Buying a used car is one of the most significant purchases most people make, and the used market is unfortunately not without risk. At Brookes Auto Repair, we offer pre-purchase inspections for buyers who want independent, professional assurance before committing to a vehicle. We also want to share the basic checks that every buyer should carry out themselves before handing over any money.
Check for Rust
Examine the sills, wheel arches, floor, and underside carefully for corrosion. Surface rust on brake discs and exhaust components is normal on a used car, but structural rust — particularly on the sills, subframe, or floor — is a significant problem. In severe cases it can render a vehicle unroadworthy and uneconomical to repair.
Inspect All Fluids
Check the engine oil on the dipstick — it should be amber to dark brown in colour and at the correct level. Milky or grey oil can indicate a head gasket failure. Check the coolant level and colour in the expansion tank. Look under the car for any signs of leaks on the ground where it has been parked.
Start the Engine Cold
Insist on viewing the car when the engine is cold and has not been recently started. A cold start reveals whether the engine turns over easily, whether it produces smoke on start-up, and whether any unusual noises are present. A vendor who insists the car is already warmed up before you arrive may be concealing a cold-start problem.
Test All Electronics
Check every switch, button, and control in the car — windows, mirrors, heating, air conditioning, lights, central locking, and any infotainment features. Electrical repairs on modern vehicles can be disproportionately expensive relative to the value of the car.
Get a Professional Inspection
If you are serious about a vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is one of the best investments you can make. At Brookes Auto Repair, we carry out thorough pre-purchase checks and provide a written report of our findings. Book at brookesautorepair.com.
