What is a Car Evaluation?

Buying a pre-owned car is a major financial decision. It’s vital to get a car evaluation to ensure the used car of your choice is mechanically sound and roadworthy.

Unlike a normal car inspection, a car evaluation is more rigorous and thorough. It gives car buyers a better sense of a used car’s overall condition before the purchase is completed.

Although a pre-owned car might look polished and defect-free from its exterior, you’ll never know if it suffers from wear and tear or defective parts.

This is especially the case for damages to the chassis, engine, transmission box, brake system, and steering system.

Unlike external or cosmetic damages, these damages can only be identified by an automotive professional and the use of specialised testing equipment.

(Photo Credit: Pexels)

As a general rule of thumb, car buyers should always ask for a car evaluation before purchasing a used car. If a seller or dealer refuses, they might be trying to hide certain defects from you. Remember, an honest seller/dealer will never say no to a car evaluation.

However, do note that some dealers might claim that the car has already been evaluated. Take this with a pinch of salt, as they might be referring to the standard periodic car inspection for road tax renewal purpose, which is totally different.

Another thing to be aware of is if a dealer insists on sending the car to the evaluation centre or workshop of their choice. This is probably disadvantageous to the buyer.

As a buyer, you have the choice to decide where to send the car for an evaluation. Although you might have to pay for the evaluation yourself, it’s a small price to pay as compared to purchasing a “lemon”.

Once your car has been evaluated, the evaluation centre will hand you a report that highlights the existing condition of the car, including defects and other observations.

With the evaluation report, you can either ask for a price reduction, or request for the dealer to repair the defects before the purchase.

However, if something significant is damaged, like the chassis, brake system, or transmission box, it might be better to walk away, as the car might be dangerous to drive.

If you are looking to have a used car evaluated, look no further than VFIT by VICOM. With 38 years of experience in the automotive industry, they provide one of the most comprehensive evaluation reports in the industry.

In fact, their evaluation report complies with the Standard and Functional Evaluation Checklist set by the Consumer Association of Singapore (CASE).

To set an appointment, simply head over their online booking system. Once your car has been evaluated, you’ll have a better peace of mind before the purchase.

If you are looking for a used car, look no further! Motorist has just launched its Used Car Listing page. This bidding platform is the first of its kind as we connect you to direct sellers for all the convenience and affordability perks you won't find anywhere else. So brows now!

In our next article, we’ll be discussing the differences between a periodic car inspection and a car evaluation. Do keep a lookout for it!

Read More: Everything You Need to Know About Vehicle Inspection

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