Car Inspection Checklist

PRE-PURCHASE CAR INSPECTION VIDEO

Pre Purchase Car Inspection Checklist

Exterior Inspection

1. Body Condition
   • Inspect for dents, scratches, and rust spots
   • Check panel alignment and gaps
   • Inspect for signs of previous repairs or repainting
2. Glass
   • Check for chips or cracks on the windshield and windows
   • Ensure windows operate smoothly
3. Lights & Indicators
   • Test headlights (low and high beams), taillights, brake lights, reverse lights
   • Check indicators, hazard lights, and fog lights
   • Inspect for moisture or damage inside the light housings
4. Mirrors
   • Inspect for damage or cracks
   • Ensure mirrors adjust properly
5. Tyres and Wheels
   • Check tyre tread depth and even wear
   • Inspect tyre sidewalls for cracks or bulges
   • Check wheel rims for damage or bends
   • Confirm tyre pressures
   • Inspect spare tyre and tools (jack, lug wrench)
6. Suspension
   • Look for leaks, rust, or damage to struts and shocks
   • Check for sagging or uneven height

Interior Inspection

1. Seats & Upholstery
   • Inspect for tears, stains, or excessive wear
   • Test seat adjustments and recline mechanisms
   • Check for seat heating or cooling functions
2. Seatbelts
   • Test seatbelt retractors and locks
   • Inspect for fraying or damage
3. Dashboard & Controls
   • Check dashboard warning lights for any faults
   • Test all buttons, switches, and knobs (climate control, wipers, etc.)
   • Inspect instrument panel for proper function (speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge)
4. Air Conditioning & Heating
   • Test cooling and heating effectiveness
   • Check air circulation and defrosting functions
5. Windows & Locks
   • Test power windows for smooth operation
   • Ensure all locks (manual or automatic) work correctly
   • Inspect sunroof or convertible top (if applicable)
6. Audio System
   • Test radio, CD player, Bluetooth, and other audio inputs
   • Check speaker sound quality
7. Odour
   • Note any unusual smells (mould, smoke, or fuel odours)

Engine & Mechanical Components

1. Engine Bay
   • Inspect for oil, coolant, or fluid leaks
   • Check engine mounts for wear or damage
   • Inspect belts and hoses for cracks or wear
2. Oil Level & Condition
   • Check engine oil level
   • Inspect oil for clarity and signs of contaminants
3. Coolant
   • Check coolant level and inspect for leaks
   • Ensure coolant is clean, with no rust or debris
4. Transmission Fluid
   • Inspect transmission fluid level (for automatics)
   • Check fluid condition (clear, no burnt smell)
   • In come models where there is no dipstick, no need to check
5. Battery
   • Inspect battery terminals for corrosion
   • Test battery voltage and health
   • Check the date of manufacture (replace if necessary)
6. Brakes
   • Check brake pad thickness
   • Inspect brake discs/rotors for wear or warping
   • Test brake fluid level
   • Ensure parking brake functions properly
7. Power Steering
   • Check power steering fluid level
   • Inspect for leaks in the steering pump or lines
   • Test steering for smoothness and responsiveness
8. Exhaust System
   • Inspect exhaust for leaks, rust, or damage
   • Listen for unusual noises during idle and acceleration

Underbody Inspection

1. Chassis
   • Inspect for rust, cracks, or structural damage
   • Check for signs of previous accidents or repairs
2. Suspension
   • Inspect shocks, struts, and suspension components for wear or damage
3. Exhaust
   • Check exhaust system for leaks or corrosion
4. Brakes
   • Inspect brake lines for rust, leaks, or wear
   • Check the condition of brake callipers
5. Driveline & Transmission
   • Inspect CV joints, driveshafts, and differentials for leaks or wear
   • Check transmission case for damage or leaks

Test Drive

1. Starting the Engine
   • Listen for unusual noises (tapping, knocking, or whining)
   • Check for smoke from the exhaust
   • Ensure dashboard warning lights turn off after starting
2. Acceleration & Deceleration
   • Test throttle response and engine power
   • Check for smooth acceleration and deceleration
3. Braking
   • Test brakes for responsiveness and smooth stopping
   • Listen for squeaking or grinding noises
4. Steering
   • Test for smooth and precise steering
   • Check for pulling or drifting to one side
5. Transmission
   • Test for smooth gear changes (automatic or manual)
   • Check for any unusual noises or slipping during shifts
6. Suspension & Ride Comfort
   • Test the vehicle over bumps and uneven roads
   • Check for excessive bouncing or harshness
7. Noise & Vibration
   • Listen for unusual noises from the engine, suspension, or tyres
   • Feel for any unusual vibrations while driving

