Frequently Asked Questions- FAQs

This page is designed to answer some of the more common questions about CSR

What is a CSR^®? A Classic Status Report (CSR) is a comprehensive, standardised check using a 175 point (10 page) format covering five key areas: coachwork, running gear, electrics, interior/aesthetic and mechanicals. Click here to read 'The CSR In Detail which gives an in-depth summary of the CSR.

Why is the CSR better than other used car inspections? Other inspection reports are not designed specifically for classic cars, as ours is. Manufacturing processes, mechanical tolerances and production facilities have changed massively over the years, and all of our inspectors are classic car specialists so they understand how the cars should be. Also, the value and importance of a classic car is often linked to its originality, something a general mechanic would probably be unable to comment on.

Is the CSR a warranty, guarantee or valuation?  No! The CSR is not a warranty, guarantee or valuation; it is an assessment of the vehicle at a point in time, and although the Associates are all experts, the CSR checks may not be able to identify all potential faults. Classic cars by their nature are old and the standard CSR is non-invasive (we don't remove any parts)

What vehicles can you check? We can check pretty much any classic car, car-derived vans and some common larger vehicles (such as VW campers).  We have Associates who specialise in all sorts of other classic vehicles such as historic military vehicles, commercial vehicles, American imports and race-prepared cars. Please check our Associate list here to see if your vehicle type is listed.  If your car has a value of over £50,000 you must contact us first.

Can I commission a CSR on a car I do not own (e.g. as a pre-purchase inspection). Yes, but you need to obtain the owner/registered keeper's written permission and present this to the Associate prior to the inspection taking place. If you choose a non- mobile Associate, then you are responsible for transporting the car to and from his place of work.

How can I tell a seller's CSR is genuine?  All CSRs have a unique serial number and carry a tamper-proof hologram sticker (very similar to those on the back of credit cards). You can also check the authenticity of any CSR by contacting us with the serial number and the chassis number of your car, and we'll check it for you.

Can I become a CSR Associate (Inspector)?  If you represent an established classic car restoration business, can provide references and agree to meet our strict standards of customer service, then you may be able to become a CSR Associate- please contact us with your details here. 

If you are an individual with experience of classic cars and feel you could meet the criteria, you may be able to become an Associate. At present, we are prevented from using anyone without their own public liability insurance, but contact us anyway and we will let you know the latest information.

How can I complain? We really hope you won't need to, but if you have a problem, speak to either the Associate (if applicable) or contact us and we'll do our best to sort things out.

What if my car gets damaged during the check or someone is hurt- do I need extra insurance?
Absolutely not- the procedure is the same as if you car was in the garage for a service, and the Associate will apply the same procedures. In terms of protection & safety, we consider these to be paramount. When you buy a check you sign to agree you know of no parts of the vehicle which are unusually dangerous or liable to damage or breakage. If the Associate finds such parts he may avoid that area of the check or, in extreme situations, (such as a large fuel leak) may refuse to continue the check. In this situation, you should speak to us and, depending upon the situation, we may offer a full or partial refund. Finally, we insist on our Associates being fully covered by insurance, and we have a wide range of insurance cover.

Who do you offer discounts to?  We currently offer a discount to serving members of HM Armed Forces (under the rank of Cdr/Lt Col/Wg Cdr), serving police officers, current members of MGOC and other selected individuals. If you fall into one of these categories, contact us with your details and membership/ service number and we'll confirm your eligibility and send you a discount code. Terms and conditions apply.

Will the inspector travel to the car? Who pays travel expenses? Many of our Associates have agreed to be 'mobile' and will travel a certain distance to inspect a car- this status is listed on their biography on this site. Travel costs are in addition to the check and will be arranged directly between the Associate and the customer, but we suggest a rate of 40 p per mile (the figure suggested for business mileage by HMRC). Some Associates will also arrange collection of a car for you (again at your cost)- please read their biographies, and give them a ring first if you want to clarify anything.