Simi approved garage. Independent check.

eldamo

Looking at two mondeos at the minute, asking prices 15-17k both from dealers, at least one simi approved.
Going to give them a once over tomorrow, really don't know much other than what I have learned in a few online guides.

I take it that even if they are simi approved I would still be wise to throw the aa or whoever a couple of hundred quid to give it a once over.

Or does simi approval convey an unimpeachable virtue?

bazz26

SIMI approved garage means nothing other than the dealer joined the club and paid their membership fees. It's a lobby group made up of member dealers which campaigns for their own needs.

Doesn't mean you're guaranteed to be any more protected than buying from a non SIMI garage, there could be the same chance of finding a dodgy dealer with a SIMI membership sign over their door as there is finding a decent non SIMI dealer. Do your background checks and search feedback on the garage as well as the car they are selling.

Atlantic Dawn

Is either a UK import, do either have a full service history? Without knowing the cars past it's a risk buying it from anyone.