Vehicles are independently inspected by Aston Barclay staff in advance of each auction and a matrix-based value allocated for the cost of repair and a generic cost of a replacement part. The total value is then used to determine the grade of a vehicle. 

The overall exterior condition is denoted by a grading from A to E (A being the highest) and a number from 1 to 3 to assess the interior condition (1 being the highest).

'We introduced the system towards the end of last year and it is working well,' said Barry Watts, group operations director at Aston Barclay Westbury. 'Once buyers register for our online auctions they are then able to check the condition of each vehicle prior to sale. Our online sales are currently running at about 5 to 105 but are increasing on a weekly basis at our three auction sites throughout the UK.'

The vehicle grading structure is as follows:

EXTERIOR CONDITION

Grade A – A clean vehicle in a condition commensurate with its age and mileage. This may include minor damage such as chips and scratches that may be remedied with touch-ins and polishing and the replacement of minor parts. The cost of these repairs is estimated to be in the region of £100.

Grade B – This vehicle will require a small amount of SMART repair, local paint repairs and the possible replacement of minor parts, up to a cost of approximately £200.

Grade C – The vehicle may require up to two panels of body-shop repair, replacement parts or a cumulative amount of SMART repair up to a cost of approximately £300.

Grade D – The vehicle may require up to three panels of body-shop repair, replacement parts or a cumulative amount of SMART repair up to a total cost in the region of £500.

Grade E – The vehicle will be in a poor condition requiring a high level of refurbishment to achieve a retail standard.

INTERIOR CONDITION

Grade 1 – Clean and commensurate with age and mileage, but may need a standard valet.

Grade 2 – Unclean and possibly stained and will require a professional valet and possible SMART repair to achieve a retail standard.

Grade 3 – Stained and damaged and may require replacement parts.