UCQ (Used Car Qualification) | Outside Lane | The alternative car buying service

UCQ (Used Car Qualification)

Purchasing a used car can be a very daunting experience. Not only is it one of the most expensive purchases you are likely to make in your lifetime but there are also many risks when buying a second hand vehicle. At present there isn’t a kite mark for used car quality neither is there an OFT approved code that specifically relates to the purchase of used cars.

Outside Lane we are working closely with a number of governing bodies in an attempt to regulate the used car market and provide you with a recognised mark of quality and peace of mind.

To this extend we have produced our own mark of quality which we indeed to seek governing and trade body approval from.

Until we do, we have specifically included some key elements within our UCQ process that you will be familiar with such as an MOT.

What you can expect

When purchasing a used car it is important to understand what condition the vehicle should be in. At Outside Lane we like to advise our clients that you can still expect your used vehicle to be in a great condition. Just because the vehicle might be two years old with 30,000 miles it shouldn't mean you have to accept a car in a poor condition.

Equally it is important to understand that your used car isn't likely to come with brand new tyres and we neither can we promise immaculate bodywork. We've put together some images so you can see what we class as acceptable and unacceptable.

Acceptable

Not acceptable

Alloy wheels will be free from scuffs.

The interior will be free from burns, tears and any significant defects as demonstrated in the image to the left.

Vehicles will be free from any significant scratches and dents, however in some instances some exceptionally small paint chips might be present in which case we will notify you on delivery.

You can expect your next used vehicle to have roadworthy tyres. Given that we purchase the car at trade price, offering you great savings, we cannot offer fitting of brand new tyres, however this is an additional request you can make.

Simply tell us when placing an order for your next used car.

UCQ checklist

Every used vehicle that is supplied in accordance of UCQ will undergo over 140 different checks. We strongly advise that you request a copy of the UCQ prior to accepting your next used car. The list is comprehensive and will include all references relating to the HPI and MOT elements.

Download a sample checklist »

UCQ explained

Our Used Car Qualification stamp includes 5 specific areas of inspection and approval

Acquisition appraisal

Understanding the authenticity of a vehicle prior to purchase is essential to avoid any further risks. Purchase a 'lemon' and you will have numerous problems further down the line. In some cases, purchasing a vehicle that isn't what it say's on the tin can invalid warranties, HPI checks and indeed your insurance. In the worst cases you might even loose you money if the vehicle has been stolen.

HPI

Only HPI covers you against buying:

A car with outstanding finance
A car reported as stolen with the Police
An insurance write off
A cloned car

The unique HPI £30,000 Guarantee* means you're covered!

Vehicle preparation

If you are purchasing a used vehicle you can expect the vehicle to be prepared to a certain condition. While the vehicle is a used car any seller carrying the UCQ mark will guarantee the vehicle will be in a retail condition. This means a full valet will have been undertaken vehicle. This should be a first class valet. The tyres will also be polished and the vehicle is not carry any unexplained odours.

MOT

All used vehicles being sold under the UCQ mark will have undertaken and passed an MOT ensuring the vehicle is roadworthy and conforms with regulation stating used vehicles must be "fit for purpose".

Warranty

All vehicles sold under the UCQ mark will carry a minimum of 3months warranty. This warranty will either be the balance of the manufacturers warranty or a third party warranty that has an unlimited claim limit.