RAC Approved Preparation Standard

RAC 82-point Approved Vehicle Preparation Standard

The RAC 82-point Approved Preparation Standard is set by the RAC to ensure a consistent minimum level of vehicle preparation at all participating RAC Approved Dealers.

The Preparation Standard Includes:

Vehicle History

  • VIN Inspection
  • Vehicle History Report Obtained
  • Scheduled Maintenance Performed(inc timing belt)
  • Current MOT Certificate (if applicable)
  • Engine number check

Road Test

  • Cruise Control (if applicable)
  • Starting system, general performance and behaviour of the vehicle
  • Clutch, transmission, steering, suspension and brakes including A.B.S.
  • No evidence of abnormal noises
  • No visual fluid leaks after road test
  • Gauges operate properly
  • Check battery and starter motor start engine with ease from both hot and cold
  • Efficiency of parking brake
  • Check to ensure no excessive visual emissions from exhaust
  • Check no engine management lights are illuminated on test drive or when engine idling
  • Engine cooling fans operate at appropriate temperature

Vehicle Exterior

  • No dents that have either cracked paint or are larger than 50mm in diameter
  • Windscreen free from any damage that would exclude the vehicle from an MOT test
  • No signs of bodywork corrosion
  • Exterior mirrors
  • All structural body repairs/accident damage have been repaired using manufacturer approved methods
  • Ensure correct body panel fitting and alignment
  • Operation of fuel filler system including petrol caps and lever release system
  • Bonnet catch, safety catch, hinges, tailgate supports
  • Door locks and central locking including child safety locks
  • Exterior trim for security and correct fitment

Vehicle Interior

  • Wipers and washers
  • Visual and audible driver warning systems
  • Rear view mirror / sun visors
  • Parking assistance systems
  • Navigation System
  • Interior lights
  • Instruments, gauges and controls
  • Door windows (manual / electric)
  • Convertible roof mechanism (if applicable)
  • Audio and alarm systems
  • All internal equipment (e.g. cigarette lighters, sun visors, arms rests, etc)
  • All exterior lighting equipment and respective control lights and cluster illumination
  • Air-conditioning, heating and demist systems
  • Sunroof mechanism
  • Operation and condition of seatbelts / mountings
  • No evidence of water ingress
  • No interior trim / dashboard for tears, holes, burns or excessive soiling
  • Parcel shelf or tonneau cover if fitted
  • All warning lights operate correctly
  • All drive pedals operate correctly
  • SRS warning light functionality
  • Security of seat mountings, head rests and seat adjustment mechanism

Road Wheels & Tyre Checks

  • Minimum tread depth of 3mm across all tyres including spare
  • No evidence of uneven tyre wear or casing damage
  • Tyres have no cuts through to the casing, bulges and no evidence of temporary repairs
  • Road wheels are free from distortion, gouges or visible cracks

Engine Compartment

  • Carry out battery test & ensure terminals are secure & free from corrosion
  • Engine oil is correct level & dipstick oil sample is free from contamination
  • Coolant antifreeze content, & ensure system is free of visual contamination
  • Check vehicles charging system for minimum output
  • Gearbox fluid levels, manual or automatic are correct
  • All fluid levels are correct; e.g. brake, clutch, power steering, washer & battery
  • Auxiliary drive belts, condition & tension
  • Engine mountings for security & condition
  • Wiring, pipes, hoses, oil & fuel feed lines for routing; are free from damage, chafing & leaks (where visible)
  • No fluid leaks
  • Cooling system radiator & engine oil cooler/intercooler are free from damage or excessive corrosion
  • No evidence of undue engine noise

For Hybrid Vehicles

  • Hybrid cooling system
  • Hybrid power-train mount
  • Hybrid entertainment & information display

Underbody

  • Exhaust, mountings, clamps & check security of system
  • Exhaust gas leaks
  • Any fluid leaks from engine, drive train, fuel systems
  • Catalytic converter
  • Steering for leaks & security
  • Tie rod ends, CV joints, drive shafts & steering rack including books/covers
  • Front & rear Springs, Shock absorbers & mounting points
  • No visual evidence of faults to braking components
  • Ensure brake pads have a minimum of 50% material remaining
  • Check underbody for excess corrosion & ensure that the chassis is free from extensive structural repairs
  • Ensure transmission / driveshaft is secure & free from excessive play

Convenience

  • Fully cleaned and valeted vehicles
  • Owners manual, including locking wheel nut tool (if fitted)
  • 2 Keys and remote fobs
  • Service history (if applicable)