AA Vehicle Appraisal Report

What an AA Vehicle Appraisal Report covers

With an appraisal inspection, you'll have the assurance of a full, independent vehicle check, carried out by the experts.

Brakes
During the AA Vehicle Inspection Report process we check your brakes a second time (the first occurs during the Vehicle Compliance Certification). This is done without dismantling brake components. The main assessment of these components is performance based and is done during road testing.

Cooling System
We externally examine the radiator, hoses, pump, fan and belt, engine cylinder head and block, for signs of deterioration and leakage. The radiator pressure cap is visually inspected for corrosion and damage. In some cases, we may not be able to examine all external components because they may inaccessible or hidden from view.

Electrical and Ancillary Equipment
We check electrical items for operation and performance. We examine general wiring condition for safety and security.

Engine and Associated Equipment
We access the engine condition by external inspection, instrument checks, listening for characteristic noises from the internal components, road test performance and assessment of wear and tear. Compression tests are usually conducted electronically using a relative compression measuring device. We inspect the condition of the air cleaner element (where accessible). We also externally examine the condition and operation of the fuel delivery system; its associated control functions are assessed via road testing.

Exhaust System
During the AA Vehicle Inspection Report process we check your exhaust system a second time (the first occurs during the Vehicle Compliance Certification). We check the exhaust system for signs of leakage, impact damage, security of mountings and advanced corrosion. Exhaust gas leakage is checked while the engine is running.

Noises
Modern vehicles are constructed using lightweight components and some models have characteristic noises. When these noises are particularly noticeable, we will mention this on the report. We will also note whether or not we consider the noise level to be typical of the model. It is not unusual in some modern vehicles to encounter some operational noises. These are sometimes noticeable only within a certain road speed range and may be quite characteristic of the model. Such a noise may not indicate abnormal wear and is generally referred to as a "period noise". Unless the report states otherwise, a period noise will not usually affect the durability of the final drive assembly and rectification may not be required.

Oil Consumption
This assessment is based on visual signs only. All vehicles undergo a full mechanical service at the time of Safety Certification and Appraisal.

Suspension and Steering
We check the suspension and steering components (including chassis and sub-frame components). Ball joints and bushes are checked for signs of excessive free play and damage to rubber protective boots; shock absorbers for damage, mounting security and signs of oil leakage. The operation of the steering system is checked for signs of binding, free play or harshness, and road tested for abnormal steering characteristics. Any power assistance components are checked for fluid leakage, external condition of the pump and drive belt, and their security of mounting.

Transmission
We externally examine the transmission system for signs of oil leakage and excessive wear. Driveline joints are checked for signs of wear and driveline components for excessive noise or run-out.

Tyres and Wheels
During the AA Vehicle Inspection Report process we check your Tyres and Wheels a second time (the first occurs during the Vehicle Compliance Certification). All tyres are examined for signs of damage, compliance, mismatching and excessive or abnormal wear. Wheels are examined for damage, corrosion and security of mounting.

Miscellaneous Accessories and Equipment
Tape and CD players are not tested. Computerised factory equipment is not tested due to the requirement of specialised factory test equipment. Any fitted accessories (e.g. radar detector, cell phone) are not included in the examination. Air conditioning, where fitted, is checked for its operation, security of components and level of refrigerant as viewed through the system sight glass.

Road Test
We assess the vehicle's overall performance and driveability under normal operating conditions. Operation of the vehicle's mechanical components is assessed, including engine and transmission performance, noise, steering, suspension and brakes.

Summary
For your peace of mind we are proud to stand behind all of our vehicles. With over 40 years experience in the motor industry we are proud to be in partnership with the Automobile Association