimates and are being finalised. The price on your quote is the price you pay.
Pre-purchase inspection prices for popular cars
- Audi A1 · £99
- Audi A3 · £99
- Audi A4 · £99
- Audi Q5 · £99
- BMW 1 Series · £99
- BMW 3 Series · £99
- BMW X3 · £99
- Citroen C3 · £99
- Citroen C4 · £99
- Fiat 500 · £99
- Fiat Panda · £99
- Ford Fiesta · £99
- Ford Focus · £99
- Ford Kuga · £99
- Ford Puma · £99
- Ford Transit Custom · £99
- Honda Civic · £99
- Honda CR-V · £99
- Honda Jazz · £99
- Hyundai i10 · £99
- Hyundai i30 · £99
- Hyundai Tucson · £99
- Kia Ceed · £99
- Kia Picanto · £99
Questions about pre-purchase inspection
How long does pre-purchase inspection take?
Usually about 1.5 hours. Your mechanic will tell you if your car needs longer.
Can it be done at my home?
In most cases, yes. Mobile mechanics need a safe, level place to park, such as a driveway or quiet street. If your job needs a workshop we'll let you know before you pay anything.
Is the price fixed?
Yes. The price on your quote is what you pay. If the mechanic finds something else, they'll explain it and give you a separate price – nothing extra is done without your OK.
Is the work guaranteed?
Yes – parts and labour are covered for 12 months. See our guarantee page for the details.