Independent Inspection Services - RAC AA others?

[Joss Apps]

In the process of buying a used Cali but before I spend some well earned cash I want to get an independent inspection. RAC and AA appear to be just under £200 and look ok but neither appear to offer any warranty. Has anyone got any recommendations or advice? Thanks Joss

 

[sebking]

that's a tricky question. The AA and RAC will be able to view the standard T5 stuff but maybe not the habitation side, and indeed some bad press recently for the service they offer. The Cali is not your average Van. It may be better taking it to a local garage for a view, or VW specialist.

Tell us some more about the Cali, how old, service history, model, mileage etc and I'll give some pointers. You can make a good effort yourself on the habitation side, be prepared for a good couple of hours work though!

 

[choplee]

Totally right for a normal van/car I'm sure they are good at the oily bits ,but to be honest I'd try and see if there's anyone on the forum local to you that you could tempt them with a cake or 2 to maybe have a look for you or take a mechanic along for a cheaper price to check out the oily parts for you ... The Cali indeed is slightly out of the norm and most will be very well cared for and are honest with telling you issues

 

[sebking]

if you pm me a moby number happy to chat about your purchase

 

[Stu]

Cake you say?? :mrgreen:

 

[Californiaman]

I've used the RAC in the past and whilst they were very thorough, they didn't tell me anything that I couldn't see myself with a good look.

I agree with the guys above that most RAC/AA inspectors won't have a clue beyond the normal van stuff.

Who is the seller, is there warranty?

You could ask for it to be inspected by a VW dealer that is knowledgable about the Cali and/or as suggested, see if there is a local Cali owner that can have a look at it with you and check that everything works. Or even an independant local caravan/motorhome specialist.

When spending such a large amount of £ (especially on a vehicle out of warranty) I would suggest do all of the above!

With a vehicle like this, the overall condition will be a great indication of how it has been card for. If you are buying from a private seller, ask to see their photo collections that would be interesting to see if the van was a loved member of the family!

 

[choplee]

Cake you say?? :mrgreen:

A good brew and loads of cakey

 

[SimplyDubs]

Used AA a few time whilst looking for my T4...

Have to say they were very variable... One excellent... the other completely useless.

I actually placed a deposit based on their inspection of one van... feed back was that it was "the best he'd seen" and was excellent for the age and mileage. No issues.

Travelling 250 miles to pick up the van, it was mechanically a heap. Dodgy auto box that had such vibration in top that it drowned out the stereo. Moss growing inside the van... ugly... very ugly.

Very disappointed and the come back from the AA was that the mechanical issues could have developed since they inspected the van. So... deposit lost, and cost of 500 mile round trip.

it actually turns out that they frequently don't use their own engineers but "associated" engineers close to the location. As such there appears to be little quality control.

The other thing worth noting is that on a California they will only carry out a "Van Inspection" which is mechanical and electrical, exterior bodywork only. they do no inspection on the interior or trim items. (Although you do speak direct to the engineer and you may be able to get an opinion"

Much better if you can get a trusted party locally to help view.

The AA inspection does provide some protection if you also have a full identity check but still provides no warranty at all.

HTH

Mark

 

[Joss Apps]

Thank you all for your help, I've completed an HPi Check which includes a £30k warranty against theft, written off etc). AA/RAC inspection asap and then consider buying a motorhome warranty. Covers all bases except the camper interior.
Joss