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Pre-Purchase Car Inspection FAQs
Find answers to common questions about our mobile pre-purchase car inspection services. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact us directly.
Pre-Purchase Car Inspection FAQs: Cost, Time and Reports
What is a mobile pre-purchase car inspection?
It’s an independent check of a used car, done where the car is parked, before you buy it. The inspector works through 150 points on Standard or 250+ on Premium, and you get a digital report with photos and a PPSR certificate the same day.
Why should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a used car?
To find problems a test drive won’t show, while you can still negotiate, ask for repairs or walk away. In a private sale there’s no statutory warranty, so faults found after you pay are yours to fix.
How does a mobile car inspection work?
You book online or by phone and give us the car’s address. The inspector goes to the seller or dealer, inspects the car there, and you get the report the same day. How it works, step by step.
How long does a mobile pre-purchase car inspection take?
Most inspections take 60 to 120 minutes, depending on the package and the car. The report comes the same day.
What does the 150-point check cover?
The engine, gearbox, brakes, suspension and steering, the interior and exterior, and the electrics and safety systems, with photos and notes on anything the inspector finds. Premium covers 250+ points. See the full checklist.
Do I need to attend the inspection?
No. The inspector deals directly with the seller or dealer, and you get the report with photos the same day.
Is a mobile inspection better than a workshop inspection?
A mobile inspection checks the car where it is, so nothing has to be moved and you see the car as it’s being sold. Here’s how mobile and workshop inspections compare.
Will I get a report at the end of the inspection?
Yes. You get a digital report with photos, the condition of each area, the inspector’s notes on any problems and a PPSR certificate.
Will a pre-purchase inspection help me negotiate the price?
Absolutely, a pre-purchase inspection can give you bargaining power on the price. If documented problems exist, a lower price may be warranted or repairs needed before sale. It provides you with a factual point to argue.
Are mobile car inspections worth it?
For most private sales, we think so: a private seller isn’t bound by consumer guarantees, so you carry the risk of any fault. For a near-new car from a licensed dealer, it’s more of a judgement call. Our full answer.
Can you inspect a car at a dealership, private seller or auction yard?
Yes, mobile inspectors can inspect vehicles at dealerships, private sellers or auction yards. They work directly with the seller or venue to make arrangements for access. It works for all buying situations.
What tools does the inspector use?
A scan tool to read current and stored fault codes (with live data on Premium), a battery load tester and a paint-depth gauge, along with the road test where the car can be driven.
Is the inspection independent?
Yes. InspectCar isn’t affiliated with any seller, dealer, repair workshop or insurer, so the assessment is independent.
How much does a pre-purchase car inspection cost?
Standard is $250 and Premium is $395, and both include a PPSR certificate. On Standard you can add an EV or hybrid check for $60, a 4×4, ute or van check for $49, or paint-depth mapping or a video walkthrough for $50. Compare the packages.
What's the difference between Standard and Premium?
Standard covers 150 points and suits most used cars. Premium covers 250+ points and adds the checks for 4WDs, utes, vans, EVs, hybrids and luxury cars, full paint-depth mapping, live diagnostic data and a market valuation with negotiation tips.
Is a PPSR check included?
Yes. Every Standard and Premium inspection includes a PPSR certificate, which shows whether money is owing on the car or it’s recorded as written off or stolen. A private seller doesn’t have to give you one.
Do you inspect electric cars and hybrids?
Yes. The $60 EV or hybrid check, or Premium, covers the battery’s health, the charging system and the high-voltage parts. For a certificate of the battery’s state of health, add an Aviloo battery test: $250 on its own, or $450 with Premium. More on EV inspections and hybrid inspections.
Do you inspect caravans and motorhomes?
Yes. Every van is different, so call 1800 372 001 for a quote, and we’ll agree what to check. More on caravan and motorhome inspections.
Which areas do you cover?
Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast, including Logan, Ipswich, Redland, Moreton Bay and Tweed Heads. Most addresses around Brisbane and the Gold Coast can be booked online, and Sunshine Coast inspections are booked by phone. See Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast.
What days do you inspect?
Monday to Saturday, 8am to 6pm, and Sundays by appointment. Call 1800 372 001 to arrange a Sunday.
Still Have Questions?
Our team is here to help. Get in touch with us and we’ll answer any questions you have about our inspection services.