Car inspections | Pre Purchase Inspections
Motorist safety is a primary priority; as a result, automobiles registered in London must pass a yearly car inspections or Pre Purchase Inspections to guarantee compliance with safety regulations.
A pre purchase inspection will reduce risk when buying a new car. A thorough inspection of the core components of your car to confirm they are operating correctly. We will flag up any problems, so you have time to decide how best to fix and finance the issue. Our Experienced technician can visit the vehicle before you do, with you or via a virtual consultation.
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mobile mechanic London
Get a quote or to book a vehicle inspection
We are confident that we will contribute to London's most excellent pre-purchase used automobile inspection service.
Up to 120 vehicle check points
Road test
Anywhere. Anytime.
Upto 50% cheaper then similiar services
What you will need
The vehicle registration number The seller's permission The address where the vehicle is kept
Pick day, time, and place.
Your mechanic will visit you at the time and place of your choosing, whichever address works best for you.
Sit back and relax!
You can simply sit back, get a drink, and watch your favourite show without walking to the garage.
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Steps After The Booking
📅 What to Expect After Booking Your Appointment with SP88
Once you’ve booked your reversing camera installation, here’s what happens next: ✅ Step 1: Booking Pending Notification After scheduling your appointment, you’ll receive a notification confirming that your booking is pending. ✅ Step 2: Appointment Confirmation Email Once the mechanic reviews and confirms your booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with the final appointment details. ✅ Step 3: Installation Day – Meet Your Mechanic On the day of your appointment, your mechanic will arrive at the location and time you selected to complete the installation. 📅 Ready to book? Book Your Installation Now 🚀Our Terms & Conditions
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EXCELLENT Based on 168 reviews M J Thompson2025-04-11Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Shannon was recommended by a friend. It was easy to make an appointment online. Shannon sourced the part and completed the repair very efficiently. I shall certainly recommend him to friends and family. Ethan Goldberg2025-03-04Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great service. Managed to get my car back on the road after water damage and having lots of people look at it. Thank you! Heather2025-02-28Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Shannon was an amazing, he carried out the work on my car which was replacing my car window regulator. He was super quick and very professional. I would definitely recommend him and I myself will use him in the future if I need to. Thanks again Shannon and SP88. Bryan Anderson2025-02-26Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a problem with the headlights full beam on my Honda Jazz and needed a mobile auto-electrician. SP88 looked to meet that. Shannon came to do the job. He identified what the issue was and specified the part so I could order and collect it from Honda. In session 2 he fitted the part and demonstrated to me that the lights were now fully working. Shannon is a skilled operator. He explained matters in layman’s terms and was very easy to talk with. I recommend him. Amanda Burrows2025-02-20Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Couldn’t recommend Shannon enough! Not only did he fix the issue (which we didn’t think could be fixed), he also made me feel safe and listened to which I really appreciated. Thanks a million Shannon! David Brown2025-02-06Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Shannon sorted out a problem with my wife's very old Ford Focus. The instrument oanel had to be replaced. He was easy to deal with, very courteous and resolved the problem at a reasonable cost. Recommended for all auto electrics. Eddie Humphries2025-02-05Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an issue with my rear lights on my Audi A3, all were working but not in the right sequence eg, sidelights on no brake lights, DRL no rear lights but brake lights worked, headlights on no rear/brake lights, rear fog lights on no brake or sidelights!!! They had a mind of their own and I had no idea. After having 'work' carried out by 2 garages, 1 who replaced light clusters but with unable to solve my problem and admitted that 'this is beyond us mate', I contacted SP88. The young lady took my details and a brief outline of my problem and offered me an appointment which I accepted. Later that day the young lady contacted me to offer an new appointment 2 days days earlier due to a cancellation. Shannon the electrician phoned me prior to arriving to confirm his arrival time and was on time. I explained the problem and he got to work. Well, to say the guy has the patience of a saint is a big understatement, methodically working through the light clusters, onto the wiring and switches. Removing trim to gain access to places I didn't know existed and finding batches of wires, checking with his electrical equipment as he went. Onto the diagnostics machine with lots of input and readouts which went straight over my head. The bottom line was he found the fault and rectified it! Shannon was very professional and friendly and not once did he 'suck in air with a shake of the head' and 'tut', and everything was replaced and cleaned. The whole experience from my initial enquiry to the way I was dealt with in the booking process, to the followup contact and the actual work carried out, has been brilliant. Definitely recommend SP88 and I will have no hesitation in using them again, plus, and a big plus, the bill was Very reasonable. Well done to all at SP88 and thank you Jack Lockwood2025-01-30Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fixed the dash cam Top man Highly recommend Daniel2025-01-28Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Professional and very friendly service person
Most popular services by SP88 in London
- Mobile Auto Electrician
- Car Battery Replacement
- Car Stereo Replacement
- Alternator Repair/Replacement
- Starter Motor Repair/Replacement
- ABS/ESP Repairs
- Diagnostic Inspections
- Starter Motor Replacement
- Wiring Repairs and Rewiring
- Warning Light Investigation
- Repairs Cars at Home
- Engine Warning Light Inspections In London
- Car inspections | Pre-Purchase Inspections
A pre-purchase independent car check provides complete peace of mind.
