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Pre-purchase vehicle inspection 

Find out what a pre-purchase vehicle inspection is, how to book an appointment, how much it costs and how to change or cancel a booking. 

What is a pre-purchase vehicle inspection?

A pre-purchase vehicle inspection allows the car buyer to receive an independent vehicle inspection detailing the condition of a vehicle and approximate market value before they buy.

The private seller/trader must agree to the inspection. A refusal could indicate the inspection may highlight defects that could result in additional costs to repair following the purchase.

We can perform this test for you at any of our three test centres.

Take a look at what the report covers:

Key vehicle details

  • Age, make, model, colour and registration number
  • Cubic capacity, chassis and engine numbers
  • Fuel type, transmission and speedometer reading

General overall condition

  • Bodywork, chassis, suspension, subwork and floor
  • Accidents/damage/repair
  • Windscreens and windows, washers and wipers
  • Lights, indicators and horn
  • Engine, battery and cooling system 
  • Fuel, exhaust and emissions
  • Wheel bearings, alignment and condition
  • Tyre quality
  • Seat belts, security system and security lock
  • Upholstery and general appearance

Observations

  • Estimated future life
  • Whether it would pass an MOT
  • Estimated value

Which types of vehicles can be inspected?

Any vehicle can be inspected, there are no exemptions. 

Does the inspection come with a warranty?

The inspection comes with no warranty.

Do I get a report after the inspection?

You will receive a report after the inspection. The report will include details about the vehicle’s condition and an approximation of the vehicle’s current market value.

How much does it cost?

There is a £60 charge (including VAT) for a pre-purchase inspection. Payment is made at the time of booking by credit or debit card.

Can the inspection be undertaken without me being present?

The inspection takes approximately an hour. You can wait while the inspection is carried out or you can leave the vehicle and collect it later in the day.

How do I book a pre-purchase inspection?

To book a pre-purchase inspection, you’ll need the following information: 

  • vehicle registration number
  • vehicle make
  • vehicle model 
  • any preferred test time 
  • at least one contact telephone number.
Due to technical issues, the online booking form below is currently unavailable. If you would like to make a booking, please call your nearest depot:

Beverley - Tel: (01482) 395781
Carnaby - Tel: (01262) 401973
Goole - Tel: (01405) 766938

Only card payments will be accepted at the depots. Cash payments can be made at any Customer Service Centre.

How do I change or cancel a booking?

Please call the depot where your test is booked:

Beverley: (01482) 395781

Carnaby: (01262) 401973

Goole: (01405) 766938

What if I missed my booked inspection?

If you failed to show on the day of your booked inspection, you will need to book it again.

Please note: you may still be charged for the missed appointment.

Where are the test centres? 

The council has three test centres:

Beverley Depot, Annie Reed Road, Beverley HU17 0LF

Opening hours: 6am - 5pm Monday to Friday.

Carnaby Depot, Carnaby Industrial Estate, Bridlington YO15 3QY

Opening hours: 6am - 5pm Monday to Friday.

Goole Depot, Seavy Road, Goole DN14 6TA

Opening hours: 6am - 5pm Monday to Friday. 

How do I complain if I am not satisfied with the service I received?

If you weren't satisfied with the service you received during your recent pre-purchase inspection, please send your comments and contact details to:

Email: fleet.management@eastriding.gov.uk.

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