What does a good overall inspection score look like?

A score above 80 out of 100 generally indicates a well-maintained car. Between 65 and 80 means there are items needing attention but the car is usable. Below 65 suggests significant issues that should be priced in or cause you to walk away.

What paint thickness reading is normal vs a red flag?

Factory original paint typically reads 80 to 180 microns. A reading above 220 microns indicates a respray — the panel was likely repaired after damage. Above 400 microns means heavy filler was applied over significant damage.

Can I use the inspection report to negotiate the price?

Absolutely. The report gives you documented, expert-backed findings that the seller cannot dismiss. Present the specific items and their repair costs as the basis for a price reduction.

How to Read a Car Inspection Report — Guide for UAE Buyers

An inspection report records the condition of a used car across hundreds of check points. Knowing how to read one means you can act on the findings — negotiate, walk away or buy with confidence.

Receiving an inspection report is the point at which you go from buying on instinct to buying on facts. But a report is only useful if you know what to look for. Whether you receive a report from INSPECTMOTORS or from any other inspection service, the same principles apply.

The first thing to look for is the overall condition score or rating. Most professional inspection reports assign a score or grade to the car's overall condition. At INSPECTMOTORS we use a 0–100 Car Score weighted across categories. A score above 80 generally indicates a well-maintained car. A score below 65 suggests significant issues that need attention or negotiation.

Next, focus on the category-level findings rather than trying to read every single check point in detail. The categories that matter most in the UAE are: Engine and Transmission, Paint and Body, Structural Integrity, Electrical, and Air Conditioning. Any 'fail' or 'major concern' finding in these categories warrants a closer read of the specific item and its estimated repair cost.

Paint thickness readings are unique to good inspection reports and one of the most important outputs. The report will list each panel with a reading in microns. Factory original paint is typically between 80 and 180 microns. A panel reading above 220 microns has almost certainly been resprayed — and a reading above 400 microns indicates heavy filler was applied. This tells you where the car was damaged and repaired, regardless of whether it appears in any database.

The photo evidence is your verification. Every finding of consequence should be supported by a photo in the report. Resprayed panels, oil leaks, worn tyres, cracked components — all should be visible. A report without photo evidence for its findings is significantly less trustworthy.

Finally, use the findings for negotiation, not just as a pass or fail gate. Even a car with a good score has items that can be negotiated. The inspection report is your documented, expert-backed justification for adjusting the price — something the seller cannot simply dismiss.

Key Points

Start with the overall score and category-level findings before diving into individual check points.
Paint thickness readings tell you where the car was repaired regardless of official records.
Every significant finding should be supported by photo evidence — no photo means no proof.
Use the findings as negotiation leverage, not just a pass/fail decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a good overall inspection score look like?: A score above 80 out of 100 generally indicates a well-maintained car. Between 65 and 80 means there are items needing attention but the car is usable. Below 65 suggests significant issues that should be priced in or cause you to walk away.
What paint thickness reading is normal vs a red flag?: Factory original paint typically reads 80 to 180 microns. A reading above 220 microns indicates a respray — the panel was likely repaired after damage. Above 400 microns means heavy filler was applied over significant damage.
Can I use the inspection report to negotiate the price?: Absolutely. The report gives you documented, expert-backed findings that the seller cannot dismiss. Present the specific items and their repair costs as the basis for a price reduction.

How to Read an Inspection Report

Key Points

Frequently Asked Questions