How To Inspect a Used Car Before Buying in Australia

Australia’s used car market is thriving, with over three million vehicles sold annually—far outpacing new car sales. Buying second-hand is often more affordable and helps avoid long wait times or inflated prices linked to new vehicles.
But while the savings can be substantial, skipping a proper inspection can lead to costly regrets. Hidden mechanical issues, odometer tampering, or unresolved finance owing can turn a good deal into a financial burden.
This guide explains how to thoroughly inspect a used car before buying—whether you’re in Victoria, Sydney, or anywhere else across Australia.

Neglecting an inspection can lead to:

• Expensive post-sale repairs
• Legal complications
• Being stuck with an unroadworthy vehicle

Common issues uncovered during inspections include:

• Structural damage or poor accident repairs
• Incomplete or altered service history
• Odometer rollback
• Hidden finance or theft status

A used car inspection not only protects your investment—it also arms you with negotiation power and peace of mind.

The Complete Used Car Inspection Checklist

Whether you’re buying in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, or anywhere else in Australia, here’s what to check:

1. Visual and Mechanical Inspection

Start with a walk-around and basic checks:

• Look for rust, mismatched paint, or dents—signs of past accidents
• Check gaps between body panels for unevenness (a red flag for poor repairs)
• Inspect tyres for tread depth and even wear
• Under the bonnet: Look for leaks, worn belts, and battery condition
• Under the car: Check exhaust and frame for rust or damage
• Inside: Test dashboard lights, upholstery condition, seat functions, and odometer reading

2. Legal and Financial Checks

• PPSR Report: Confirms if the car is under finance, stolen, or written off
• Proof Of Service (PoS): Verified vehicle maintenance reports with health score
• VIN Verification: Ensure VIN matches on chassis, engine, and registration papers
• Registration Status: Check through official state sites like [VIC Roads]
• Seller Verification: Cross-check ID with registration documents

3. Test Drive Evaluation

Never skip this step:

• Cold start: Watch for slow cranking or engine hesitation
• Check engine response, gear shifts, and braking performance
• Listen for abnormal noises (clicks, clunks, squeals)
• Test all electrics: A/C, radio, lights, indicators, wipers, and windows

4. Understanding Statutory Warranties

In states like Victoria and NSW, licensed dealers must offer a statutory warranty on used cars under 10 years old and less than 160,000 km.

But be cautious—warranties don’t cover everything (e.g., tyres, brakes, batteries). An inspection helps uncover issues not protected under warranty. Refer to [Consumer Affairs Victoria] for specifics.

5. When to Book a Professional Inspection

Professional inspections are recommended if:

• You’re buying from a private seller
• The service history is incomplete
• It’s an imported or high-performance vehicle

Qualified mechanics can inspect:

• Crash damage and structural integrity
• Engine diagnostics (fault codes, compression, leaks)
• Suspension, brakes, and drivetrain
• Electrical systems and sensors

Expect to pay $200–$400—a worthwhile investment compared to future repair bills.

6. Admin Essentials: Paperwork You’ll Need

• Roadworthy Certificate (mandatory in VIC, QLD, and others)
• Complete logbook and service history – Proof Of Service Report
• Two working keys
• Spare tyre, jack, and tools
• All ownership documents matching the seller’s ID

Yes—every time.

Buying from a Dealer

Pros:

• Statutory Warranties (state-dependent)
• Legal obligations to disclose faults and ensure roadworthiness
• Cooling-off periods (in some states)

Cons:

• Warranties may exclude wear and tear
• Some issues (e.g., crash history) may still be undisclosed

Buying from a Private Seller

Risks:

• No legal warranty or returns
• Inconsistent documentation
• Greater chance of hidden issues

Upside:

• More room for price negotiation

Whether you’re buying from a driveway or a dealership, inspections protect you from unwanted surprises. It’s not about who is selling—but what is being sold.

Inspection Point	Status
VIN matches registration papers	Yes/No
PPSR report is clear	Yes/No
Logbook & service history present (Proof of Service Report)	Yes/No
Even tyre tread	Yes/No
No warning lights on dashboard	Yes/No
Road test completed	Yes/No
Roadworthy Certificate provided	Yes/No
Two keys, spare tyre, and tools	Yes/No

Buying a used car in Victoria or NSW?

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1. What should I check before buying a used car in Australia?
Inspect the body for rust or paintwork, verify VIN against rego papers, request a PPSR report, review the logbook and service history, do a test drive, and confirm a valid Roadworthy Certificate is available.

2. Do I need a Proof of Service Report?
Yes you absolutely need one , this will give you peace of mind knowing the vehicle has been well maintained.

3. Do I need a PPSR report?
Yes. It reveals whether the car is under finance, written off, or stolen—protecting you from legal and financial risks.

4. How can I tell if a used car has been in an accident?
Look for uneven gaps, mismatched paint, or welds under the chassis. A professional inspection can confirm structural repairs.

5. Is a mechanic inspection really necessary?
Absolutely. DIY checks miss hidden engine faults, suspension issues, or electronic errors that professionals can catch.

6. Do all used cars come with a statutory warranty?
Only if purchased from a licensed dealer, and only under certain conditions (less than 10 years old, under 160,000 km).

7. What does a professional inspection cost?
Usually $200–$400, depending on location and vehicle type.

8. Can I buy a car without a Roadworthy Certificate?
In VIC and QLD, it’s illegal to sell a car without one. Always check the rules in your state.

9. Should I inspect a car even if it’s from a dealer?
Yes. Dealer protections don’t cover all faults. A thorough inspection ensures you know what you’re getting.