Pre-Purchase Car Inspections
Independent expertise
Don't rely solely on the seller's assurances. Our independent, honest, and unbiased expert evaluation offers the confidence you need to ensure you're making the right purchase. Keep in mind, a current roadworthy certificate confirms the vehicle's safety for road use but doesn't assess its overall quality or performance.
Transparent pricing
We prioritise transparency in both our pricing and processes. We provide clear, competitive quotes, ensuring you understand all associated costs upfront. With no hidden fees, you'll always know exactly what you're paying for.
Plain language advice
We communicate in clear, straightforward language, ensuring you feel comfortable regardless of your automotive knowledge. You don't need to be a car expert, we're here to provide reliable, easy-to-understand advice to help you make informed decisions about your potential purchase.
Pre-Purchase Inspections in Melbourne
Buying a car from a private seller? As the saying goes, ‘buyer beware.’ Make sure you check everything carefully before making a purchase
We conduct comprehensive pre-purchase inspections to ensure you make informed and confident vehicle purchasing decisions. Our meticulous evaluations identify existing issues, safeguarding your investment and helping you avoid unexpected future expenses. We provide clear, reliable advice to guide you toward selecting a vehicle that aligns with your needs and is free from hidden defects. Schedule your pre-purchase inspection online at your convenience.
What we check during a pre-purchase inspection
At StalexAuto, a pre-purchase inspection is a structured workshop assessment — not a quick glance or a roadworthy certificate. We inspect identification and records, mechanical systems, underbody condition, electrics and how the car drives, then explain findings in plain language.
You receive a clear report highlighting areas of concern so you can weigh likely repair costs against the asking price before you commit.
Our pre-purchase inspection checklist
Vehicle identification & documentation
VIN verified on body and windscreen
Registration number and expiry
Odometer reading and consistency checks
Service book and maintenance records
PPSR check
Tyres & wheels
Tread depth and wear pattern
Tyre age (DOT date codes)
Wheel condition — cracks or bends
Wheel nuts present and secure
Spare wheel or repair kit
Suspension & steering
Front and rear suspension — play, leaks, bushes
Shock absorbers — leakage and performance
Ball joints and tie rods — play and boots
Steering feel — smoothness, noise, free play
Power steering fluid and leaks
Braking system
Brake pedal feel and travel
Brake fluid level and condition
Front and rear pad thickness
Rotors — scoring, thickness, runout
Brake hoses — cracks or leaks
Handbrake and ABS / DSC warning lights
Engine & under-bonnet
Engine oil level and condition
Coolant level, condition and leaks
Transmission / diff oil where accessible
Belts, pulleys, hoses and clamps
Radiator / expansion tank and battery
Air filter / intake and visible oil or coolant leaks
Exhaust system
Secure mounting — no leaks or excessive noise
Exhaust smoke — colour and smell
Transmission & driveline
Gearbox operation and shift quality
Clutch engagement (manual)
Transmission fluid leaks
CV joints and boots
Differential leaks / noises and driveshaft mounts
Interior & electrical
Computer diagnostic scan
Interior condition — trim, seats, carpets, headlining
Seatbelts, windows, locks, mirrors and wipers
Air conditioning / heating
Dashboard warning lights and instrument cluster
Infotainment, CarPlay / Bluetooth, reverse camera
Power outlets / USBs and airbag system check
Road test
Starting performance — cold and hot
Idle quality, noise and vibrations
Acceleration and gearbox shifting
Braking performance and ABS function
Steering tracking and straightness
Suspension noises, temperature stability and warning lights
Underbody & chassis
Rust and corrosion
Fuel lines and brake lines
Related services
Common questions about Pre-Purchase Inspections
How long does a pre-purchase inspection take in Melbourne?
Most inspections take 1–2 hours at our Williamstown North workshop, depending on the vehicle and any follow-up tests after the road test and scan.
Is a pre-purchase inspection the same as a roadworthy?
No. A roadworthy checks minimum legal safety. A pre-purchase inspection is deeper — for you as the buyer — covering mechanical condition, diagnostics and likely upcoming costs.
Do you inspect European and premium used cars?
Yes. We specialise in European and premium vehicles and also inspect Japanese, Korean and other makes when you need an honest independent check before buying.
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Ready to book or need advice first?
Call us to discuss symptoms, request a quote for a specific repair, or book a service online. We are happy to talk through diagnostics, inspections and gearbox work before you commit to major repairs.