Know the car before you buy it

Independent mobile inspections for private buyers of used cars in Dublin. From €150.

Our senior inspector has over 30 years' experience inspecting and diagnosing cars of all makes and models. We come to the car, check it properly and give you a report you can view online.

Dublin area: €150 petrol or diesel, €180 hybrid, €250 fully electric. Other areas on request.

  • 30+ years inspecting and diagnosing cars
  • From €150 in the Dublin area
  • Expert advice to help you buy right

Why get an inspection?

Most buyers can't see what's wrong with a used car. Clocked mileage, hidden accident damage and electrical faults are common, and easy to miss.

  • Clocked mileage.

    The number on the dash isn't always the real one.

  • Accident damage.

    A good repair can hide a bad history.

  • Electrical faults.

    Repairs can run to thousands, and warning lights don't always tell the story.

  • Poor repair work.

    A car can look right and still be wrong underneath.

Truly independent

We do no repair or maintenance work. We never make work for the mechanic, so you get an honest report.

How it works

  1. Call us.

    Phone or WhatsApp. Tell us the car and where it is.

  2. We inspect the car.

    Our inspector goes to the car and checks it over. Come along if you like, or leave it to us and we will report back.

  3. Read your report.

    View it online, whenever you need it. The printed report has a QR code that links straight to it. If you decide to buy, we can advise you on getting the best deal.

What we check

A full inspection of the car you are thinking of buying.

Mechanical

  • Engine performance
  • Gearbox
  • Clutch
  • Brakes
  • Suspension
  • Oil

Body and electronics

  • Accident damage
  • Electronics

Diagnostics

  • Engine management
  • Emissions
  • Airbags
  • ABS

View an inspection report

Every Dublin Diagnostics report can be viewed online. Buying a car that we have inspected? Check its report here.

Open the report viewer
The orange and black “DD Inspected” wrench sticker

Smart tips for buying a used car

  1. Get an independent check. In Ireland it's buyer beware. A private sale gives you little come-back.
  2. Don't ask a friend. A friend looks for faults, not for what's right, and you may fall out if the car is a dud.
  3. Be wary of a service book. Stamps can be forged and a stamp doesn't prove the work was done. Treat it as a guide only.
  4. Don't trust the clock alone. Check the mileage against wear, history and diagnostics.
  5. Don't assume a higher price means a better car. Price is not proof of condition.
  6. View the car at the seller's home. Make sure the car is registered to that address, and bring no more than a deposit.
  7. Walk away when something feels wrong. There is always another car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does an inspection cost?

In the Dublin area: €150 for a petrol or diesel car, €180 for a hybrid and €250 for a fully electric car. Outside Dublin, we agree the price with you before booking, as it depends on travel time and fuel.

Where do you inspect the car?

We come to the car. We are based in Dublin and can travel further afield on request. Just call and we will agree a price first.

Do I need to be there?

No. You are welcome to come along and see the inspection for yourself. If you cannot make it, we will inspect the car without you and report back.

Can you help me get a good price?

Yes. If you decide to buy, we can advise you on the price and what to raise with the seller, to help you get the best deal.

How do I book?

Call 085 282 0010 or send us a WhatsApp message. There is no online booking.

Do you fix cars?

No. We do no repair or maintenance work, so our report is independent.

How can I see my report?

Every report can be viewed online. The printed report has a QR code that links to it, or you can use the report viewer.

Book your inspection

Call or message us to book.

Phone
085 282 0010
WhatsApp
Message us
Email
info@dublindiagnostics.com
Coverage
Dublin area. Further afield on request, with the price agreed before booking.