Pre-Purchase Inspections in Tyne and Wear

A used car can look spotless and still hide worn components, poor repairs or developing faults. A seller's description and a short test drive will only tell you so much.

At Banks of the Tyne in Hebburn we carry out pre-purchase inspections for buyers across Tyne and Wear. The idea is simple: we look at the car as an independent mechanic, then tell you what we found, so you can decide, negotiate or walk away.

What a pre-purchase inspection covers

We work through the car methodically, with the vehicle raised where possible. That includes the engine bay, fluid condition, visible leaks, brakes, tyres, steering and suspension, the exhaust, the underside, bodywork and signs of previous repairs, the interior electrics and any warning lights.

We also carry out a road test where practical, to listen for gearbox, clutch, steering and suspension issues that only appear in motion. If a fault code or warning light is present we can look at it as part of fault finding.

• Underside, corrosion and leaks
• Brakes, tyres and wheel condition
• Steering and suspension wear
• Engine, gearbox and clutch behaviour
• Panel fit, paint and previous repair signs
• Electrics, lights and warning lights

What it can and cannot tell you

An inspection shows the condition on the day. It can reveal worn parts, signs of poor accident repair and faults in progress. It cannot tell you the car's whole history, whether it is stolen, or whether finance is outstanding. Check the history and paperwork separately through the proper channels.

Some faults are intermittent and will not show during an inspection. We tell you what we could and could not check, so the report is honest about its limits.

What affects the outcome

Access matters. A seller who lets us see the car properly, with a ramp and a road test, gives us far more to work with than a quick look on a driveway. Age and mileage affect what we expect to find, and a well-used older car is not necessarily a bad buy if it is priced for its condition.

The findings are useful in two ways. They can show you what to budget for after purchase, and they can support a conversation with the seller about price. Whether to proceed is always your decision.

How to arrange one and what to bring

Speak to us before you commit, and check the seller is happy for the car to be inspected. A genuine seller usually is. Tell us the make, model, year and where the car is, and ask us about the practical arrangements.

If there is anything you are worried about, say so. Walking away from a poor car is a good outcome, even if it feels like a disappointment at the time.