A pre-purchase inspection is a comprehensive check-up of a vehicle to assess its overall condition. It helps identify any hidden issues that may not be immediately visible, such as engine problems, transmission wear, or suspension issues.Read on to learn more about why a pre-purchase inspection is vital for your peace of mind and financial security.
When buying a used car, you might overlook underlying problems that could end up costing you significantly after purchasing. A pre-purchase inspection offers several important benefits:
When conducting a car pre-purchase inspection, there are several factors that you must take into account:
During the inspection, any signs of engine wear, oil leaks, and unusual sounds may indicate internal damage. The overall condition of the engine, including fluids is checked.
Transmission issues can be costly to repair, so it’s essential to inspect the transmission system thoroughly. Transmission fluid leaks, test shifting performance is determined.
Modern cars rely heavily on electrical systems to operate everything from lights to the air conditioning system. During the pre-purchase inspection, your car’s electrical components are inspected, including the battery, alternator, wiring, and fuses, to ensure they are working correctly.
Brakes are one of the most critical safety components of any vehicle, so it’s essential to ensure they work well. A mechanic will inspect the brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid levels to ensure there is no excessive wear or damage.
The exterior condition of a vehicle indicates the signs of previous accidents, rust, or poor repairs. Pay attention to things like mismatched paint, uneven gaps between body panels, or signs of welding, as these could indicate the car has been involved in a serious accident.
A thorough inspection should include checking the upholstery, dashboard, controls, and seats for any wear and tear. If you’re buying a car that has leather seats, check for any cracks or damage, as leather can deteriorate in the harsh UAE climate.
We have mentioned a list of centres for pre purchase vehicle inspection in Dubai:
Centre Name | Address | Contact Details | Working Hours |
---|---|---|---|
AutoHub | 597J+8R9 Sajaya 7- Shop 15B, Al Manama St, Nad Al Sheba, Nad Al Sheba 3, Dubai, UAE | +971566143314 | Monday- Sunday: 9.00 am- 7.00 pm |
CheckAnyCar | Digital Park- IFZA A3, Building Office- 112, 112 Street, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Industrial Area, Dubai, UAE | +971543997700 | Monday- Sunday: 9.00 am- 7.00 pm |
Powertech Auto Services | Next to Al Ahli Driving Center, Al Quoz, Al Quoz Industrial Area- 4, Dubai, UAE | N/A | Monday- Sunday: 8.30 am- 7.00 pm |
Prime Auto Repair LLC | 14 8 St - Al Quoz, Aquzamintiqat Alqawz Alsinaeiat 4, Dubai, UAE | +971509277204 | Monday- Saturday: 8.00 am- 6.00 pm |
Auto Scan Vehicle Services | Hilly Tower, 19A St, Al Nahda, Al Nahda 2, Dubai, UAE | +971501724151 | Monday- Sunday: 9.00 am- 11.00 pm |
No, car insurance does not cover the costs of pre-purchase inspection. With that said, getting this insurance, especially a comprehensive car insurance plan, is quite important. More than just fulfilling the legal requirements in the UAE (third-party coverage), it also covers your own vehicle in case of damages and losses due to accidents.
With a comprehensive plan, you can be covered against —
The cost of a pre-purchase inspection in the UAE usually starts from AED 200, depending on the service provider and the depth of the inspection.
While it’s possible to perform a basic check of a used car yourself, a professional mechanic is recommended for a comprehensive inspection. They have the tools and expertise to identify major problems that may not be immediately visible to you.
A pre-purchase inspection is not mandatory in the UAE, but it is highly recommended. Many buyers opt for this service to ensure that the car they’re purchasing is in good condition and to avoid unexpected repair costs in the future.