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Illustrative vehicle diagnostics with a scan tool at the open engine bay

Inspect, document, explain

What we check—and what no car check can promise.

Scope depends on the package, vehicle, access and on-site conditions. We do not hide limits; we state them clearly in the result.

Choose a packageView the process
The right inspection scopeBerlin + mobileClear report

Inspection scope

Inspect systematically without promising more than can be seen

Depending on package and vehicle, we use a checklist, OBD, measuring equipment and mobile tools or workshop equipment on accessible areas.

Typical inspection areas

  • Vehicle details, VIN, mileage, first registration and powertrain
  • Registration, HU report, service records, keys and promised accessories
  • Bodywork, panel gaps, seals and door and bonnet functions
  • Paint thickness, repainting, corrosion and visible previous damage
  • Glass, mirrors, exterior lights, warning lights, wipers and washers
  • Tyres, wheels and visible brake components
  • Engine start and operation, oil, coolant and other accessible fluids
  • Engine bay for visible leaks, belts, hoses, lines and mountings
  • Accessible underbody, exhaust and visible fuel and brake lines
  • Steering, shock absorbers, springs, joints, bearings and bushes in accessible areas
  • OBD, fault memory and vehicle electrical systems
  • Windows, locks, warning displays, controls and assistance functions
  • Interior, seats, belts, airbag indications, moisture, air conditioning and infotainment
  • Engine, drivetrain, clutch, transmission, steering and brakes during a possible test drive
  • Electric and hybrid cars: visible high-voltage components, charging port, cable and available status displays
  • Photos documenting VIN, mileage, vehicle condition and findings
  • Summary of damage, risks, open questions and recommended next steps

Important limits

  • No destructive testing or dismantling without a separate order
  • Hidden, intermittent or currently undetectable defects may remain
  • A test drive depends on permission, registration, road safety and local conditions
  • No lift is available on mobile visits; inaccessible underbody areas are marked
  • The check is not a guarantee and does not replace manufacturer information or specialised laboratory testing

What your car-check report records

Our inspection sheet separates observations, measurements and open questions. Available checks depend on the package, vehicle and access at the appointment.

Vehicle, VIN and documents

InspectionWe compare an accessible vehicle identification number with the documents provided and review the mileage display, inspection and service records.

In the reportReadings, available records and discrepancies are recorded. Statements supplied verbally remain identifiable as such.

LimitA matching VIN or mileage display does not prove a complete history or unchanged mileage. Looking at documents does not certify their authenticity.

Bodywork, paint, glass and lights

InspectionWe check visible damage, repair traces, panel gaps, glass and light functions, with paint measurements in accessible areas.

In the reportMeasurement location and value, visible findings and relevant photos make observations traceable.

LimitHidden previous damage may remain. A single paint reading does not prove that a car has never been in an accident.

Engine, tyres, brakes and underbody

InspectionWe observe engine operation, accessible fluids, tyres, brake components, suspension and steering. Underbody visibility depends on access and inspection type.

In the reportMeasurements include value and location; fluid traces include location and observation. The actual method of viewing the underbody is identified.

LimitNo lift is available for a mobile check. Covered or internal components are not dismantled without a separate order; a visual check does not predict service life.

OBD, electrical systems and interior

InspectionWhere technically possible, we read accessible control units and check warning displays, available electrical functions and the visible interior.

In the reportOBD code, control unit and available information are recorded separately from interpretation. Moisture, odours and functional deviations are described in context.

LimitA fault code alone does not prove its cause. Access and vehicle support may limit diagnostics; an empty fault memory does not rule out every defect.

Test drive and driving behaviour

InspectionWhere permitted, registered and safe, we observe the drivetrain, gear changes, steering, braking and unusual noises while driving.

In the reportPermission, route, conditions and observations are recorded. A cancelled or restricted drive is explicitly identified.

LimitThe package and conditions determine scope. A short drive cannot reproduce every temperature, speed or later load.

Electric and hybrid cars

InspectionWe visually check accessible high-voltage components and warning labels, the charging port, supplied cable and available status displays; charging is checked only where possible on site.

In the reportCharging conditions, displayed information and visible damage are recorded; vehicle readings are not presented as our own capacity measurement.

LimitHigh-voltage components are not opened. This accessible inspection is not a specialist battery capacity test or a range guarantee.

Photos, limitations and findings

InspectionWe connect observations to the vehicle and inspection points, recording weather, light, access and relevant photos.

