Pre-Purchase Car Inspections
Independent expertise
The seller’s workshop, a dealer “fresh service” invoice or a current roadworthy is not an inspection for you as the buyer. We work for the person paying for the check — not the person selling the car.
Transparent pricing
Workshop pre-purchase inspection from $150 + GST. Mobile inspection at the seller’s location from $225 + GST. Final cost depends on the vehicle and what we need to inspect. Clear scope before we start — no hidden extras.
Plain language advice
You get findings in plain language: what is urgent, what can wait, and what is normal for that model and mileage — so you can negotiate or walk away before you pay.
Pre-Purchase Inspections in Melbourne
The seller’s mechanic works for the seller. We inspect for you — workshop from $150 + GST, or mobile at the car from $225 + GST.
A used car can be a good buy or an expensive lesson. StalexAuto inspects for the buyer: identification and records, mechanical systems, underbody, electrics, scan-tool diagnostics and a road test, then we explain what we found. Workshop inspections use the hoist at Williamstown North from $150 + GST. Mobile inspections at the seller’s location start from $225 + GST. We do not repair the car, issue a roadworthy, or negotiate with the seller for you.
Inspect for the buyer
The seller’s mechanic works for the seller
A dealer “fresh service” or the seller’s own workshop report is not an independent check. We inspect for you — workshop from $150 + GST, or mobile at the car from $225 + GST. European specialists; Japanese, Korean and all makes welcome.
- Workshop: hoist, scan tools and a proper underbody look at Williamstown North
- Mobile: we go to the seller’s location when the car cannot come in
- Plain-language findings — what is urgent, what can wait, what is normal for the miles
- Not included: repairs, roadworthy certificate, or dealing with the seller for you
Indicative “from” prices only. Final cost depends on vehicle, parts and inspection. We give a written quote before major work.
Client checklist
Pre-purchase inspection checklist
Workshop from $150 + GST. Mobile from $225 + GST. See exactly what we check before you buy — identification, tyres, suspension, brakes, engine, diagnostics, road test and underbody — in a clear two-page information guide.
- Structured workshop assessment — not a roadworthy certificate
- Plain-language findings before you commit
- European specialists · all makes welcome
Coverage can vary by vehicle access and booking scope. Final findings are explained after the inspection.
What we check during a pre-purchase inspection
At StalexAuto, a pre-purchase inspection is a structured assessment for the buyer — not a quick glance, not a roadworthy certificate, and not the seller’s own mechanic. We inspect identification and records, mechanical systems, underbody condition, electrics and how the car drives, then explain findings in plain language. Workshop inspections use the hoist and diagnostic equipment at Williamstown North; mobile inspections are available at the seller’s location from $225 + GST.
You receive a clear report highlighting areas of concern so you can weigh likely repair costs against the asking price before you commit. If the seller will not allow an independent inspection, that is useful information on its own.
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.
How much does a pre-purchase inspection cost?
Pre-purchase inspection starts from $150 + GST at the workshop. Mobile inspection at the seller’s location starts from $225 + GST. Final cost depends on the vehicle and inspection scope. We confirm pricing when you book.
Can you inspect a car at the seller’s location?
Yes. Mobile pre-purchase inspection starts from $225 + GST. For hoist access and full workshop diagnostic equipment, bring the car to Williamstown North — workshop PPI starts from $150 + GST.
Why not use the seller’s mechanic or a dealer inspection?
The seller’s mechanic works for the seller. A dealer “fresh service” invoice or the selling workshop’s report is not an independent check for you as the buyer. We inspect for the person paying for the inspection.
What is not included in a pre-purchase inspection?
Repairs, a roadworthy certificate, and dealing with the seller on your behalf are not included. We report condition and likely upcoming costs so you can decide, negotiate or walk away.
What do you need from me to book?
Rego and state, approximate mileage if you have it, and whether the car comes to Williamstown North or we go to the seller. For mobile jobs we need the seller’s suburb or address and a contact number. Book via Book a Service — the form can start with those fields in the message.
What if the seller will not allow an inspection?
That is useful information on its own. We recommend not paying a deposit until an independent inspection is allowed.
What our customers
say
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.