Single Car Inspection
A full pre-purchase inspection of one used car at the seller's location. Mechanical, electrical, bodywork and diagnostic checks, plus a full history and finance check - all in one detailed report.
Pre-Purchase Car Inspections Anywhere in Ireland
Buying a used car? We inspect it at the seller's location - anywhere in the country - and give you a clear, independent report before you pay.
Our Car Inspection Services
Multiple Car Comparison
Comparing a few cars? We inspect several vehicles in one day, so you can buy with confidence. Includes everything in a single inspection, plus expert advice while you compare.
What's Included in a
Pre-Purchase Inspection
Every inspection is a thorough, independent check of the car's condition, history and paperwork — so you know exactly what you're buying before you hand over any money.
Engine & gearbox
Performance, leaks, noises and overall mechanical health
Brakes & suspension
Wear, safety and road performance on a full road test
Bodywork & paint
Hidden repairs, previous accident damage and resprays
Diagnostic scan
Live and stored fault codes from the car's ECUs
Tyres & wheels
Tread depth, wear, damage and a matching set
History check
Mileage discrepancies, write-offs, taxi or import history
Finance check
Any outstanding finance or legal owner on the vehicle
Detailed report
Clear findings, photos and a buy / walk-away verdict
Something specific on your mind?
Get in touchHow Our Car Inspection Works
Step 1
Get a quote
Tell us the car, the year and where it is. We confirm your price up front.
Step 2
Confirm the booking
Pick a date and pay securely online. We arrange the viewing with the seller if needed.
Step 3
We inspect on-site
Our expert travels to the car's location anywhere in Ireland and carries out the full inspection.
Step 4
You get the report
Receive your detailed report with photos, usually the same day, so you can decide with confidence.
Why a Pre-Purchase Inspection Is Worth It
A used car is one of the biggest purchases you'll make. A small inspection fee can save you thousands — and a lot of stress.
Avoid costly repairs
Hidden mechanical and electrical faults can cost far more than the car was worth saving.
Stay safe
A poorly repaired accident car can put you and your family at risk. We spot what a quick look won't.
Negotiate with facts
A detailed report gives you real leverage to lower the price — or walk away.
Buy with confidence
No second-guessing. You'll know exactly what you're getting before you pay.
Transparent Pricing
Every fee is fixed and agreed upfront — no hidden charges.
You only pay the negotiation fee when we actually save you money.
To get started
Start fee
€50
Non-refundable. Confirms your booking and starts the process.
Car search
€30
Fixed prepayment via Revolut. We search DoneDeal 2–3× per week and shortlist the best matches.
Inspection
On-site car inspection
€50
Full mechanical, bodywork and condition check at the seller's location.
Computer diagnostics
€20
OBD fault-code scan — carried out where needed.
Additional costs
Fuel
€0.45/km
Minimum charge €30. Toll roads billed separately at cost.
Working time
€15/hr
Applies to waiting, viewings without a full diagnostic, or inspecting multiple cars on the same trip.
Car delivery
From €50
Plus €0.45/km and return transport for our inspector.
Negotiation – Success fee only
Saving €500–1,000
€100
You pay only when we secure a discount in this range.
Saving €1,000–2,000
€200
You pay only when we secure a discount in this range.
Always included: Full deal support from first contact to signing,
plus photos at the end of every transaction.
Our Happy Customers
Pre-Purchase Car Inspection FAQs
What is a pre-purchase car inspection?
A pre-purchase car inspection is an independent check of a used car before you buy it. At mntvlsauto we assess the vehicle's mechanical, electrical and structural condition, run a full diagnostic scan, road test it, and carry out a vehicle history and finance check — then send you a detailed report so you know exactly what you're buying.
How much does a pre-purchase car inspection cost in Ireland?
A pre-purchase car inspection with mntvlsauto starts from €80 for a single car. You see your exact, fixed price before you book, and nationwide travel to the seller's location is included — with no hidden fees.
Do you carry out car inspections across all of Ireland?
Yes. mntvlsauto provides pre-purchase car inspections nationwide, covering all 26 counties — from Dublin, Cork and Galway to Limerick, Waterford and beyond. We travel to wherever the car is located, so you don't have to move it.
How long does a pre-purchase inspection take?
A standard single-car inspection usually takes around 2 hours, depending on the vehicle. You'll typically receive your full written report the same day, so you can make a decision quickly.
Do I need to be present for the inspection?
No, you don't need to attend the inspection. You're welcome to come along, but it isn't required — we send you a complete report with photos either way, so you can review everything remotely.
What does a pre-purchase car inspection include?
Every inspection covers the engine and gearbox, brakes and suspension, bodywork and paint, and tyres and wheels, plus a full diagnostic scan, a vehicle history check (mileage, write-offs, imports) and a finance check. You receive a detailed report with photos and a clear buy-or-walk-away recommendation.
Do you check the car's history and outstanding finance?
Yes. Every mntvlsauto inspection includes a vehicle history check and a car finance check. We look for mileage discrepancies, previous write-offs, taxi or import history, and any outstanding finance or third-party legal owner on the car — so there are no surprises after you buy.
Can you inspect electric and hybrid cars?
Yes, we inspect electric (EV) and hybrid cars as well as petrol and diesel vehicles. Alongside the standard checks, we assess the car's electronic systems and read stored fault codes to help flag potential issues before you buy.
What happens if you find a problem with the car?
If we find any issues, we list them clearly in your report with photos and give you our honest recommendation. You can use the findings to negotiate a lower price, ask the seller to fix the problem, or walk away from the wrong car with confidence.
How do I book a pre-purchase car inspection?
Booking is simple — request a quote with the car's make, model, year, registration and location, and we'll confirm your fixed price and a time. You can book online or call us on +353 85 284 7771, and in most cases we can inspect the car within a few days.
Is a pre-purchase car inspection worth it?
Yes — a pre-purchase inspection is one of the cheapest ways to avoid an expensive mistake. For a small fixed fee, an independent inspection can uncover hidden faults, accident damage or outstanding finance that could cost you thousands, giving you real leverage and peace of mind before you buy.
Book Your Car Inspection
Fill in the details below and we'll confirm your price and a time.