In the reportFindings, their significance, unavailable checks and remaining questions are summarised. The released report is available through the protected order link.

LimitThe report records the condition and inspection scope at the appointment. Signatures acknowledge documented points; they are not a purchase decision or a guarantee.

How to read each inspection point

An unavailable check has its own status and reason. It is not displayed as a pass.

In order
No corresponding finding was identified within the actual inspection scope.
Noteworthy
An observation is recorded with its reason and significance for the next step.
Defect
An identified defect is described and its significance assessed.
Not inspected
This check was not carried out; its reason is recorded.
Not accessible
The area could not be reached or assessed; the limitation is identified.
Not applicable
The point does not apply to the vehicle or specific check; the reason is explained.
Fictional sample – report excerpt

These two entries are fictional. They do not come from a customer inspection and are not a complete report.

  • Visible brake discs and pads assessed

    Defect · Critical

    Observation: The front-right brake disc is heavily worn. Further check: A workshop inspection is required before further use.

  • Underbody access and inspection limits documented

    Not accessible

    Reason: No lift or inspection pit was available; only areas visible from the side were inspected. Areas outside that view were not assessed.

The sample notes are shown in the available languages. Free-text notes in the report are reproduced as recorded during the inspection.

Service information from KFZ Wedding, based on our inspection sheet. Questions about the inspection scope?

Prepare your follow-up questions

Clarify open questions from the report

Choose the situation that fits. These questions connect a documented point with its source, the evidence still needed or a possible further check.

A statement still needs evidence
  • Who provided the statement, and where is it recorded?
  • Which available document relates to this particular vehicle and statement?
  • What remains open without that evidence?
A finding leaves a question open
  • Which inspection point and observation does my question concern?
  • What does the report already answer, and what remains open?
  • What additional information or agreed further check could clarify the open question?
An item could not be checked
  • What reason is documented for this inspection point?
  • What condition or access was missing?
  • What arrangements need to be agreed for a possible further check?

Record your own follow-up question

Put the relevant question into your personal notes and complete these five lines. Choose the timing according to when you need clarification for your own decision.

My report reference: [Inspection point, page or described area]
My open question: [What do I still want to understand or clarify?]
Evidence or further check needed: [What information or check is still missing?]
Contact person: [Who do I discuss the next step with?]
My decision timing: [When do I need clarification for my decision?]

Ready to print

Documents prepared for your vehicle viewing

Business-to-consumer purchase agreement

PDF in Deutsch

Download PDF

Direct comparison

Which package fits your purchase?

This overview shows the main differences. Full scope is available on each package page.

Online listing check€29
Inspection place
Online
Physical vehicle inspection
No
Vehicle lift
No
OBD where possible
No
In-depth measurements
No
Documented result
Analysis
VIN / vehicle data
Assess listing details
Guidance for the buyer
Listing, open questions and next inspection step
Online listing check
Mobile car check€200€9950 % off
Inspection place
Vehicle location
Physical vehicle inspection
Yes
Vehicle lift
No
OBD where possible
Yes
In-depth measurements
Basic
Documented result
Inspection report
VIN / vehicle data
Compare accessible VIN and supplied documents
Guidance for the buyer
Inspection report and on-site discussion
Mobile car check
Car Check Plus€300€14950 % off
Inspection place
Vehicle location
Physical vehicle inspection
Yes
Vehicle lift
No
OBD where possible
Yes
In-depth measurements
Extended
Documented result
Extended report
VIN / vehicle data
VIN query and comparison
Guidance for the buyer
Fit for your needs and whether it is worth buying
Car Check Plus

Frequently asked

What matters before your appointment

Clear answers help you choose the right package and prepare the vehicle appointment.

Does the seller need to attend the car check?

Not necessarily. Access to the vehicle, required keys and permission for the agreed checks or test drive matter. Buyer and seller may both attend if they wish.

Is there a lift for a mobile car check?

No. On mobile visits we inspect accessible areas with OBD, measuring equipment and tools. Choose the workshop check for the benefit of a lift.

Is a test drive always included?

Only when permitted, practical and acceptable with regard to registration and road safety. Otherwise we document the limitation.

Does a car check find every defect?

No. Hidden, intermittent or non-visible defects may remain without dismantling. The report clearly states the scope and visible limits.

Ready for more clarity?

Choose the car check that fits your next step.

Booking asks only for the information needed by your chosen inspection route. The order becomes binding only after the complete summary and your express confirmation.

Book a car checkCall us