Inspections

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist: 42 Things We Check Before You Pay

Every car we source gets a 42-point inspection before you send a euro. Here's the full checklist, why each item matters, and what you get in your report.

Exterior (12 points)

  1. Paint depth readings on all panels (paint meter). Detects respray, accident repair
  2. Panel gap consistency. Uneven gaps signal collision repair
  3. Windshield date code. Confirms original or replacement
  4. Headlight condition, matching age, no fogging
  5. Taillight condition, no cracks, matching age
  6. Wheel condition, all four (curb rash, refurbishment marks)
  7. Tyre brand match, tread depth, date codes (no old rubber)
  8. Brake disc wear, matching wear across axle
  9. Exhaust tip condition, no soot, no evidence of oil burn
  10. Under-car inspection. Rust, damage, aftermarket parts
  11. Bumper alignment, front and rear
  12. PPF condition and coverage (or lack of it)

Interior (8 points)

  1. Odometer verification against service history
  2. Seat wear versus claimed mileage
  3. Steering wheel wear, gear knob, pedals
  4. Headliner sag, water stains
  5. All electronics functional (windows, seats, climate, infotainment)
  6. Cabin smell. Smoke, mould, pet damage
  7. Dashboard cracks (common in heat)
  8. All keys present and working

Mechanical (14 points)

  1. Cold start behaviour. Starter, idle quality
  2. Warm start behaviour
  3. Coolant condition and level
  4. Oil condition and level, no milkshake, no burnt smell
  5. Transmission fluid (where accessible)
  6. Brake fluid clarity
  7. Power steering fluid
  8. Belt condition (serpentine, timing where visible)
  9. Hose condition. Soft spots, cracks
  10. Battery age and health test
  11. Compression test (on request, extra fee)
  12. Test drive: acceleration, braking, steering, transmission
  13. Test drive: no warning lights, no unusual noises
  14. Cold-side manifold check for exhaust leaks

Diagnostics & History (8 points)

  1. OBD scan, all modules. Active and historic fault codes
  2. Airbag module. Deployment history
  3. ECU tuning check (untuned unless disclosed)
  4. Adaptation values in normal range
  5. VIN check against government registry
  6. Service history verification (dealer or reputable independent)
  7. Accident history check via VIN databases
  8. Outstanding finance / lien check

What you get

  • Full written report (PDF), 15-25 pages depending on car complexity
  • 60-120 high-resolution photos
  • 2-5 minute video walk-around
  • OBD scan report (raw data + interpretation)
  • Paint meter readings mapped to each panel
  • Buy / negotiate / walk-away recommendation from our lead inspector

Standalone inspections in the UAE start at €450. Included free when we source the car for you. See all services or book one now.

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