What Does CarExamer Consider a Good Used Car?
Discover what CarExamer defines as a good used car. Learn the key standards for vehicle condition, health checks, transparency, and warranties to ensure a reliable and trustworthy purchase. Buying a used car should be a positive experience for everyone involved, but let’s be honest—it can feel like a gamble and hard work. At CarExamer, we believe that trust and transparency are the keys to changing that. That’s why we’ve created a Used Car Standard: a clear, fair guide for dealers and buyers to ensure every car meets high-quality expectations.
Whether you’re buying or selling, here’s what we think defines a “good” used car and why it’s a win for everyone.
A Fair Approach to Used Cars
Let’s start with the basics: we think it’s fair for buyers to expect a used car to last at least two years without needing major repairs on things like tires, brake pads, or discs. Sure, every car needs maintenance, but it shouldn’t come as a surprise right after driving off the lot.
A good used car isn’t just the buyer’s responsibility—it’s the dealer’s too. Dealers should:
- Make sure the car is in satisfactory condition.
- Explain any potential issues to the buyer.
- Offer an extended warranty for peace of mind.
At CarExamer, our focus is on transparency—ensuring buyers know exactly what they’re getting and dealers can confidently stand behind their cars.
What Makes a Good Used Car According to CarExamer?
To meet CarExamer’s standards, a car should pass several checks and meet key requirements:
1. Expected condition
Every car should undergo a thorough health check to make sure it’s roadworthy. Here’s what you should expect from car sellers trade of private for vehicles on market value:
- Tyres 5mm min (no age-related cracks), both car keys, timing belt replaced if due or no evidence of replacement or replacement according to Autodata guide or manufacturers guide, fair wear and tear on brake discs and pads min 60% left on friction material
- Vehicle free from oil leaks or coolant leaks
- Vehicles underside corrosion and suspension corrosion are explained
- Vehicle is free from any drivability issues and audible noise from the powertrain and suspension
- Vehicle should be fully road tested under heavy conditions to make sure vehicle is not developing driveability issues straight after the customer purchases the vehicle
- Vehicle described exactly as it is and what is not working on the vehicle
- Health check provided with the vehicle and include it as part of the sales contract
- All regular maintenance carried out Servicing completed before handover if required according to service history
- Describe visual bodywork condition accurately including any resprayed panels on the vehicle any runs in the preparation process and respray quality
- For insurance write-off vehicles – provide engineers report
- No fake service history records
- Advised on any major mechanical repair’s vehicle has had carried out
2. Road-Tested for Reliability
Every car should be road-tested in real-world conditions before being sold. This helps catch any potential issues before the buyer drives it home.
- The car should be tested under heavy driving conditions to ensure it won’t develop problems right after purchase.
- Any corrosion or suspension issues underneath the car should be fully explained.
- Describe visual bodywork condition accurately including any resprayed panels on the vehicle any runs in the preparation process and respray quality
3. Consumer Rights Compliance
It’s essential for dealers to comply with the Consumer Rights Act 2015, ensuring buyers are treated fairly. This includes:
- Providing an MOT valid for at least 6-12 months.
- Completing any required servicing before handover.
- Offering a clear and reasonable warranty that explains what’s covered.
- Explain exactly what is covered in your warranty period and include it in the sales agreement
- Follow obligations under the Consumer Rights Act 2015
- Welcome qualified IMI technician to inspect and road test the vehicle
- Vehicle is in satisfactory condition and fit for purpose
- Minimum of 6-12 months for MOT on all vehicles and annual servicing requirements
- Refundable deposit offered
Why This Standard Matters for Dealers
For car dealers, CarExamer’s Used Car Standard is more than a checklist—it’s a chance to elevate business.
1. Build Customer Trust
When buyers know your cars meet rigorous standards, they’re more likely to trust you and recommend your business to others. Clear descriptions and transparent practices reduce complaints and build loyalty.
2. Increase Team Confidence
A defined standard gives your entire team—from sales staff to mechanics—a clear guide to follow. This means everyone can confidently back the vehicles they sell.
3. Dispute Resolution Support
If a customer ever feels a car wasn’t accurately described, CarExamer can help mediate disputes, making life easier for both you and your buyer.
How This Helps Buyers
For buyers, CarExamer’s Used Car Standard offers peace of mind. Here’s how it benefits them:
- Confidence that the car is in good condition and accurately described.
- Transparent warranties that clearly explain what’s covered.
- The ability to verify the car’s condition post-purchase with an IMI-certified garage or a CarExamer inspection.
This transparency ensures buyers know exactly what they’re getting, reducing stress and eliminating unpleasant surprises.
Why Dealers Should Partner with CarExamer
Here’s what we offer to help dealers meet—and exceed—customer expectations:
- No Monthly Subscriptions: Signing up is free.
- Free Stock Check: We’ll evaluate your current inventory to ensure it meets the standard.
- Visibility: Your dealership gets listed on the CarExamer website, boosting your credibility and reach.
- Ongoing Support: You’ll receive regular insights, articles, and updates to keep your team informed and ahead of the curve.
Why It All Matters
CarExamer’s Used Car Standard isn’t just about selling cars—it’s about reshaping the used car industry. By setting clear expectations and focusing on transparency, we’re helping buyers and dealers build trust and confidence in every transaction.
When buyers know they’re getting a reliable car and dealers know they’ve done everything to ensure quality, everyone wins.
If you’re a dealer ready to take your business to the next level, partnering with CarExamer could be the smartest move you make. Let’s work together to create a better, more trusted used car market—one car at a time.
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