When should I pay for a mechanical inspection on a car I'm looking to buy?

I am looking to buy a used car, and am unsure about when, during the process, is best to pay for an independent mechanical inspection (such as offered by the RAC or AA). Of course, I would like to only pay for this, if I am sure I want to buy the car.

If I go to test drive a car and decide to buy it (and want to stop anyone else from doing so in the few days it would take to get the report), can I ask the dealer to consider it 'sold subject to independent mechanical inspection'? Should I have to put any money down (i.e. a deposit or the full price) to do this (and is there a risk I wouldn't get my money back if something showed up wrong?

Or can I ask them to reserve it and then only pay once the report comes through?

Asked on 15 November 2012 by behind_blue_eyes_83

Answered by Honest John

That's a problem. If you want the dealer to keep the car for you then you have to make a non-refundable deposit, otherwise you run the risk of paying the RAC to come out and inspect it only to find that the car has been sold.

Tags: rac buying buying a used car deposit garage damage vehicle inspections aa

Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:

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