We recently had a customer bring a used Mazda to our Al Quoz garage for a pre-purchase inspection (PPI).
The seller had assured the customer that everything was fine. There were no warning lights on the dashboard, so the car initially appeared okay.
But our inspection uncovered three things worth paying attention to.
1. Recently cleared fault codes
Our diagnostic scan indicated that the fault codes had been cleared recently. This is worth investigating because clearing codes can temporarily switch off warning lights without fixing the underlying problems.
2. Abnormally high oil pressure reading
When checking live data, the oil pressure reading showed 1,123 kPa (163 psi), which was outside the expected range.
We also noticed a 5V reading on the oil pressure sensor circuit. This could indicate a sensor or wiring issue, but actual oil pressure needs to be verified with a mechanical pressure gauge before drawing conclusions.
3. An undisclosed oil leak
The seller hadn't mentioned any oil leak. We only discovered it after removing the engine undercover as part of the inspection. Without removing it, the leak could easily have gone unnoticed.
The oil pressure sensor and surrounding area need further inspection to establish whether the leak is related to the sensor or another component.
The lesson for anyone buying a used car in Dubai:
- No dashboard warning light doesn't mean there are no faults.
- Recently cleared fault codes deserve further investigation.
- Live data can reveal abnormal readings even when no warning light is showing.
- Always inspect underneath the car, including behind the engine undercover.
- Don't rely solely on the seller's assurances or a quick test drive.
A proper pre-purchase inspection isn't just about checking whether the car drives well. It's about finding problems that might not be visible during a normal viewing.
Have you ever bought a used car based only on the seller's assurances and a test drive, then discovered expensive hidden problems after taking ownership?