Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection: What To Look For

Written by Danny Collins
Last updated: December 15, 2022

When purchasing a used car, it is important to have a pre-purchase vehicle inspection done. This will help you to identify any potential problems with the car before you buy it. In this blog post, we will discuss what to look for during a pre-purchase inspection. We will also provide tips on how to get the best deal on a used car.

Why Should You Do Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspections?

There are a few reasons why you should do pre-purchase vehicle inspections when buying a used car. First of all, an inspection can help you to identify any potential problems with the car. This is important because it allows you to negotiate a lower price or get the seller to fix the problems before you buy the car. Secondly, an inspection can give you peace of mind. Once you have the inspection report, you will know that the car is in good condition and that there are no hidden problems. Finally, an inspection can save you money in the long run. By identifying problems early on, you can avoid costly repairs down the road.

What Are The Benefits of Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection?

The benefits of pre-purchase vehicle inspection are many:

A pre-purchase vehicle inspection is a comprehensive examination of the used car you are considering purchasing.
You’ll save money on your transportation costs, and it will provide other benefits as well.
Before acquiring a used car, it is critical to inspect it to see whether it has any major underlying problems.
It aids in the identification of engine and internal components that may not be seen during a test drive.
A pre-purchase inspection will let you know whether the vehicle you’re buying is worth the price, as well as ensure your safety.

What to Look for During a Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection

  • Tyres Check: The condition of the tyres is very important, as it can affect the car’s handling and braking. The technician will check for signs of wear, damage, and inflation levels.
  • Operation of the air-conditioning and braking systems: The technician will test these systems to make sure that they are working properly.
  • Check of the engine oil, air filters and battery: The technician will check the levels of these fluids and make sure that they are clean.
  • Coolant levels and their condition: The coolant levels will be checked, and the technician will also look for signs of leaks.
  • Brake pedals inspection: Brake pedals should be firm and responsive.
  • Transmission fluid condition: The condition of the transmission fluid will be checked, and it should be free of debris and contaminants.
  • Thorough inspections of the exterior lights as well as the brake lights, headlights and tail lights: These lights should be in good condition and properly aligned.
  •  Seat belts and steering wheels check: Seat belts are an important safety feature, and they should be in good condition. The steering wheel should also be checked for any signs of wear.
  • Examine the wiper blades for any leaks and check for any signs of oil seepage.
  • Inspection of minor scratches on the vehicle’s outside bodywork

The amount of time it takes to complete a car safety inspection varies from inspection to inspection and is dependent on the type of vehicle safety check you do. A used car safety inspection typically takes about an hour to complete but can take longer if the vehicle is older or has more mileage.

How Much Does a Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection Cost?

The cost of a pre-purchase vehicle inspection will vary, depending on the location where you have it done and the type of inspection that is performed. Click mechanic is one of the most reputable vehicle inspection companies, and they provide inspections that are divided into three categories:

  • Basic Service – It includes a road test, an inspection report, and modest inspections of the interior, such as checking the electric controls, engine compartment, and tyres.
  • Standard Service – It includes a road test, bodywork inspections, inspection reports, free phone consultations, and checks on the structural areas. (brake pads, fluid engine level and density and electric controls)
  • Premium Service – An emailed report with pictures of the inspected sections, a road test, interior, bodywork and paint inspections, as well as a structural analysis are included.

Can I Do Vehicle Inspection By Myself?

You could do a DIY Car Inspection by yourself, but we would not recommend it. A trained technician will know what to look for and can spot problems that you may not be able to see. They will also have the proper tools to check the car’s fluids and components.
But if you have to do it yourself, this list will help you get started.

  • Wiper blades must be replaced.
  • Flush PCV valve
  • Replacement of the engine air filter
  • Replacement of non-headlight bulbs
  • Changing the air filter in the cabin
  • Fluid Change in Power Steering
  • Car washing & Body Polishing
  • Replace the spark plugs 
  • Refilling the gas in the air conditioner
  • Determine whether any fuses have blown and replaced them

What Type of Report Would You Receive From The Inspection?

After the inspection is complete, you will receive a letter in the mail from the click mechanic. The report will include information on the vehicle’s engine, transmission, brakes, tyres, and other major components. If you would rather have a hard copy of the report, you may print it out. You may also acquire the report by logging in to your click mechanic account.

Does a vehicle inspection include a vehicle history report?

No, a vehicle inspection does not include a vehicle history report. A vehicle history report is a separate service. The vehicle inspection services will focus only on physical inspections; you cannot expect a vehicle history such as the financial status of the vehicle, stolen, or written-off status of the car. For this purpose, it’s better for you to run a free car check before your purchase. Reg Car Check gives you instant access to a full vehicle history so you can make an informed decision on any car in the UK.

Related posts

Risks When Buying a Low Price Used Car

Which Is Better: Buying A Diesel Or Petrol Used Car?

The Best Used Car Apps In The UK

A Complete Guide To Used Car Warranties

Common Faults When Buying Used Cars and How To Avoid Them

All You Need To Know About Used Car Scams