In Hybrid Cars

1. Hybrid Battery Performance
   • Listen for unusual noises when the car is on. Look for whining sound
   • Check the hybrid battery charging when driving
   • Drive on EV mode below 20 Km/h to ensure the engine does not turn on
   • Check the regen braking to ensure it charges the battery
   • Monitor the battery charge to see it does not drain quickly

4WD CAR INSPECTION CHECKLIST

4WD cars differ from normal cars because they have additional components designed for off-road and tough terrain driving. These include a transfer case, locking differentials, and more complex suspension systems to distribute power to all four wheels. These extra parts require specialised inspection and maintenance to ensure reliable performance both on and off-road.

Here is 4wd Pre Purchase Car Inspection Checklist:

Exterior Inspection

1. Body Condition
   • Check for dents, scratches, rust, and signs of off-road damage
   • Inspect for proper panel alignment and gaps
   • Check for signs of previous repairs or repainting
2. Glass
   • Inspect for cracks or chips on windshields and windows
   • Ensure windows operate smoothly
3. Lights
   • Test headlights, taillights, indicators, and fog lights
   • Inspect for moisture inside the light housings
4. Mirrors
   • Check for cracks, damage, or loose mounts
   • Ensure mirrors adjust correctly
5. Tyres & Wheels
   • Inspect tyre tread depth, even wear, and off-road capability (all-terrain or mud-terrain)
   • Check sidewalls for damage, cracks, or bulges
   • Inspect rims for cracks or dents
   • Confirm tyre pressures, including the spare tyre
   • Check for proper off-road tyre sizing and condition
6. Suspension & Lift Kits
   • Inspect shocks, struts, and coil springs for leaks or damage
   • Check for any aftermarket lift kits and inspect installation quality
   • Inspect suspension bushes and mounts for wear or damage

Interior Inspection

1. Seats & Upholstery
   • Check for tears, stains, or excessive wear
   • Test seat adjustments and recline mechanisms
   • Check for seat heating or cooling functions (if applicable)
2. Dashboard & Controls
   • Inspect dashboard warning lights for any faults
   • Test all buttons, switches, and knobs (climate control, 4WD selector, etc.)
   • Check instrument panel for proper functioning (speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge)
3. Air Conditioning & Heating
   • Test cooling and heating effectiveness
   • Ensure proper air circulation and defrosting
4. Windows & Locks
   • Test power windows and locks for smooth operation
   • Check manual locks and window cranks for wear
5. 4WD System Controls
   • Test 4WD selector switch or gear lever for proper engagement
   • Inspect any differential lock buttons and ensure they function properly
6. Odour
   • Check for any unusual smells (burnt oil, fuel, mould)

Engine & Mechanical Components

1. Engine Bay
   • Check for oil, coolant, or fluid leaks
   • Inspect engine mounts for wear or damage
   • Inspect belts, hoses, and wiring for cracks or wear
   • Ensure air filter is clean and securely fitted (check for off-road dust accumulation)
2. Oil Level and Condition
   • Check engine oil level and condition
   • Inspect for signs of oil contamination (such as water or metal particles)
3. Coolant
   • Inspect coolant level and condition
   • Check for leaks or overheating signs, especially after off-road use
4. Transmission Fluid
   • Inspect fluid levels (manual/automatic)
   • Check fluid condition for contamination or signs of burning
5. Battery
   • Inspect battery terminals for corrosion
   • Test battery voltage and health
   • Check mounting bracket for security
6. Brakes
   • Check brake pad thickness and rotor condition
   • Inspect brake fluid level and condition
   • Test parking brake function
7. Power Steering
   • Inspect power steering fluid levels and for leaks
   • Test for smooth and responsive steering
8. Exhaust System
   • Inspect for damage, leaks, or corrosion, especially from off-road use
   • Check for any modifications (e.g., snorkel for water crossings)

Drivetrain & 4WD-Specific Components

1. Transfer Case
   • Inspect for oil leaks
   • Test the operation of the transfer case in 4WD high and low ranges
   • Check for any abnormal noises during engagement
2. Differentials
   • Inspect front and rear differentials for leaks or damage
   • Test for smooth engagement of locking differentials (if equipped)
   • Inspect differential oil for contamination
3. Axles & CV Joints
   • Inspect axles and CV joints for wear or damage
   • Check CV boots for tears or leaks
4. Driveshafts & U-Joints
   • Inspect for wear, damage, or excessive play
   • Check for grease leakage at U-joints

