Visual Condition Grades
Manheim’s visual condition grading provides additional information about the vehicle’s interior and exterior condition. The information provided in the Condition Report is not a complete list of all interior and exterior visual defects or faults.
Participating vehicles are graded by trained inspectors working to a strict standard. Vehicles are graded from 1 to 5 using principles from the internationally accepted NAMA grading scheme, non-participating vehicles will receive the grade unclassified. Grade 1 is the highest grade.
The relevant grading for each vehicle will be recorded in each vehicle condition report.
Please note that:
- Vehicles are used vehicles and may have other visual defects which may not be visible from the Standard Viewing Angle of 2 meters at 90 degrees, plus or minus 45 degrees and will not be recorded on the Condition Report; and
- Visual Grading is based on an external walk around of the vehicle only, no items are removed or disassembled to identify damage, the under body of the vehicle is not inspected during the inspection process and may or may not have existing damage.
- Mechanical and electrical systems, vehicle equipment and accessories are not tested and do not form any bearing on the visual grade.
- Damage or wear that has occurred during normal use or has happened due to the natural ageing of the motor vehicle is considered Fair Wear and Tear and will not be listed in the condition report.
NAMA Grading Scheme
The NAMA Grading Scheme for vehicles has been developed to enhance transparency and make it easier for auction buyers to select the vehicles they want to buy
The scheme has 5 grades which are based on the aesthetic condition of a vehicle. The grades are determined on a points system allocated by type and severity of damage. Grades are assessed by inspectors specifically trained to grade vehicles and work to a strict standard.
The Grades
| SMART Repairs | Minor Body Shop Repairs | Major Body Shop Repair |
|---|---|---|
| (Small Medium Repair Technique) | (Scratches, Chips & Scuffs) | (Dents, holes and gouging) |
| Examples of SMART Repairs include: | Examples of minor body shop repairs include: | Examples of major body shop repairs include: |
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| Vehicle Information | |
|---|---|
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Highest awarded grade. Some minor imperfections may exist, for example miniscule dents or minor scratches that require SMART repairs. These will be recorded on the Condition Report. |
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Second highest awarded grade. The vehicle may require repairs as Grade 1 plus up to two body shop repairs. These will be recorded on the Condition Report. |
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Third highest awarded grade. Vehicle may require repairs as Grade 2 plus may require major or minor repairs. These will be recorded on the Condition Report. |
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The vehicle may require repairs as per Grade 3 plus numerous additional major & minor body shop repairs. Examples of major repairs may include a door mirror repair and paint or a bonnet repair and paint. These will be recorded on the Condition Report. |
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A combination of major or minor repairs may be required exceeding that of grade 4. These will be recorded on the Condition Report. |
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Vehicles are classified as ungraded when they have not been inspected. This may occur when a vehicle falls into one of the following categories:
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With Manheim’s new Visual Grading, you now have a better understanding of the condition of the vehicle you are purchasing.
Disclaimer: This information is intended as a guide only and Manheim gives no guarantee or warranty about the accuracy of the information contained within. You must ensure that you have read, understood and agreed to the terms and conditions for buying at auction which include confirmation that vehicles are sold “as is, where is” with all faults (if any) and you must independently verify information which is important to your purchasing decision.