Why should you choose us to inspect your vehicle?
Inspections performed on site
To make things easier, we can conduct car inspections at your chosen place, such as a dealership, your office, or even your house.
Choice of availability
We provide a thorough vehicle examination on a day that is convenient for you, which includes at least a 72-point mechanical and structural inspection.
Photographs available
We provide images to support and explain any vehicle faults discovered during our premium examination.
Vehicle Reports
The report is provided to you whether you already own a vehicle or are planning to purchase one.
Why you should choose a pre-purchase vehicle inspection
Before making a purchase, it is crucial to us at SP88.co.uk that you are entirely confident with the vehicle you have chosen. Therefore, our ongoing goal is to provide you with as much specific information as possible before you purchase, so that you can make an informed choice and won’t have any second guesses later.
We you the chance to get a professional opinion on your chosen car. By using this service, you gain access to expert information that lets you completely comprehend the vehicle and its history before entering into any arrangement.
You can select our premium or premium plus options, which provide various degrees of information about the vehicle of your choice.
The 226-point examination and a general inspection of the vehicle’s visible and mechanical components are included in the premium inspection. In addition, the car will undergo an inspection for accident damage and any signs of damage repairs before a 10-mile road test. Finally, a brake fluid check will be performed, and any problems that need to be noted will be documented with photos for your review.
It’s worth thinking about scheduling a vehicle inspection appointment if you need a more thorough examination of the car you wish to purchase. The car inspection has undergone a 318-point assessment, including a complete physical inspection. The 20-mile extended road test will allow you to see how the vehicle handles over a longer distance. The vehicle will be carefully examined for any indications of damage brought on by accidents, as well as whether such damage has ever been fixed, just like with our premium service. In addition, the brake fluid will be examined. You will receive pictures of any newly discovered issues, outlining potential trouble locations.

Vehicles that we inspect:
We offer a variety of examinations that are specifically customised to the type of vehicle being inspected, the size of its engine, and its age. There are several inspections available for:
- High Performance Car Inspections
- Car Inspections
- Van Inspections
- Motorhome Inspections
- Roadworthiness
- Mechanical & main electrical function
- Road test
- Checks for previous body repairs
Peace of Mind car Inspections
The SP88 Automotive peace-of-mind vehicle inspection is intended for those who are considering buying or have recently purchased a used car and are satisfied with the exterior, interior, and paintwork of the car but require reassurance that the mechanical condition of the car is sound.
Peace of mind regarding mechanical, vehicle operations, and past accident damage checks are provided by this car inspection. The vehicle inspection engineer gives a verbal report as well as a lengthy written report.
Please be aware that vehicles with 4×4, sports/high-performance cars, those listed as total losses, and those older than ten years do not qualify for the peace of mind vehicle examination.
The car inspection for peace of mind includes:
155 elements on the car are checked during a complete vehicle inspection
Road Test
Car Data Check (pre-purchase inspections only)
Road Test
The engineer making the peace of mind vehicle inspection runs the car up to five kilometres on the road. This test is performed to ensure that the vehicle functions correctly during and after the road test and that all electrical instruments are operational (if relevant).
High Performance Car Inspections
For customers who seek a qualified opinion on the vehicle’s overall physical look and cutting-edge functionality, SP88 Automotive’s high-performance vehicle inspection includes a thorough body check as well as an electrical components examination.
Please note:
This kind of inspection can only be performed in a proper area with an engineer’s car hoist or ramp access.
This will enable the vehicle to be elevated, and its underside inspected. When booking, the consumer must ask the vendor for authorization and get their approval. The inspection can only be conducted if a suitable hoist or ramp is available.
