Before you look at the car
Ask for the service history, the number of previous owners, and whether the car has had accident repairs. Check that the details on the registration match the car. Then arrange to see it in daylight, with the engine cold.
Walk-around checks
Look for panels with different paint shades or uneven gaps, overspray on rubber seals, and mismatched tyres. Check the date codes on the tyres and the condition of the glass and lights.
Under the bonnet and underneath
Look for leaks and fresh oil around the engine, cracked hoses, and damp or crusty coolant marks. Check fluid levels and condition. Underneath, look for damaged or bent components, leaking shocks, and signs of repair work.
Inside the car
Test every switch, window and screen. Make sure warning lights come on at start-up and then go out. Smell for damp or mould. Run the A/C on full to check it gets cold, since this is a costly repair to fix in Dubai.
The road test
Drive on a mix of roads. Listen for knocks, whines and rattles. Check that the car tracks straight, brakes without pulling or vibration, and that the gearbox shifts smoothly.
Why get a garage inspection
Some faults only show on a lift or on a computer scan: stored fault codes, hidden leaks, hidden accident repair and worn suspension components. An independent inspection gives you a list of problems and rough repair needs, which helps you decide or negotiate.
Published 2026-11-07. General advice only; every vehicle is different, so ask us about yours.