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PCO Vehicle Inspection Centre

PCO Vehicle Inspection Centre

4.2(371 reviews)See reviews ↓·London

What customers say

Based on genuine customer reviews

Vehicle inspection for private hire drivers forms the backbone of the work here, and the courtesy shown by the team is a point that comes up often. Visitors describe being greeted warmly at reception, with the person on the counter listening attentively and directing drivers through each step. Oliver is singled out by name for his professional and polite manner, while colleagues in general are portrayed as patient and ready to respond to queries. Turnaround is a common theme: vehicles are checked at the appointed time and drivers are on their way within roughly a quarter of an hour, with those arriving ahead of schedule seen without delay.

Tidy premises and straightforward communication around the inspection are also mentioned. Long-standing customers who have returned across seven years speak of trouble-free visits, and the atmosphere is said to be respectful rather than impersonal. A repeat visitor reports that a second appointment matched the first, and one account notes a marked improvement on how things were a couple of years earlier, pointing to a steady standard of vehicle inspection and driver care.

PCO Vehicle Inspection Centre — Customer photo

Reviews

Reviews are taken from publicly available sources.

RM
Rez More26 January 2026

I have been using this test centre for several years and have always chosen to bring all my vehicles here because most of the staff have been respectful and professional. Unfortunately, my most recent experience last week was very disappointing and has changed my view. I brought my newly purchased car for inspection, but the test failed due to a delay by the DVLA in sending the V5C logbook. The failure itself was not my main issue. While I was calmly explaining to one of the engineers/testers that I had already spoken to TfL and was told it was at the test centre’s discretion whether to accept the vehicle — especially given that I had full supporting documents including proof of purchase and purchase date — a younger member of staff began mockingly laughing at me. I asked him directly why he was laughing at me, as I found this behaviour unprofessional and disrespectful. After this interaction, I felt that the tester could have exercised discretion, as advised by TfL, and passed the test based on the complete documentation provided. Instead, I strongly felt that the test failed because I questioned the inappropriate behaviour of his colleague. As a result, I was forced to wait several days to rebook another test and was unable to work during this time. What makes this even more frustrating is that the V5C logbook arrived at my home the same day I returned from the test centre. I have always supported this centre in the past, but this experience left me feeling disrespected and unfairly treated. I hope management takes staff behaviour and professionalism more seriously to prevent other customers from going through a similar experience.

IU
Irfan Ullah30 December 2025

Great experience at Staples Corner Vehicle Inspection Centre. Professional staff, efficient service, and clear communication. Highly recommended

MA
Mahmoud Al Karad17 December 2025

What a good experience for the second time. Very friendly staff and good customer service.

BK
Black Knight9 December 2025

A lot better here now than couple years ago

AA
Amer Alhadad25 November 2025

I was there before 30mints I miss my old vehicle licence they took my peppers and didn't say you would fail without it then after more than 40mints they told me I have to rebook another appointment because failed!!! And why also the removed my licence from my vehicle and I have another 2weeks !!

ED
Edwin Dooley24 October 2025

Friendly staff, always willing to answer questions and to try and help, very patient, well done

SR
stuka Rwooop24 October 2025

I would unequivocally give this service zero stars if that option were available. The rampant incompetence and lack of qualified personnel at TFL are deeply troubling. It is astonishing and quite concerning to see how a significant number of employees have managed to secure their positions despite their apparent unpreparedness and lack of skill. This situation demands urgent attention and accountability, as it directly impacts the efficiency and safety of public transportation services.

Garages & MOT centres in London compared

Ordered by rating, weighted by the number of reviews — businesses with only a handful of reviews do not jump to the top automatically. 9 businesses in this category in London are compared.

RankProviderRatingReviewsOpen Sat.
1Auto King Bethnal Green★ 4,9689Yes
2Fast MOT★ 4,9314No
3Car City Mechanic Garage★ 4,9215No
4The Garage★ 4,8421No
5Car Garage East London★ 5,06Yes
9PCO Vehicle Inspection Centre (this page)★ 4,2371Yes
Contact
Working hours
Monday07:00–17:00
Tuesday07:00–17:00
Wednesday07:00–17:00
Thursday07:00–17:00
Friday07:00–17:00
Saturday07:00–17:00
Sunday07:00–17:00