What exactly is covered by the SP88 High-Performance Vehicle Inspection?
- Bodywork inspection that evaluates the paint depth on the car’s panels. This will show whether any repairs have been made.
- 10-mile test drive to check that all electrical equipment is operational (if applicable)
- Interior check
- Air conditioning (if present)
- Car Data Check
Comprehensive Vehicle Inspection
For those who are considering buying a used automobile (pre-purchase) or who have just purchased a used car, a thorough vehicle examination from SP88 is appropriate (post-purchase).
For those who would prefer a qualified opinion on the vehicle’s bodywork and general cosmetic appeal, SP88’s complete vehicle inspection offers a full body check in addition to performing a full mechanical assessment on the car.
What does the SP88 comprehensive vehicle inspection include?
- A full inspection of the vehicle, checking up to 202 items
- Bodywork check which involves an assessment on the paint depth on the vehicle’s panels.
- 10-mile road test to ensure all electrical instruments are functioning (if applicable)
- Interior check
- Air conditioning (if present)
- Car Data Check (pre-purchase inspections only)
See SP88 In Action
Discover the Swift and Spotless SP88 Repair Experience. Our services extend beyond SP88 repairs and cover brakes, alternators, starters, batteries, and axles. Once you experience our exceptional quality and effortless service, you’ll never want to go back to a traditional shop!
We come to you!
Here's a Mobile mechanic & repairs service based in Sutton, Surrey, serving communities nearby London and Surrey. SP88 is the service that comes to your home & business for all your vehicle services and car repairs. SP88 Auto electricians work on the components of a vehicle's electrical system (battery, starter motor, alternator, fuse box, wiring, and connectors), as well as on all the other electrical equipment and accessories in a vehicle, such as headlights, anti-theft alarms, GPS devices, air conditioning systems, central locking, digital dashboard displays, electric wing mirrors, and electric seats. learn about our auto electrician.
Auto electricians work with private, commercial, and industrial vehicles of all types, including cars, motorbikes, vans, camper vans, and heavier vehicles, such as trucks, HGVs, buses, and coaches. Also, Check out our youtube channel.
We are here to assist. Our experts can answer any questions you may have because they are intimately familiar with cars, garages, and drivers.
Car inspections Tips and Advise
FAQs
Driving a new car on a long-distance trip is not a good idea because the engine and gears might need to be properly oiled and wear out sooner. As a result, it’s wise to avoid long-distance journeys in a new car and instead choose shorter drives.
After all, products have been completely manufactured, a full inspection (100% inspection) is performed. Finally, a crucial product inspection is conducted to ensure the finished items meet the client’s quality criteria.
The most significant and apparent reason to evaluate your car is safety. A car’s flaw discovered during an inspection could prevent troubles down the road. But, on the other hand, a breakdown on the road might cost you money and time, or even worse, a collision.
Keeping your car periodically inspected is a fantastic way to help prevent accidents, even though numerous factors might contribute to them. Mechanics examine the steering and braking systems, fluid levels, windshield wiper performance, tyre condition, and other components that, if neglected, could suffer serious harm.
You can, according to the answer, but just for a week and with specific paperwork. The Sales Invoice is the official paperwork that enables you to operate your brand-new vehicle without the OR/CR. It’s vital to remember that this must be valid and match the vehicle’s conduction sticker.
Pre-production, in-line, and final quality inspections are the three main categories. To identify and address quality issues, a number of details must be examined and approved during each phase.
If it fails the safety or emissions tests, your car must be fixed and pass a retest within 60 days after the initial inspection. Since it’s against the law to drive your car before safety repairs are done, it’s crucial to finish the required work as soon as possible. Keep the repair invoices in your car as evidence that you comply with the law until your vehicle is re-inspected. Keeping invoices for emissions-related repairs is also a good idea in case your car fails a retest, and you need to request a waiver or delay.
Yes. Your car can be eligible for a one-year emissions waiver if it has been fixed by a Registered Emissions Repair Technician but fails the re-test. In addition, you can be eligible for a one-year, non-renewable Economic Hardship Failure Repair Extension if your car needs a significant repair like an engine or transmission overhaul. To comply with programme criteria, you must apply for an emissions waiver or extension within 60 days after your initial inspection.
A safety inspection lasts about 12 minutes, and 14 different parts of the car are looked at.
Your trailer must undergo a commercial inspection if used for commercial purposes and has a manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of more than 3,000 pounds or a gross combination vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds.