RAC Preparation Standards

RAC Approved - Vehicle Preparation Standard

The vehicle has been prepared to ensure that the following items/parts/functionality are in the correct working order.

1. Vehicle History

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

2. Road Test

• Cruise Control (if applicable)
• Satisfactory starting, general performance and behaviour of the vehicle
• Particular attention to the operation of clutch, transmission, steering, suspension and brakes including A.B.S.
• Ensure there are no abnormal noises
• There are no visual fluid leaks after the road test
• Gauges operate property
• Check the battery and starter motor, and start the engine with ease from both hot and cold
• Check to ensure no excessive visual emissions from the exhaust
• Check hot-starting and ensure no evidence of over-heating
• Check no stored faults on the OBD
• Ensure correct operation and efficiency of the parking brake

3. Vehicle Exterior

• No dents or scratches visible to the eye from a distance of 2m
• Windscreen is free from any damage that would exclude the vehicle from an MOT test
• Ensure there are no signs of bodywork corrosion
• Operation and condition of exterior mirrors
• Ensure 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
• Operation of bonnet catch, safety catch, hinges, and tailgate supports
• Operation of door Locks and central locking including child safety locks
• Ensure exterior trim for security and correct fitment

4. Vehicle Interior

• Operation of door windows (manual/electric)
• Operation of all exterior Lighting equipment and respective control lights and cluster illumination Operation of wipers and washers
• Operation of convertible roof mechanism (if applicable) Visual check of correct SRS functionality
• All warning Lights operate correctly
• Operation of audio and alarm systems
• Operation of Navigation System (if applicable)
• Operation of Air-conditioning, heating and demist systems Operation of instruments, gauges and controls
• Operation of all internal equipment (eg cigarette lighters, sun visors, arms rests etc)
• Operation of visual and audible driver warning systems Operation of parking assistance systems (if applicable) ALL drive pedals operate correctly
• Ensure no evidence of water ingress
• Operation and condition of seatbelts / Mountings
• Security of seat mountings, headrests and seat adjustment mechanism
• 301655 RAC Approved preparation standard insert 0513 v Operation of interior lights
• Operation of rearview mirror /sun visors
• Operation and condition of sunroof mechanism(if applicable)
• Ensure correct operation of parcelshelf
• Ensure interior trim / dashboard for tears, holes, burns or excessive soiling

5. Road Wheels & Tyre Check

• Ensure the vehicle jack, tool kit, locking wheel nut and safety equipment
• Ensure minimum tread depth of 3mm across all tyres including spare (if applicable)
• Ensure road wheels are free from distortion, gouges or visible cracking
• Ensure tyres are free from cuts, bulges and inappropriate repairs
• Ensure no evidence of uneven tyre wear or casing damage

6. Engine Compartment

• Check engine oil for the correct level and dipstick oil sample is free from contamination
• Ensure coolant antifreeze content, and ensure the system is free of visual contamination
• Check the vehicle’s charging system for minimum output
• Ensure correct gearbox fluid levels, manual or automatic (where applicable)
• Check to ensure all fluid levels; e.g. brake, clutch, power steering, washer reservoir and battery (including security)
• Auxiliary drive belts, condition and tension
• Engine mountings for security and condition
• Wiring, pipes, hoses, oil and fuel feed lines for routing; are free from damage, chafing and leaks (where visible)
• Free from fluid leaks
• Condition of cooling system radiator and engine oil cooler /intercooler are free from damage or excessive corrosion
• No evident undue engine noise
• For hybrid vehicles only:
• Operation of Hybrid cooling system
• Switchable power-train mount
• Hybrid entertainment and information display

7. Underbody

• Exhaust condition and mountings
• Clamps and security
• Ensure no evidence of fluid or exhaust leaks
• Catalytic Converter
• Operation and condition of steering for leaks and security
• Tie rod ends, CV boots and rack boots condition
• Front and rear suspension
• No visual evidence of faults in braking components
• Ensure brake pads have a minimum of 50% material remaining
• Check the underbody for excess corrosion and ensure that the Chassis is free from extensive structural repairs
• Ensure transmission / driveshaft is secure and free from excessive free-play

8. Convenience

• Fully cleaned and valeted vehicles
• Owners Guide
• Keys and remote fobs
• Service history (if applicable)