Pre Buy Check FAQ

About Pre Buy Check

What is Pre Buy Check?

Pre Buy Check is a mobile pre-purchase car inspection service across the UAE. Our trained technicians come to the car, wherever it is, and inspect it before you buy. You get an honest, independent report so you know the true condition of the vehicle before you pay.

What is a pre-purchase car inspection?

It is a detailed check of a used car's mechanical, electrical, body and safety condition, carried out before you commit to buying. It exposes hidden problems such as accident repairs, engine or gearbox faults, flood damage and odometer tampering. These are the things a test drive alone can't reveal.

Why choose Pre Buy Check over a garage or the seller's own report?

We work only for you, the buyer. We have no link to the seller, the showroom or any repair shop, so our report is unbiased. We also come to the car, so you don't have to arrange transport or take time off.

Do you have a physical workshop?

No. We are a mobile inspection service. We inspect the car at the seller's location, showroom, car market or home, which saves you time and travel.

Service areas and booking

Which areas does Pre Buy Check cover?

Abu Dhabi

Khalifa City, Mussafah, Mohammed Bin Zayed (MBZ) City, Al Reem Island, Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, Al Maryah Island, Al Raha, Shakhbout City, Al Shamkha, Al Wathba, Baniyas, Masdar City, Al Bateen, Al Khalidiyah, Al Mushrif, Al Markaziyah (Tourist Club Area), Corniche, Al Jimi, Al Mutawaa, Al Hili, Zakher, Al Towayya, Al Sarooj

Dubai

Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, Al Barsha, Al Furjan, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai Investment Park, Dubai Sports City, Motor City, Dubai Production City, International City, Dubai Hills Estate, Meydan, Nad Al Sheba, Arabian Ranches, Damac Hills, Jebel Ali, Dubai South, Dubai Industrial City, Hatta

Sharjah

Al Nahda, Al Taawun, Al Majaz, Al Khan, Al Qasimia, Rolla, Al Ghubaiba, Al Mamzar, Abu Shagara, Muwaileh, Al Qulayaa, Al Heera, Al Suyoh, University City, Aljada, Al Zahia, Maryam Island, Tilal City, Sharjah Industrial Areas (1–18), Souq Al Haraj (Used Car Market)

Ajman

Al Nuaimiya, Al Rashidiya, Al Rawda, Al Jurf, Al Mowaihat, Al Hamidiya, Al Bustan, Al Zahra, Al Rumaila, Emirates City, Ajman Corniche, Ajman Industrial Area

Umm Al Quwain

Old Town, Al Salamah, Al Raas, Al Humra, Al Ramlah, Al Dar Al Hamra, Al Haditha, Al Khor, Emirates Modern Industrial Area

Ras Al Khaimah

Al Hamra Village, Mina Al Arab, Al Marjan Island, Al Mamourah, Julfar, Al Qusaidat, Khuzam, Ghalilah, Wadi Shah, RAK Industrial Area

Fujairah

Al Faseel, Sakamkam, Al Gurfa, Madhab, Rul Dadnah, Merashid, Fujairah Industrial Area

Can you inspect a car at a showroom or used-car market?

Yes. We regularly inspect cars at showrooms, car markets and private sellers' homes or any place as per customers convenient. We coordinate directly with the seller on a time that suits everyone.

How do I book an inspection?

Book through the website, or call or WhatsApp us on +971 54 299 3398. Send the car's make, model, year and location, and we confirm a time slot, usually the same day or next day.

How long does the inspection take?

Most inspections take around 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the car. You receive the report the same day.

Do you offer weekend and evening inspections?

Yes. We know most buyers work during the week, so we offer flexible slots including weekends.

Do I need to be present during the inspection?

It is helpful but not required. If you are abroad or busy, we can inspect the car with the seller and send you the full report with photos.

Can you inspect a car for someone buying from overseas or from another emirate?

Yes. Many clients ask us to inspect a car on their behalf before they transfer money or travel. We send a photo-backed report you can review remotely.

The inspection

What does your car inspection include?

Our inspection covers:

• Engine condition, leaks and noises
• Gearbox and transmission
• Suspension, steering and brakes
• Tyres and wheels
• Electrical systems, battery and warning lights
• AC and cooling system
• Interior condition and features
• Body and paint (accident and repair detection)
• Chassis and structural condition
• Fluid levels and condition
• Computer diagnostic scan (error codes)
• Road test

Can you detect accident damage?

Yes. We check for repainted panels, uneven panel gaps, welding marks, replaced parts and chassis using paint-thickness measurement and visual inspection. We report every sign of accident repair we find.

Can you detect flood-damaged cars?

We look for signs of water damage such as rust in unusual places, damp or musty carpets, silt traces and corroded electrical parts. We advise you clearly if there is a risk.

Can you tell if the mileage (odometer) has been tampered with?

We cross-check the odometer reading against the car's wear, service history and diagnostic data. If something doesn't add up, we flag it in your report.

Do you inspect sports cars, luxury cars and SUVs?

Yes. We inspect sedans, SUVs, 4x4s, luxury cars, sports cars, muscle cars and more. Tell us the model when you book so we send the right technician.

Do you inspect electric and hybrid cars?

Yes. We check the overall condition, battery health indicators, charging system and diagnostic data.

Do you check the car's service history and documents?

We visually check the Mulkiya (registration card), service records and visible documentation, and we advise what else you should verify before buying.

Your report

What do I get after the inspection?

You receive a clear digital report with photos, a condition rating for each system, the issues found, estimated repair priorities and our overall buying recommendation.

How will I receive the report?

By WhatsApp and email, usually as a PDF.

Will you tell me whether to buy the car?

We give you an honest assessment: good to buy, buy with negotiation, or avoid. The final decision is always yours.

Can the report help me negotiate a lower price?

Yes. A documented list of faults and estimated repair costs gives you solid grounds to negotiate or walk away.

What if the inspection finds serious problems?

You have saved yourself from a costly mistake. You can negotiate, ask the seller to repair the faults, or look for another car. We can inspect your next choice too.

Prices and payment

How much does a Pre Buy Check inspection cost?

Basic costs AED 199 + VAT and Comprehensive costs AED 399 + VAT. See our packages for what each one covers.

Are there any hidden charges?

No. The package price plus VAT covers the full inspection and report.

How can I pay?

We accept bank transfer and online payment links.s.

Is the inspection fee worth it?

An An AED 399 inspection can save you thousands of dirhams in hidden repair costs. It is the cheapest insurance against buying a bad used car.

Do you offer discounts for multiple cars?

Yes. If you are comparing several cars, ask us about multi-car packages.

Buying a used car in the UAE

How do I buy a used car in the UAE?

Follow these steps:

1. Set your budget, including insurance, registration and maintenance.
2. Search trusted sources: dealerships, online platforms and car markets.
3. Check the car's documents and history.
4. Book a Pre Buy Check inspection.
5. Test drive the car.
6. Negotiate using your inspection report.
7. Confirm the car has no fines, bank loan or mortgage.
8. Transfer ownership at an approved registration center.
9. Arrange insurance and complete payment safely.

What documents should I check when buying a used car?

Check the seller's Emirates ID, the car's Mulkiya (registration), insurance, service records and any bank loan clearance letter. Confirm the name on the Mulkiya matches the seller.

How do I check if a used car has unpaid traffic fines or a bank loan?

Check outstanding fines with the relevant traffic authority (Dubai Police, Sharjah Police or the RTA). If the car is financed, ask the seller for a bank liability letter or settlement, and don't pay until the car is free of any lien.

What is the safest way to pay for a used car?

Avoid paying large cash amounts upfront. Pay only at the time of ownership transfer, ideally by manager's cheque or bank transfer, and get a signed sale agreement.

Should I buy from a dealer or a private seller?

Both have pros and cons. Dealers may offer convenience and limited warranties, while private sellers may offer better prices. Either way, an independent inspection protects you.

What is the difference between GCC-spec and imported cars?

GCC-spec cars are built for Gulf conditions (heat, dust, fuel quality). Imported cars may have different specs, lower resale value or harder-to-find parts. We help you identify the spec and any modifications.

What are the most common problems with used cars in the UAE?

Heat-related wear on AC, batteries, rubber parts and paint; hidden accident repairs; flood damage; overdue maintenance; and rolled-back odometers.

When is the best time to buy a used car in the UAE?

Many buyers find better deals around the end of summer, when residents relocate, and around year-end. Whatever the season, always inspect first.

How can I trust the seller?

Don't rely on trust alone, so verify. Meet in a public or well-known location, check the seller's ID against the Mulkiya, confirm there are no fines or loans, ask for service records, and get an independent inspection. A genuine seller will welcome the inspection. A seller who refuses should raise a red flag.

What are the red flags when buying a used car?

Watch out for:

• The price is far below market value
• The seller refuses an independent inspection
• The seller pressures you to pay quickly
• The name on the Mulkiya doesn't match the seller
• Missing or inconsistent service records
• The seller asks for a deposit before you see the car
• The story keeps changing

What if the seller doesn't allow an inspection?

Walk away. A seller with nothing to hide has no reason to refuse a pre-purchase inspection.

How can I avoid used car scams in the UAE?

Never transfer money before seeing the car and its documents, avoid deals that happen only over chat, verify ownership, inspect the car independently, and complete the transfer officially.

Trust and other questions

Is Pre Buy Check independent?

Yes. We don't buy or sell cars, and we take no commission from sellers, showrooms or garages. Our only client is you.

Are your inspectors qualified?

Our technicians are experienced automotive professionals using professional diagnostic equipment.

Is my information kept confidential?

Yes. Your report goes only to you. We share personal details only where needed to deliver the service, as set out in our privacy policy.

I'm new to the UAE. Can you help me buy my first car?

Yes. We can guide you through the inspection and explain what to check, so you feel confident even if you have never bought a car here.

Can you help me inspect a car before I sell it?

Yes. A pre-sale inspection report builds buyer confidence and can help you sell faster at a fair price.

Do you offer inspections for cars being bought through auctions or car markets?

Yes, where access allows. Contact us with the location and timing.

Can you recommend a good used car?

We don't sell cars, but our inspectors can give you honest general advice on reliable models and common issues. Ask us when you book.

Which languages does your team speak?

Our team speaks English, Malayalam, Hindi, Urdu and Arabic.

Is a pre-purchase inspection the same as the annual vehicle test (renewal test)?

No. The annual test checks that a car meets basic roadworthiness and safety standards for registration renewal. A pre-purchase inspection is much more detailed and checks the car's true condition for a buyer.