vehicle inspections
WalkerSport carry out PPI inspections* on a “Best personal opinion” basis.
Advice.
When choosing an inspector you need to find out exactly what they will be checking and where their specialist skills are directed. Some people have a mechanical background and others a cosmetic...its quite rare to find an inspector that knows both, you should enquire which field is there speciality. A HPI report should be carried out fresh by the inspector.
Mechanical inspections should cover the following;
Mechnical inspection covering all wearing parts as per MOT test including Suspension joints, Track rod ends, Brake lines and areas loose or poorly fitted under the car. Catalytic converters if fitted when new are now an MOT requirement, instant failure for cars that have had them removed - this should be sighted.
On a more specialist nature some inspectors maybe able to tell you about the clutch wear for F1 systems, Error codes logged but only if they have access to an SD2 / SD3 Diagnostic machine, Chatter and noises from the engine, Leaks including power steering pipes, clutch block, Cam seals, Rear main seal (only a major leak will be spotted) HVAC condition and the weaker areas specific to each model. If replacement panels have been found then a strip down and age estimation in that area to determine the level of mechanical damage. Photo evidence should be provided will all sightings.
Compression tests are usually charged extra.
Cosmetic inspections should cover the following;
Panel fit - uniform and correct to Ferrari factory standards, evidence of accident damage or panel replacement should be sighted.
Paint work should be the correct shade and finish all around the car, with any non original paint areas noted and photographed, all black areas should be on top of the original paintwork and be to the correct edge of paint line.
Interior should be graded to mileage and possible refurbishment cost, Photo evidence of all concern areas. All switch gear and controls should be tested and reported on.
The aim of a PPI is to limit the risk and exposure to a car that has been obused, damaged, neglected or even just due for expensive works, inspections are generally carried out on a best personal opinion basis, and cannot be held responsible for errors and omissions especially when they are on a drive way in the wet doing their best!
Please do not buy the first or even the second car that you see, on average WalkerSport buy less than 1/3 of the cars they physically inspect.
Please contact us for advice.