The initial phone estimate
When you call, we ask for your registration, current mileage, postcode and an honest description of the condition. We use live market data — the same databases used by main dealers and auction houses — to establish a current market value for your specific vehicle.
The figure we give on the phone is an estimate based on what you tell us. It is subject to the in-person inspection confirming what was described.
What we check on arrival
When we visit, we carry out a structured assessment covering:
- Bodywork: all panels, bumpers, glass, lights and trim for damage or repairs
- Interior: seats, dashboard, carpet, headlining and all controls
- Mechanical: engine start and running, oil level and condition, coolant, gearbox operation
- Tyres: tread depth and condition on all four corners
- Electrics: all windows, mirrors, air conditioning, infotainment and warning lights
- Underneath: visible corrosion, fluid leaks and exhaust condition
- History check: HPI check for outstanding finance, write-off markers and mileage discrepancies
Factors that increase the offer
- Full or extensive service history with stamps
- Clean, unrepaired bodywork
- Low mileage relative to age
- Both original keys present
- Current MOT with no advisories
- Popular colour — black, white, grey, silver
- High specification with desirable options
Factors that reduce the offer
- No service history
- Bodywork damage, dents, scratches or poorly repaired panels
- Warning lights on the dashboard
- Worn tyres requiring immediate replacement
- Missing keys
- Outstanding finance (we settle this but it reduces what we pay you directly)
- Accident or write-off markers on the history check
Why the in-person offer might differ from the estimate
If the car is significantly different from what was described — more damage, undisclosed faults or a mileage discrepancy — the offer will be adjusted. We explain any changes clearly and give you the opportunity to accept or decline with no pressure either way.
We will never lowball on arrival
Some buyers make a high estimate on the phone and then dramatically reduce the offer when they arrive. We do not operate this way. Our in-person offer is based on what we actually find — and if the car is as described, the offer will be consistent with the estimate.