How to do a pre-purchase car inspection

If you’re buying a used car, major motoring organisations, including the NRMA, RACQ and RACV, suggest getting a pre-purchase car inspection to ease any concerns and help you feel more confident in your decision-making. A car that seems cheap at first glance could end up costing you a lot in the long run, so the upfront cost of an inspection could save you significantly, or help steer you away from a poor purchase.

What is a pre-purchase car inspection?

A pre-purchase car inspection is a thorough check carried out by a mechanic to ascertain the mechanical condition of a car before buying it, and alert you to any potential safety or performance red flags. Typically it is performed by an independent service, overseen by a qualified mechanic, that evaluates the overall condition of a vehicle and provides you with a report. A basic level inspection will check over the body and paint work to identify any structural or cosmetic damage, while a full inspection adds in an inspection of the chassis and mechanical work to check everything is in full working order.

How can I get a pre-purchase car inspection?

A pre-purchase car inspection can be carried out by a qualified mechanic before you make a final decision on whether to buy a used car or not.

• When buying from a dealership:

If you are buying from a dealership, the car dealer may provide you with the results of an inspection report during the sales process. For example, Toyota says its used vehicles are Certified Pre-Owned and include a full history check and comprehensive quality check.

Keep in mind it’s important to ask what’s covered in your pre-purchase car inspection, particularly if this is done (or has been done) at a car dealership you are considering buying a second-hand car from.

The Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ) says on its website: “If you are buying a used car from a dealer, they are required to guarantee clear title which offers you financial protection in the event of an ownership or financial interest dispute. However, in most cases the dealer is under no obligation to inform you of other significant factors that may affect the vehicle.”

• When buying from a private seller:

If buying a second-hand car from a private seller, you may want to consider getting a pre-purchase car inspection independently yourself. Even if a car has a good service history and up-to-date logbooks, there may be ‘fixes’ that are required soon, such as replacing brake pads, that you may want to know about in advance.

How do pre-purchase inspections work?

When you book a pre-purchase car inspection, an inspector will come at a pre-arranged time and perform a thorough check of the vehicle in question, to make sure that all of its important components are in working order, to help you avoid any nasty surprises after you drive it home. According to ASAP Roadworthys, an agency that conducts pre-purchase inspections, factors considered are likely to include:

• Tyres and wheels

• Engine

• Gears

• Steering and suspension

• Dashboard

• Brakes

• Transmission

• The interior and exterior of the vehicle

• Electrical components

• Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC)

• Undercarriage

• Exhaust

More modern cars may also require a computer diagnostic test to make sure that every system is running smoothly.

When an inspection is completed, you will typically be provided with a report, including a summary of the vehicle’s condition, with photos and potentially also road test drive results.

If you are unsure what components will be included in your pre-purchase inspection, it may be worthwhile to check ahead of time, to make sure that nothing important is missed and that the inspection will be comprehensive.

How much does a pre-purchase car inspection cost?

AutoGuru says as a general guide a pre-purchase inspection can cost between $130 and $300, whereas MyCar lists a flat rate of $249.

NRMA members can get an inspection of a standard car from $280 ($290 for non-members) while prestige vehicles or anything older than 10 years starts from $329 for members ($339 non-members) at the time of writing.

Pre-purchase car inspection prices will also depend on whether it is a mobile service or conducted at the workshop. You may need to pay extra for the mechanic’s time in travelling to and from where the car is.

Based on your requirements, a mechanic may also recommend that the car is moved to a workshop so they can inspect it properly (e.g. using a hoist if necessary). This may take place at your mechanic’s workshop, or they may be able to negotiate to inspect the car at a dealership.

It’s a good idea to discuss the price and a suggested approach with your mechanic or inspector before the services are conducted, to ensure they are able to thoroughly check the car and provide you with relevant professional advice.

Once you buy your second hand car, you are fully responsible for it, so before you drive away it’s a good idea to sort out some level of car insurance cover.

Where can I go for a pre-purchase car inspection?

Most mechanics, car dealerships and all the major state and territory motoring organisations will offer some sort of pre-purchase car inspection service.

Some will offer you the choice of a mobile service, where they come out to the car, or an in-house service where you take the car to them. Having the mobile service is quick and convenient; but taking it to the mechanic can mean the car is inspected using more specialised on-site equipment.

If the car you want to buy is a collectible, it could be a good idea to find an expert on that particular make and model of car to conduct the inspection.

Why should I consider getting a pre-purchase car inspection?

Buying a second-hand car can be fraught with unknowns, whether you are buying online or in person, sight unseen or from interstate, from a private seller, at a car auction or a dealership, or even from a friend.

Unless you’re a qualified car mechanic, there may be many things you miss or don’t realise when assessing a car. While a car may look good to you, there could be major hidden issues under the hood.

CarsGuide says getting a pre-purchase car inspection is an absolute must, as it helps you make an informed decision before handing over payment.

You never know what may have happened to a vehicle with a previous owner. It could have been in an accident, been through dodgy repairs or just not been serviced regularly for wear and tear.

Depending on the results in the final report, a pre-purchase car inspection could also put you in a better position to negotiate a lower price or for necessary repairs to be done before you agree to drive away.

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Pre-purchase car inspection vs vehicle history check: what’s the difference?

A pre-purchase car inspection report shouldn’t be confused with a vehicle history check, which lets you know whether the car you are planning to buy is free from any financial interests (such as whether it is listed as security for debt owing on a car loan), is not stolen and has never been written off.

The pre-purchase inspection report will tell you about any functional problems with the vehicle to provide some added peace of mind before you consider signing on the dotted line.

Checking the VIN (vehicle identification number), the engine number (located on the engine), and the registration number of the car can all be important, including comparing these against the vehicle’s registration papers.

Doing a PPSR (Personal Property Securities Register) check costs $2 and will show if what you are considering buying is likely to be free from debt, and other ways it could put your money at risk.

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