Can I get my car checked out for free?

daisykinn1

It's starting to shudder & cut out when in a jam. I've decided that it's best that I sell it. Could I take it to the garage to see how much the problem is the fix for free? I want to be as honest as possible to the new buyer or possibly just sell it for parts if it's really bad!

Sorry if there is an obvious answer I only tend to go the garage for the MOT.

anewman

Could be either a problem with the clutch, gears, or possibly the engine management system or oxygen/lambda sensor. Although note I am not a mechanic.

Chances are the problem won't be too expensive to sort out - but I would just take it to a garage and ask their advice. I have no idea if anywhere will check it out for free.

If you only take your car to the garage for an MOT and the oil has not been changed in over a year it could be that a build up of sludge in the engine is causing problems too.

joey_2

Yes you can get it looked at for an opinion on what's wrong for free. This is what I was told by a mechanic friend just the other day 'cos I was also worried about a garage charging me just to look at it. I just went along to the garage and asked if there was anyone free to have a look at my car/drive it round the block and tell me what was wrong. Then I asked them to write it down so I could tell my oh and get him to phone them (I didn't, got friend to do it!)

daisykinn1

joey wrote: »

Yes you can get it looked at for an opinion on what's wrong for free. This is what I was told by a mechanic friend just the other day 'cos I was also worried about a garage charging me just to look at it. I just went along to the garage and asked if there was anyone free to have a look at my car/drive it round the block and tell me what was wrong. Then I asked them to write it down so I could tell my oh and get him to phone them (I didn't, got friend to do it!)

Yes exactly, if it's cheap then I'll agree to have it fixed but if it's a big chunk then I'm selling it as it is. The MOT and Tax are due in the next couple of months. I want to pay off my debts, I just feel like I'm pouring money into it at the moment.

highguyuk

Places like Nationwide AutoCentres also do free 16 point checks over the car - and most other garages will just give you a free quote.

I'd advice anyone to sign up NationwideAutoCentres email distribution list. Lots of offers and vouchers etc always being sent out!