Inspection work we do before people hand over the money
History before the ramp
iDrive or MMI digital service record, plus invoices. A full-service-history advert that is only dealer stamps from 40,000 miles ago is not a history. Missing DSG, Haldex or ZF services matter as much as missing oil changes.
HPI and a mileage check are your job. We look at the car.
What we scan
All modules, not a £20 plug. Airbag, ABS, gearbox, transfer box, parking sensors. Stored faults that a seller “cleared this morning” often come back. Live data on DSG and Haldex tells you more than a clean dash.
The expensive bits on these cars
- Timing belt versus chain: confirm from the engine code. A belt that is two years overdue is a buying decision, not a surprise later.
- DSG: judder, service history, fluid condition.
- Haldex on transverse quattro and 4Motion: filter and pump. A car that is quietly front-wheel drive is not a bargain.
- ZF automatics on BMWs: fluid that has never been changed at 90,000 miles.
- Cooling system: pumps, thermostats, expansion tanks.
- Sunroof drains and boot seals on BMWs. Wet carpets mean modules later.
Test drive is not enough
A ten-minute run around Solihull will not show a DSG that judders when hot, or a water pump that weeps after 20 minutes. If you are serious about the car, book it in. We will tell you what is urgent, what is bargaining, and what is fine.
We quote inspection work like any other job. See the servicing page, or ask when you book.