What is a vehicle inspection and why is it important?

While thousands of people buy used cars each year, not everyone knows what to look out for on a second-hand vehicle. How cars sound, the location of the major components and the proper feel of the controls are all aspects which could bypass the average driver.

So if you’re considering the purchase of a used car, you may want to get the professionals involved to check it over and seek out any potential issues.

That’s where a vehicle inspection can come into play. As well as a vehicle history check, it can give you a quick-fire list of any potential issues so that you can make a purchase safe in the knowledge that you’re as clued-up about the car as can be. But what is a vehicle inspection and should you consider having one done before you buy?

What is a vehicle inspection?

A vehicle inspection involves a qualified engineer taking a look at a car in detail. They’ll be able to tell whether or not a car is structurally sound, whether or not any components are on their way out or if there are areas of rust which could prove problematic.

The engineer will also be able to flag up any work which might need to be completed so that a prospective buyer can factor this into their purchase decision. You’ll need to get approval from the seller before conducting a vehicle inspection, too.

Why is a vehicle inspection important?

Though a vehicle inspection isn’t something which is required by law, it’s a service which is highly recommended.

If a seller isn’t being particularly honest about a car’s condition - or any past products - when the vehicle is listed, then an inspection can flag these up before you part with any cash. Plus, because an engineer is impartial, they’ll be able to provide clear and concise answers to any potential concerns - something which you may not get from a private seller.

An inspection also ensures that you’re able to negotiate the best-possible price for a vehicle by giving you all of the information you need. It also means that you won’t be hit by any nasty surprises once you’ve purchased the vehicle.

The AA Vehicle Inspection service

Available across the UK, Monday to Friday, the AA’s own Vehicle Inspection service gives buyers all of the information they need about a prospective used vehicle.

Available from £142 for a basic inspection, you’ll get a car’s mechanics, other vehicle operations and bodywork checked over by a trained engineer. The inspection also includes electrical and equipment checks alongside a 5-mile test drive. You’ll then get a multi-page report of everything that was discovered as well as a verbal report. It’s all available for cars of up to 10 years old.

If you want some extra information, then a more detailed comprehensive inspection is available for £191. It covers cars of all ages and adds in extra mechanical and physical checks alongside a longer test drive.

With car, van, motorhome and 4-wheel drive inspections available, we can provide all of the information you need for a vehicle.

Assessments take between 1 and 2-and-half hours to complete and there’s no need to be present at the inspection. As before, remember that you’ll need to have the seller’s permission before you book in an inspection - don’t organise one without an agreement in place.

AA Members save 10% on vehicle inspections. Book an inspection online, or call our Vehicle Inspections team on 0330 053 0340 Monday-Sunday 8am-8pm to arrange an appointment.