Vehicle Inspection Services

When purchasing or selling a classic car, knowledge is power. An inspection ensures you understand the vehicle’s condition and authenticity before making a significant investment. At Basseille Classics, our classic car inspection service provides you with the transparency and confidence you need to make the right decision.

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Inspections limit your risk. We will confirm whether its general condition tallies with the description and if the vehicle is worth the price you are planning on paying.

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Inspection Process

Our inspections aim to give you a good overall view of the vehicle's condition. Should you require a more in-depth view, we can advise on trusted mechanics to inspect to car.

1

High-Resolution Imagery & Video

  • Key details such as paintwork, engine bay, undercarriage & interior condition.

  • We don't document every single detail, but aim to give you a general idea of the car's condition.

2

Exterior & Bodywork Inspection

  • Rust or corrosion beneath paintwork.

  • Body filler, resprays, or improper restoration.

  • Panel gaps for originality and proper alignment.

  • Visible structural repairs or accident damage.

3

Basic Mechanical Inspection

  • Engine’s performance & responsiveness.

  • Transmission, clutch, & gearbox functionality.

  • Suspension, steering & brakes for wear.

  • In-depth mechanical testing not included and can be done through a mechanic at an additional charge.

4

Interior Condition & Features

  • Condition of upholstery, dashboard, and trim.

  • Functionality of gauges, switches & electronics.

  • Moisture damage, leaks, or worn-out components.

  • We do not verify originality.

5

Paperwork Verification

  • If the seller has the paperwork on hand, we do our best to review the information.

  • Ensure legal ownership and cross-reference engine & VIN numbers if they are available.

  • ‍We do not verify the vehicle’s history.

6

Road Test (Where Applicable)

  • Assessing driving dynamics & handling

  • Unusual noises, vibrations, or performance issues

  • Braking efficiency and suspension response

7

Inspection Call Back

  • We give you a call on the spot.

  • Full run down whilst carrying out the inspection.

  • We do not supply a written report.

Why a Classic Car Inspection Matters

Unfortunately, hidden issues such as undisclosed repairs, rust damage, or improper restorations can turn a dream purchase into a costly mistake.

Mechanical Reliability

Avoid costly repairs by identifying obvious wear and tear or potential mechanical failures.
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Structural Integrity

Detect any visible proof of previous accidents, rust damage, or modifications that affect the car’s value.
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Investment Protection

Make a confident purchase decision backed by expert analysis.
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Why Choose Us for a Classic Car Inspection?

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1

Unmatched Expertise

With years of experience in the classic car industry, we understand the nuances that define a vehicle’s true value.

2

Attention to Detail

We go ensure every detail is scrutinized for authenticity and condition.

3

Trusted by Collectors & Enthusiasts

Our reputation for transparency and integrity makes us the preferred choice for buyers, sellers, and collectors.

4

Convenience & Nationwide Coverage

We offer inspection services throughout South Africa and internationally upon request.

Secure Storage

If your classic car needs to be stored before or after transport, we offer secure storage solutions at our Edenvale facility.

  • Secure, dedicated bays

  • Biometric access & surveillance

  • On-site power outlets

Storage
Reserve a space
A covered car parked in secure basement storage

Customer Testimonials

Great service, communication is on point, knowledgeable and best part is that they are car enthusiasts who care just as much as you care about your car. Highly recommend!
Devin Beattie
This company is 10/10 Sulli makes everything so easy. I had our first car shipped through this company and I was so nervous but Sulli made the whole process easy and put me at ease, he constantly kept in communication with me and was always ready to answer any questions I had.
Beth Long
Sulli - has been an absolute pleasure to work with. He is professional, honest and always has my best interest in mind, complimented by his high standards makes him fantastic to work with.
Harold Earls IV
Awesome service from Basseille Classics, highly reccommend them!
Pitzi
The level of professionalism received from Basseille Classics has been mind blowing. Sullivan and his team are quick, efficient, thorough, knowledgeable, ethical and friendly. Dealing with them has made my export process a dream!
Glenn Bouwer
I dealt with this company quit a few time and the service is always been top notch, so for anyone that will need the services that they offer this is the company to go with.
Eddie De Ascencao

Vehicle Inspections FAQs

What does the vehicle inspection include?

Our classic car inspection covers an overall visual assessment. We inspect the vehicle's exterior for any damage or repairs, check its overall mechanical condition (gear linkages, etc.), and review the vehicle’s paperwork if accessible to ensure everything is in order. We also provide high-resolution photos and videos for your reference. The inspection does not include in-depth mechanical testing or a written report.

Do I need to be present for the inspection?

You can be if you wish. We can also conduct the inspection on your behalf and provide you with all necessary documentation, including high-quality photos and videos. If you wish, we will also call you during the inspection to give you a live rundown of our findings.

How long does an inspection take?

A vehicle inspection normally takes us an hour and depends on the client's requirements and the vehicles condition. If we get there and the car is clearly not what the client is after, we take a few pics and tell him its a no! If the car has loads to document such as scratches, marks then we will spend longer on the car.

What’s the difference between a visual car inspection and a mechanical inspection?

A visual inspection focuses on the car's exterior, bodywork, and overall appearance, checking for dents, rust, paint resprays, previous accident damage and overall mechanical condition. A mechanical inspection looks at the engine, suspension, transmission, and other critical parts to ensure the vehicle is in good working order. Take note that we only do general, visual car inspections. If required, we can send the vehicle to a mechanical specialist or a paint specialist if we need more thorough information.

What if the car is located in another city or country?

We have done car inspection across South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. Take note that we charge more to cover travel costs.