If you're about to buy a used car, it pays to check the vehicle thoroughly to ensure you are getting value for money.
Listed below are some basic checks that should be carried out.
Beneath the car :
Uneven tyre wear could mean misaligned steering or suspension that may be expensive to rectify.
Check for leaks from the engine, transmission, suspension, brakes and rear axle.
The bodywork :
Variations in paintwork colour, or door panels that don’t line up can indicate previous smash damage.
Check carefully around the wheel-arches for any rust problems.
The engine :
If the engine oil is grey or milky, it's a sign of water in the oil.
Worse, any sign of oil in the radiator water can mean a cracked cylinder head or faulty head gasket.
Remember, if the car isn’t fitted with an Australian Compliance Plate, it’s probably best to walk away from the deal, no matter how tempting it might seem.
Re-purchase inspection If you need to be sure about a vehicle, we suggest that you invest in our 150 Point Comprehensive Condition Report. You receive a fully itemised written report which details all aspects of the vehicle’s overall condition, and offers a thorough understanding of the vehicle’s overall condition.