Buying a used car privately or from a dealer is one of the biggest purchases most people make. A pre-purchase inspection, sometimes called a pre-buy check, is an independent mechanical inspection carried out before you hand over your money.
What does a pre-purchase inspection include
At Steins Garage our pre-purchase inspection covers: full visual inspection of engine, gearbox and drivetrain for leaks, wear or damage; brake inspection including disc condition and pad thickness measurement; tyre tread depth and condition check on all four tyres; suspension, steering and wheel bearing inspection; exhaust system condition check; full diagnostic scan for fault codes stored in the engine management system; bodywork inspection for signs of accident repair or corrosion; lights, wipers, horn and all ancillary electrics; and a written report with all findings in plain language.
What it does not cover
A pre-purchase inspection is a visual and diagnostic check, not a full strip-down. We cannot verify internal engine condition without dismantling the engine. It does not include verifying a vehicle finance status, ownership history or mileage accuracy. For those checks, use a dedicated vehicle history check service.
When is it worth getting one
Almost always, for a private purchase. The inspection costs £99 + VAT at Steins Garage. That is a small fraction of the cost of an unexpected gearbox, engine or suspension repair on a car you have just bought. We have seen inspection reports where the findings revealed repair costs several times higher than the asking price of the car.
Even when buying from a dealer, an independent inspection gives you an objective view. Dealers have a vested interest in selling the car. An independent garage has no such interest.
How does it work
The seller must agree to bring the car to our garage or allow us to inspect it at a location we can access. Most private sellers will agree, particularly if the car is genuinely in good condition. A seller who refuses an independent inspection entirely is a significant warning sign.
To book a pre-purchase inspection, call us on 0131 554 3423 or contact us here. We aim to turn these around quickly so we do not hold up your purchase.