A NATIONAL helpline has been set up offering independent vehicle inspections following stark warnings that some used cars are 'coffins on wheels'. It is not only aimed at improving customer confidence but also at bolstering residual values for fleet cars being sold through forecourt sites.

The Institute of Trading Standards recently issued a report called 'Coffins on Wheels' attacking the quality of vehicles available from some forecourts. It found that a third of vehicles it inspected did not have an MoT but 80% would have been allowed out on the roads for test drives.

The One Stop Car Shop, launched last month, says its service can help forecourts to instill confidence in buyers or allow customers to see for themselves that a car is safe. For between £59.95 and £119.95 depending on engine size, a 200-point vehicle examination is offered with a full written report in 24 hours.

One Stop Car Shop opened its first outlet in Bournemouth last month, with a further 80 planned, offering services that range from insurance to warranties, valeting and vehicle leasing aimed at the used car industry. The national helpline number is 0870 2410101.