A mobile mechanic vehicle safety check is very similar to a pre-MOT inspection, but it can be done at any time, not just before an MOT. It’s especially useful for:

• Long road trips
• Seasonal checks (e.g. winter or summer prep)
• Buying or selling a vehicle
• General peace of mind if the vehicle hasn’t been inspected in a while

 

When buying a car it can be daunting to know that many UK Cars Have a Hidden History.

Odometer Fraud (“Clocking”)

• 6% of active vehicles exhibit mileage discrepancies between MOT tests, per 2023 data—implying approximately 2–2.6 million vehicles on UK roads may be clocked. These figures derive from studies conducted by Rapid Car Check and others
• About 2.1% of used cars sold in a 12-month period show signs of tampering—equating to roughly 160,000 clocked vehicles changing hands annually in the UK
• CarVertical estimates that clocking costs UK buyers over £700–800 million each year

 

Other Hidden Histories

From RAC history checks on over 32,000 UK cars:

• 52% had some questionable history flagged:
• 27.5% with plate changes
• 17.6% still under finance agreement
• 14.2% had been insurance write-offs
• Smaller shares were reported stolen, scrapped, or had colour changes

 

What’s Included in a Mobile Vehicle Safety Check?

While offerings may vary slightly between mechanics, a standard mobile safety check will usually include inspection of:

Exterior & Lights

• Headlights, indicators, brake lights, reverse lights
• Number plate lights and reflectors
• Windscreen wipers & washers
• Windscreen condition and visibility

Tyres & Wheels

• Tread depth (min 1.6mm legal)
• Tyre pressure
• Sidewall damage/cracks
• Spare tyre (if applicable)

Brakes & Suspension

• Visual check of brake pads, discs, and brake fluid level
• Suspension components (springs, shock absorbers, bushings)
• Steering linkage condition

Under the Bonnet

• Engine oil level and condition
• Coolant/antifreeze
• Power steering fluid
• Battery condition & terminals
• Drive belts

Exhaust System

• Visual check for leaks or corrosion
• Smoke output (excessive smoke or color could indicate issues)

 Interior

• Seat belts (operation and condition)
• Horn
• Dashboard warning lights
• Heating and demisters

Optional Extras:

• • OBD fault code scan
  • Outstanding HPI report.
  • Vehicle Identity Check
  • Vehicle History Check
  • Battery health test

• Full written report with advisory notes