Scope of Inspection
Our Used Car Inspection at a Glance
Depending on the vehicle and the facilities available at the inspection location, our independent used car inspection includes the following checks:
- Vehicle identification and documents
- Paint thickness measurement
- Tyres and wheels
- Bodywork
- Windows and windscreen
- Interior and equipment
- Boot
- Engine compartment
- OBD diagnostics and fault memory
- Underbody inspection on a vehicle lift*
- Test drive*
- Market analysis and purchase recommendation
* Subject to the required facilities and conditions being available at the inspection location.
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Vehicle Identification & Documents
At the beginning of the used car inspection, the vehicle’s identity and the available documents are carefully checked. We compare the vehicle identification number (VIN) with the registration documents and assess whether the recorded mileage is plausible. We also inspect the vehicle registration certificate, service history, available maintenance and repair records, and the number of vehicle keys supplied. This initial stage can already reveal missing documents or inconsistencies that may affect the vehicle’s value and your purchasing decision..
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Paint Thickness Measurement
Using a calibrated paint thickness gauge, the paint thickness is measured on all relevant body panels. This helps identify repainting, areas containing body filler, and indications of previous repairs or accident damage. Variations in the readings may indicate repaired sections of the vehicle. Paint thickness measurement is therefore an important part of the used car inspection and provides valuable information about the vehicle’s history that often remains undetected during a visual inspection alone.
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Tires & Wheels
The tyres are the vehicle’s only point of contact with the road and therefore have a decisive influence on safety and handling. We inspect the tread depth, general condition and tyre age based on the DOT date code. We also check the tyres for uneven wear, damage and possible indications of suspension or axle problems. The wheels are inspected for kerb damage, deformation and other defects. The findings provide useful information about the vehicle’s overall condition and potential follow-up costs.
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Bodywork
The bodywork is carefully inspected for dents, scratches, corrosion, stone chips and other damage. We also check panel gaps, attached body components and the overall alignment of the bodywork to identify possible indications of previous accident damage or repairs. A professional visual inspection of the bodywork provides important information about the vehicle’s condition and may reveal previous damage or repairs that could significantly affect its value and your purchasing decision.
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Windows & Windscreen
All vehicle windows are carefully inspected for stone chips, cracks, scratches and other damage. Particular attention is paid to the windscreen, as even minor damage within the driver’s field of vision may affect road safety and require replacement. We also check the general condition of the glazing and, where visible, the seals and related components. A professional inspection of the vehicle’s windows helps identify defects before purchase and avoid unexpected repair costs later.
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Interior & Equipment
The interior is inspected for cleanliness, overall condition and possible damage. This includes the seats, upholstery, trim panels, dashboard, controls and the vehicle’s general cosmetic condition. Where possible without dismantling components, we also test important equipment such as the electric windows, central locking, lighting, air conditioning, windscreen wipers, infotainment system and other electrical features. This allows defects or malfunctions to be identified at an early stage and helps assess potential follow-up costs.
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Boot / Luggage Compartment
The boot is inspected for cleanliness, general condition and possible damage. This includes the load floor, side trim, securing points, boot lining and tailgate. We also check whether the required safety and breakdown equipment is present, including the first-aid kit, warning triangle, high-visibility vest, vehicle toolkit and, depending on the vehicle’s equipment, a spare wheel or tyre repair kit. The visual inspection also covers signs of moisture, water ingress and unusual wear.
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Engine Compartment
All accessible components in the engine compartment are carefully inspected visually. This includes the engine’s general condition, fluid levels, hoses, lines and visible signs of wear or corrosion. We also check for possible leaks of oil, coolant or other fluids. The engine compartment inspection provides valuable information about the vehicle’s technical condition and may reveal overdue maintenance, leaks or developing mechanical defects before purchase.
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OBD Diagnostics
Using a professional diagnostic system, we read the fault memory of all accessible electronic control units. This may include the engine, transmission, ABS, airbag system, air conditioning and other electronic systems, which are checked for stored or currently active fault codes. OBD diagnostics can reveal technical irregularities that are not visible during a visual inspection. A stored fault code does not automatically mean that a component is defective, but it may indicate a current or previous issue and should be assessed professionally before purchasing the vehicle.
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Underbody
If a vehicle lift is available at the inspection location, or if the vehicle can be raised at a workshop, the used car inspection is extended to include a comprehensive visual inspection of the underbody. We inspect the underbody, braking system, suspension, axle components, exhaust system, and visible lines and hoses. We also check for corrosion, damage and possible leaks of oil, coolant or other fluids. **Please note:** If no vehicle lift is available at the inspection location, this part of the inspection cannot be performed. The assessment is then limited to externally accessible areas. In this case, a complete inspection of the underbody, brakes and suspension is not possible.
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Test Drive
During the test drive, we assess the engine operation, manual or automatic transmission, clutch, steering, braking performance and suspension, as well as any unusual noises or vibrations. We also check important equipment and driver-assistance systems where they can be tested safely while driving. **Please note:** A test drive can only be carried out with the consent of the seller or registered keeper. The vehicle must be properly registered or fitted with valid temporary registration plates. It must also be roadworthy and safe to drive. If a test drive is not possible, the assessment is limited to stationary checks, the visual inspection and the diagnostic tests performed. This limitation is taken into account in the overall assessment.
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Market Analysis & Purchase Recommendation
At the end of the used car inspection, we summarise all findings in a clear overall assessment. This takes into account the vehicle’s technical and cosmetic condition, any defects identified, its general level of care and any repair or maintenance costs that may be expected. We also conduct a market analysis by comparing the asking price with current market offers for comparable vehicles. On this basis, you receive an objective assessment of whether the price is reasonable, whether there is scope for negotiation or whether, from an expert perspective, it would be advisable not to purchase the vehicle.