Underbody Inspection

1. Chassis & Frame
   • Inspect for rust, cracks, or damage, especially from off-road use
   • Look for signs of structural stress or modifications
2. Suspension
   • Inspect shocks, struts, and suspension components for wear or damage
   • Check for proper articulation and clearance for off-road driving
3. Skid Plates & Underbody Protection
   • Inspect skid plates and underbody guards for damage
   • Check for loose or missing bolts on aftermarket armour
4. Fuel Tank & Lines
   • Inspect fuel tank and lines for leaks or damage
   • Ensure proper mounting and protection from off-road debris
5. Exhaust System
   • Inspect for leaks or damage from off-road impacts
   • Check for secure mounting
6. Brakes
   • Inspect brake lines for damage or rust
   • Check the condition of brake callipers and mounting brackets

Test Drive

1. Starting the Engine
   • Listen for unusual noises (knocking, tapping, etc.)
   • Check for excessive exhaust smoke
2. 4WD System Engagement
   • Test the shift into 4WD high and low ranges
   • Check for smooth operation and no unusual noises
3. Acceleration and Deceleration
   • Test for smooth throttle response
   • Check for engine power under load, especially when in 4WD
4. Steering and Handling
   • Test for smooth steering, especially in tight turns
   • Check for pulling or vibrations
5. Braking
   • Test the brakes for responsiveness and smooth stopping
   • Listen for any grinding or squeaking noises
6. Suspension and Ride Comfort
   • Assess ride quality over bumps and rough terrain
   • Test the suspension’s ability to absorb impacts
7. Noise and Vibration
   • Listen for abnormal noises from the drivetrain, suspension, or engine
   • Check for unusual vibrations at different speeds or under load

ELECTRIC CAR INSPECTION CHECKLIST

Electric cars differ from conventional cars as they do not have many of the same components. Traditional parts like fuel engines, exhaust systems, and transmissions are replaced by electric motors and battery packs. EVs also lack components such as oil filters, spark plugs, and fuel tanks. Instead, they rely on electrical systems, power inverters, and regenerative braking, making their maintenance and inspection requirements unique.

Here is the list of items that need to be inspected in electric cars:

Exterior Inspection

1. Body Condition
   • Check for dents, scratches, and rust
   • Inspect panel alignment and paint condition
   • Check for signs of previous repairs or repainting
2. Glass
   • Inspect for cracks, chips, or damage on windshields and windows
   • Ensure windows and sunroof (if applicable) operate smoothly
3. Lights
   • Test headlights (low and high beams), taillights, brake lights, and indicators
   • Inspect LED lights for flickering or dimming issues
4. Mirrors
   • Check for damage and proper adjustment
5. Tyres & Wheels
   • Inspect tyre tread depth and even wear
   • Check tyre pressures and sidewalls for damage or bulges
   • Inspect wheels for cracks, bends, or damage
6. Charging Port
   • Inspect the charging port for damage or dirt accumulation
   • Test the charging mechanism with a plug-in (if accessible)

Interior Inspection

1. Seats & Upholstery
   • Check for tears, stains, or excessive wear
   • Test seat adjustments and heating/cooling functions
2. Dashboard & Controlst
   • Inspect the instrument panel for error messages or warnings
   • Check touchscreen and infotainment systems for proper functionality
   • Test controls for climate, audio, and other systems
3. Air Conditioning & Heating
   • Test the air conditioning and heating performance
   • Check defrost and climate control functions
4. Windows & Locks
   • Test power windows and door locks
   • Check keyless entry and push-button start systems
5. Regenerative Braking Settings
   • Test different levels of regenerative braking (if applicable)
6. Odour
   • Check for any unusual smells, especially burning or electrical odours

Battery & Electrical Systems

1. Battery Health
   • Use diagnostic tools to check the current state of charge (SoC)
   • Inspect the battery health and degradation percentage
   • Check for error codes related to battery or charging
2. Charging System
   • Test charging with a Level 1 or Level 2 charger (if possible)
   • Inspect the condition of the charging cable
   • Check charging speeds and any charging errors
3. Battery Cooling System
   • Inspect the cooling system for leaks or malfunction
   • Test for overheating issues during operation or charging
4. High Voltage System
   • Inspect high voltage cables for wear, damage, or corrosion
   • Check for proper insulation and secure connections
5. 12V Auxiliary Battery
   • Test the 12V battery health and charge level
   • Inspect connections for corrosion
6. Electrical Components
   • Test all interior and exterior electrical components (lights, infotainment, etc.)
   • Ensure proper function of EV-specific features like regenerative braking

