How We Grade Our Vehicles

Clear, Honest & Straightforward

When you’re buying a used car - especially something over 10 years old - you deserve clarity, not guesswork. That’s why we use a simple, no-nonsense grading system to tell you exactly what to expect from every vehicle we sell.

Whether you’re after a reliable daily runner, a lightly-used modern classic, or a full-on project, our Build Levels Grading System helps you make the right decision based on your needs, skills, and budget. Every car we list is assigned a build level based on its condition, drivability, and prep status.

A white vintage Volkswagen GTI hatchback car driving on a road with a grassy hillside in the background.

Turn-Key (1)

Fully road-ready. MOT’d, no warning lights, no major faults. A car we’d happily drive ourselves.

Drives well with no known mechanical issues
MOT present and clear of major advisories
Eligible for warranty if under 10 years old
£99 admin fee applies on sale

Finance not available

Two vintage cars, one red and one blue, parked side by side in a dimly lit garage.

Tinker & Drive (2)

A usable runner with minor wear or expected age-related jobs - ideal for confident DIYers or budget buyers.

Runs, drives, stops safely

May have minor faults, cosmetic wear, or MOT advisories

Sold as seen, no warranty included.

Optional 12-month warranty from £299 (for eligible cars under 10 years old)

Finance not available

Back view of a vintage Volkswagen Beetle in a garage, with the garage door open showing stairs and a wooden fence outside.

Full Project (3)

Needs work. These cars are not road-ready and are best suited for spares, restoration, or serious recommissioning.

May have MOT failure, mechanical faults, or electrical issues
Sold strictly as seen
Not eligible for finance or warranty
Transport or trailer away recommended

Warranty & Vehicle Age Policy

The majority of vehicles we sell are over 10 years old. With that age comes both value and character - but also wear and tear.

For that reason:

✅ Cars under 10 years old may come with a 3-month warranty if graded Turn-Key.

⚠️ Cars over 10 years old are sold without warranty, regardless of grading level.

🛠️ Optional warranty cover may be available on a case-by-case basis.

Even older cars can be “Turn-Key” — our grading reflects current condition, not just age. But we’ll always be clear if a vehicle is not covered by warranty so you can buy with eyes open.

A dark green Mini Cooper with a white roof parked on a dirt path in a wooded area with leafless trees.

Still Not Sure Where to Start?

Not sure what level is right for you? We’re happy to advise. Whether you’re buying your first car, downsizing, or planning a project build, we’ll help you find the right fit — and we’ll never oversell or overpromise.

Book a free chat

Or drop us a message