Inspection checklist
A general checklist you can take to any inspection. For model-specific items, open the vehicle’s own page.
Before you go
- Run a PPSR check on the VIN for finance owing, write-off history and theft.
- Ask for the service book or invoices and the registration papers in the seller’s name.
- Check the official recall service for the VIN.
At the car
- Start it cold. Listen for rattles, tapping or smoke on start-up.
- Check every panel gap, paint match and the underside of the boot floor for repair signs.
- Check tyre wear across each tyre; uneven wear points to alignment or suspension issues.
- Test every switch, window, light and the air-conditioning.
- Look under the oil cap and at the coolant for contamination.
On the drive
- Drive at low speed with the windows down, then at highway speed.
- Brake firmly from speed on an empty road and feel for pulling or pulsing.
- Test full-lock turns both ways and listen for clicking.
- Let the car idle after the drive and watch the temperature gauge.
If you’re not confident, book an independent pre-purchase inspection. It is the cheapest insurance you can buy.