A used car can look perfect on the forecourt and still hide expensive problems. An independent inspection gives you facts before you hand over the money, and it often gives you a reason to negotiate the price.

Why a test drive isn't enough

A short test drive on smooth roads hides most faults. Warning lights can be cleared that morning, noises disappear once the engine is warm, and accident repairs are designed to look invisible.

What we check on the body

• Paint thickness and colour differences that reveal repaired panels

• Uneven gaps between doors, the hood and the trunk lid

• Signs of rust on the sills, arches and underbody

• Water marks or damp carpets that suggest leaks or flood damage

Under the hood

We look for oil and coolant leaks, worn belts and hoses, a tired battery and any signs of overheating. A cold start tells us a lot, which is why we ask that the car isn't started before we arrive.

The diagnostic scan

We scan every module, not just the engine. We also check readiness monitors, which show whether fault codes were recently cleared. A car with freshly reset monitors is a red flag worth asking about.

Underneath the car

• Suspension bushes, shocks and springs

• Brake pads, discs and lines

• Exhaust condition and mounting

• Drive shafts, CV boots and steering components

On the road

1. Gearbox changes, smoothness and any slipping

2. Brakes pulling or vibrating

3. Steering play, wandering or knocking

4. Noises from the engine, wheels or suspension at speed

Paperwork worth checking

Ask for the service history, receipts for major work and the number of previous owners. Mileage that doesn't match the wear on the pedals, seats and steering wheel is worth questioning.

What you get from us

You receive a written report with photos, a clear summary of anything that needs attention, and rough repair costs. Many buyers use it to negotiate a lower price, or to walk away from a car that would have cost them far more.