Motor & Powertrain

1. Electric Motor
   • Listen for any unusual noises during operation (humming, whining, etc.)
   • Test motor performance during acceleration and deceleration
   • Inspect motor mounts for wear or damage
2. Inverter & Converter
   • Inspect for warning signs or error codes
   • Ensure proper cooling and lack of overheating
3. Drivetrain
   • Check for any noise or vibrations during driving
   • Inspect for leaks, wear, or damage to motor couplings and axles
4. Transmission (if applicable)
   • Check for smooth operation during gear changes in dual-motor systems

Underbody Inspection

1. Battery Pack Condition
   • Inspect for physical damage to the battery casing or underbody protection
   • Check for any signs of leaks or corrosion around the battery
2. Chassis and Frame
   • Inspect for rust, cracks, or structural damage
   • Check for signs of previous repairs
3. Suspension and Steering
   • Inspect shocks, struts, and other suspension components for wear or damage
   • Test steering components for smooth operation and leaks
4. Brakes
   • Check brake pad and rotor condition
   • Inspect brake lines for wear or leaks
   • Ensure regenerative braking functions correctly
5. Exhaust System
   • N/A (unless the vehicle is a hybrid)

Test Drive

1. Starting the Car
   • Ensure smooth start-up with no error messages or warning lights
   • Listen for unusual noises (electric whine, motor hum, etc.)
2. Acceleration and Deceleration
   • Test smoothness and responsiveness during acceleration
   • Test regenerative braking for proper functioning at different levels
3. Steering and Handling
   • Check for smooth steering response and any pulling to one side
   • Test for any unusual vibrations or noises
4. Braking
   • Test the responsiveness of both mechanical and regenerative braking systems
   • Listen for squeaks or grinding noises from the brake system
5. Battery Performance During Drive
   • Monitor battery charge and energy consumption rates
   • Check for battery drain issues during driving
6. Ride Comfort
   • Assess the ride quality over bumps and uneven surfaces

Software & Diagnostics

1. Software Version
   • Check if the software is up to date
   • Confirm that over-the-air updates (if applicable) are functioning correctly
2. Error Codes if You Have a Diagnostic Tool
   • Run diagnostics to detect any hidden or pending error codes
   • Check for battery, motor, inverter, or electrical system faults
3. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
   • Test features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking
   • Ensure cameras, radar, and sensors are functioning properly

INVOLVE A PROFESSIONAL CAR INSPECTOR

If you're considering buying a valuable car but don't have the tools or expertise to inspect it yourself, it's essential to hire a professional inspector for a pre-purchase inspection. A high-value vehicle, whether it's a luxury car, performance car, or a classic, requires thorough and specialised attention to ensure you're not overlooking any critical issues. Professional inspectors have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to assess every component of the car, from the engine and drivetrain to the electronics and hidden systems that might go unnoticed by an untrained eye.

One of the key benefits of hiring an inspector is the access to diagnostic tools that allow them to run fault codes and detect issues within the car’s electronic systems, which may not be obvious during a visual check. These systems are especially crucial in modern vehicles, where even small electrical faults can lead to expensive repairs. A professional will also check for signs of previous accidents, hidden repairs, or body damage that might affect the vehicle's structural integrity or value.

Involving a professional can save you from costly surprises down the line. They will inspect components such as brakes, suspension, and powertrain, which can be expensive to repair or replace, especially in high-end vehicles. They can also assess the car's history, including past maintenance records and potential signs of wear that might indicate underlying problems.

A professional pre-purchase inspection gives you peace of mind, knowing that you're making an informed decision. If you're investing a significant amount of money into a vehicle, a professional inspector can help ensure that your purchase is a good investment, not a potential money pit. They can also help negotiate the price by identifying faults that may warrant a lower price or further repairs. In some cases, they may advise against the purchase entirely if the car's condition doesn’t justify the asking price.

you can use our service if you are in Australia and within our coverage area or a reputable inspection company close to where you are. To check our coverage please refer to our Locations page. To see the list of our services, please refer to our Services page.

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