Frequently Asked Questions
Buying a used car can raise a lot of questions, especially if you're unsure what to look for. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about Car Wingman inspections and how the service works.
If you can't find what you're looking for, feel free to get in touch.
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Yes. Used cars can have hidden issues that aren’t obvious during a quick viewing. A professional inspection helps identify potential problems before you commit to buying, which can save you from expensive repairs later.
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A Car Wingman inspection focuses on the vehicle’s mechanical condition, visible wear and damage, and general signs of maintenance.
Depending on the service chosen, inspections may include:
• Exterior and interior checks
• Mechanical component inspection
• Signs of accident damage or poor repairs
• Road test where possible
• Diagnostic scan where possible
• Professional advice on whether the car appears worth buying -
Yes. With the Purchase Companion and Full Pre-Purchase Inspection services, I attend the viewing with you and carry out the inspection on site.
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Yes. Inspections can be carried out at private sellers, dealerships, or other agreed locations where the vehicle is being viewed.
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Yes. If you’re travelling to view a vehicle, a Car Wingman inspection can be arranged to take place during the viewing so the vehicle can be assessed before you make a decision.
If you’re unsure whether a car is worth travelling to see, the Pre-Purchase Listing Review service can help analyse the advert and vehicle history first.
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No inspection can guarantee that a vehicle is completely fault-free. Used cars can develop issues over time and some problems may not be visible during a viewing.
However, a professional inspection significantly reduces the risk of unexpected problems by identifying visible faults, warning signs and poor maintenance before you buy.
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Yes. If issues or potential repairs are identified during the inspection, this information can often be used to support price negotiations with the seller.
Many buyers recover the cost of the inspection through successful negotiation or by avoiding a vehicle with expensive hidden problems.
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Car Wingman inspections are currently available across Kent, London and surrounding areas.
If the vehicle is located outside this region, feel free to get in touch before booking and I’ll confirm whether travel is possible.
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This depends on the service selected.
• Listing Review – usually completed within 24 hours
• Purchase Companion – typically around 45–60 minutes during the viewing
• Full Pre-Purchase Inspection – usually around 60–90 minutes depending on the vehicle -
Yes. You should arrange the viewing time with the seller first. Once confirmed, you can book the inspection so I can attend at the agreed time.
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A listing review is a professional assessment of a vehicle advert before you travel to view it.
The service looks at:
• Advert details and photos
• Vehicle history information
• Common issues with the make and model
• Potential warning signsYou’ll receive advice on whether the car appears worth viewing, negotiating on, or avoiding.
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Listing reviews are usually completed within 24 hours, often sooner.
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If issues are identified during the inspection, we will explain what they are, how serious they may be, and whether they could affect the vehicle’s value or reliability.
You can then decide whether to proceed, negotiate the price, or walk away.
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We provide honest, independent advice based on the vehicle’s condition and what is observed during the inspection.
The final decision always remains with you, but the goal is to help you make a confident and informed choice.
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If you're unsure which inspection is right for your situation, feel free to get in touch before booking. I’ll be happy to recommend the most suitable option.