You should always inspect a car before purchasing it. But knowing what to look for can be tough.
Here’s our quick used car buying guide to help you get it done. If you’re not feeling confident, can’t get there, or simply want to leave it to the experts, book a pre-purchase vehicle inspection with us!
Our expert mechanics have developed a list of things you should be looking for when inspecting a used car yourself or to help you understand the snazzy pre-purchase vehicle inspection report from the Swoop team.
Keep an eye out for any bumps, scrapes, panels that don’t quite line up, paint that doesn’t match, paint overspray, rust and hail damage. This can give you a clear picture of the vehicle’s condition and repair history.
Have a look at the seats, carpet and any interior plastics. If you spot any stains, cracks or wear that’s inconsistent with the car’s age, take note. And don’t forget the seatbelts – they should work smoothly and the locking mechanism should function correctly.
Cross-check the vehicle’s Vehicle Registration Number (VIN) plate with the registration papers. You will find the VIN engraved in a small silver plate in the engine compartment. This plate will also give you the details on the build and compliance dates of the vehicle.
Not an easy job, but the engine is an important area of the car to inspect. Turn the car on and ensure the engine runs smoothly and quietly at idle and while driving. When you take the vehicle for a test drive, just be mindful of how the engine sounds. While test driving or turning the car on, keep an eye out for any warning lights on the dashboard.
Signs of transmission problems can include leaking or dirty transmission fluid. In a manual vehicle, you will want to ensure the gears move smoothly and that the clutch has some pressure. A soft clutch can indicate leaking fluid lines.
Check out the engine oil dipstick located in the engine bay – it usually has a bright yellow or orange handle. You’re looking for a clean, honey-coloured oil. You don’t want to spot any dirt, clumps or oil that’s turned black.
Ensure the engine has cooled down before you attempt to check the coolant. You will be looking for sufficient coolant supply and a clean and brightly coloured fluid (typically green or red).
Look around the engine compartment and underneath the car for signs of oil, coolant or other leaks that might indicate poor maintenance and potential repairs.
Checking the lights on the vehicle is simple. Turn the car on and check the headlights and taillights function correctly, as well as the brake lights, indicators, reversing lights and number plate lights.
Have a look around the vehicle at the condition of the tyres (don’t forget the spare!). You will be looking for signs of uneven wear and tread indicators to ensure the tyres won’t need replacing soon. Your spare tyre may also come with a jack and toolkit – don’t forget to assess the condition of these too. There’s nothing worse than being stuck without them!
The exhaust system should not produce black, blue or white smoke. Keep an eye out for excessive noise or knocking from the exhaust, which could indicate an issue.
A quick check of the functions of other accessories through the vehicle is important to rule out any other repairs that may be required. Check that the air conditioning and fan, power windows and mirrors, navigation and media system, parking sensors, and reversing camera are all functioning. If there are any extra accessories or equipment that come with the vehicle, be sure to check them out too.
Most cars clock up around 20,000 kilometres per year, so what is considered good mileage depends on various factors. Most vehicles getting closer to the 200,000km mark are more likely to require a higher level of maintenance.
However, higher kilometres don’t always mean the vehicle isn’t worth your time. If the service history is up to scratch, the car is kept in good condition, and the brand of car has a good reputation, you might find that issues don’t arise for some time.
When test driving a vehicle, be sure to check all controls and switches are functioning, including wipes, lights, audio systems, and air conditioning.
Ensure mechanical functions are up to scratch including the brakes, accelerator, and transmission. You should attempt to park the vehicle to test out reversing cameras, sensors and get an idea of blind spots.
Listen to the engine sounds, exhaust system and general road noise and make note of anything unusual.
Our pre-purchase vehicle inspections cover all of this and much, much more! If you don’t know what to look for, issues can be hard to find. Find out more about the process our expert mechanics take here.
Book now to secure your pre-purchase vehicle inspection for peace of mind!
Swoop Vehicle Inspections operates on the lands of the Awabakal people. We pay our deepest respects to the Awabakal Elders past, present, and emerging, honouring their living connection to the land, waters and sky. We acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded. We acknowledge that we benefit from living and working on these lands.
This land is Aboriginal land, always was, is, and always will be.
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