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Pre-Purchase Car Inspection Brisbane

Know exactly what you are buying before you hand over your money

Pre-Purchase Inspection - Fixacar Brisbane

About This Service

Buying a used car is one of the biggest purchases most people make. A pre-purchase inspection by an independent mechanic can reveal hidden problems that are not visible to the untrained eye - and give you the information you need to negotiate a fair price or walk away from a bad deal. Fixacar performs thorough pre-purchase inspections across all four Brisbane locations.

Private sellers and even some dealers are not always forthcoming about a vehicle's history or condition. A professional inspection takes around an hour and can save you thousands of dollars by identifying problems before you buy. It also gives you leverage to negotiate a lower price if issues are found.

When should you get a pre-purchase inspection?

  • You are buying a used car from a private seller
  • You are buying from a dealer but want independent verification
  • The vehicle has high kilometres or is more than 5 years old
  • The asking price seems too good to be true
  • The seller is reluctant to allow an inspection
  • You are buying a vehicle sight unseen or from interstate

What We Cover

Engine condition - oil leaks, smoke, unusual noises
Transmission operation - all gears, shift quality
Brake system - pads, rotors, fluid
Suspension and steering components
Tyre condition and wear pattern
Body condition - rust, accident damage, panel alignment
Underbody inspection for rust and damage
All lights and electrical systems
Air conditioning operation
OBD fault code scan
Service history review
VIN check and compliance plate verification

Pricing

Pre-purchase inspection pricing is fixed. We provide a written report covering all items inspected and our overall assessment of the vehicle's condition.

Get a Quote

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the seller refuse a pre-purchase inspection?

A private seller can refuse an inspection, but this is a significant red flag. A seller with nothing to hide will generally welcome an independent inspection. If a seller refuses, we recommend walking away.

Do I need to bring the car to you?

Yes. The vehicle needs to be brought to one of our workshops for a thorough inspection. We need to put it on a hoist to inspect the underbody properly.

How long does a pre-purchase inspection take?

A thorough pre-purchase inspection takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. We recommend booking in advance to secure a time that suits the seller.

What do I get at the end of the inspection?

We provide a written report covering all items inspected, any faults found, and our overall assessment. We will also talk you through the findings and give you our honest opinion on whether the vehicle represents good value.

Can you check a car's service history?

We can review any physical logbook or service records provided. We cannot access dealer or manufacturer service records directly, but we can identify whether the vehicle appears to have been regularly maintained based on its condition.