Purchasing a used vehicle can be an exciting yet daunting experience. While you may have found the perfect car for your needs and budget, how can you be sure it is mechanically sound before handing over your hard-earned cash? This is where pre-purchase inspections come in. Having an independent and comprehensive inspection done by a qualified workshop gives you peace of mind and helps avoid nasty surprises down the track.
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Why Are Pre-Purchase Inspections Important?
As the old saying goes, “let the buyer beware”. When buying a used car privately or even from a dealer, you cannot fully know its history or how well it has been maintained. The seller may assure you it runs like a dream, but without an expert inspection, it is impossible to verify the car’s true mechanical condition.
A pre-purchase inspection allows a mechanic to forensically examine the vehicle and identify any existing or potential faults. This gives you an impartial and detailed report on the car before purchase, arming you with information to negotiate on price if repairs are needed or even walk away if the vehicle is unsafe or beyond economical repair.
What Does a Pre-Purchase Inspection Cover?
A thorough pre-purchase inspection will assess all critical systems and components. This includes:
- Engine – compression and leak down testing, ignition system, fuel system, belts, hoses
- Drivetrain – clutch, gearbox, driveshafts, differentials
- Suspension – shocks, springs, bushes, ball joints, steering mechanism
- Brakes – discs, pads, calipers, hoses, handbrake operation
- Electrical – alternator output, battery, lights, switches
- Safety – seatbelts, airbags, ABS, tire condition and age
A comprehensive report will also check the vehicle’s service history and odometer reading against records to ensure there is no fraudulent winding back of the clocks. Items like oil condition can also indicate how well the car has been maintained.
Why Use A Workshop Over DIY Inspections?
Doing your own inspection or having a friend who knows a bit about cars take a look may seem like a cheaper option. However, without professional diagnostic equipment and mechanical expertise, many issues can go unnoticed.
Workshop mechanics have years of training and experience assessing used vehicles. They have the specialist tools and knowledge to undertake thorough inspections that an amateur cannot. You are paying for their expertise to potentially save you from buying a lemon.
What To Do During The Inspection
It is a good idea to attend the pre-purchase inspection so you can see first-hand the process involved. This enables you to discuss any issues that arise directly with the mechanic. Make sure you:
- Explain the car’s intended use and your key priorities eg fuel efficiency, child safety features.
- Ask the mechanic to identify areas that may need attention now or in the near future.
- Get them to rank the urgency of any recommended repairs.
- Request a test drive to experience any problems you may not have noticed like brake shudder or wheel alignment.
- Compare their objective inspection with your own impressions after a test drive.
How To Choose A Reputable Workshop
Not all workshops are equal when it comes to used car inspections. Here’s what to look for in a great pre-purchase inspection service:
- Qualified mechanics – ensure they are fully licensed and experienced with thorough used car checks.
- Trusted reputation – check reviews and industry reputation. Word of mouth referral from trusted friends also goes a long way.
- Established business – long trading history indicates stability, experience and satisfied customers.
- Specialist diagnostic tools – latest technology to assess all vehicle systems accurately.
- Comprehensive report – details issues found, recommended actions, priorities and overall assessment.
- Reasonable fees – should provide value for thorough inspection taking 1-2 hours typically.
- Convenient booking – flexible with weekend and after hours options to inspect cars you are serious about buying.
Making An Informed Decision
Armed with a pre-purchase inspection report, you can make an educated buying decision. Take notice of recommended repairs and factor the costs into negotiations on purchase price. For minor issues this may be worthwhile, but for major mechanical faults, it may be best to walk away.
As a guide, here are scenarios where purchasing the vehicle may not be advised:
- Repairs estimated to cost more than the vehicle’s value.
- Critical safety issues like faulty airbags or brakes.
- Major problems like engine knocking, transmission slipping.
- More than 5 previous owners which may indicate avoidance of big repairs.
- More than 200,000km showing excessive wear and higher risk of breakdowns.
While not perfect, a pre-purchase inspection reduces the risks involved with used cars. It can give you objective insights and the confidence to make the right choice for your needs and budget. For the investment of a few hundred dollars, it is worthwhile for peace of mind about your major purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
✓How much does a pre-purchase inspection cost?
Expect to pay $150-$350 for a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection at a reputable workshop. The investment can potentially save you thousands so it is money well spent.
✓How long does an inspection take?
Most inspections take 1-2 hours for the mechanic to thoroughly assess all the vehicle’s systems and components. Allow extra time if you are attending to observe and test drive.
✓Can I get an inspection done on a car I don’t own yet?
Yes, most workshops are happy to inspect vehicles you are considering buying but don’t own yet. However, it’s wise to get the seller’s consent first.
✓What if problems are found during the inspection?
The mechanic can provide a detailed report on any issues found. You can then decide if you still wish to purchase with repairs factored in, attempt to renegotiate the price, or walk away from the sale.