Introduction

Buying a used car in Australia can be both exciting and daunting. With the average new car losing around 20% of its value in the first year alone, purchasing a pre-owned vehicle often makes financial sense. However, without proper checks, you might end up with ongoing headaches and unexpected expenses.

At Picrosommi, we've helped thousands of Australians navigate the used car market successfully. This comprehensive guide outlines the essential checks you should perform before finalizing any used car purchase in Australia.

Before You Inspect: Research and Preparation

Before even arranging an inspection, do your due diligence with these preliminary steps:

1. Know the Market Value

Understanding the fair market price for the specific make, model, year, and condition helps you negotiate effectively and avoid overpaying. Resources like Redbook, Glass's Guide, and CarsGuide provide reliable valuation tools for the Australian market.

2. Research Common Issues

Every vehicle model has known issues or weak points. For example, certain European imports might have expensive parts, while some Japanese models from specific years might have transmission problems. Online forums, model-specific groups, and automotive publications can provide insights into common problems for your target car.

3. Check Recalls

Visit the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) Product Safety website to check if the vehicle model has been subject to any recalls. If it has, verify that the necessary repairs or modifications have been completed.

Documentation and History Checks

Once you've found a potential car, reviewing its documentation is crucial:

1. PPSR Check (formerly REVS Check)

A Personal Property Securities Register check is essential to ensure:

  • The car isn't under finance (money still owed by the current owner)
  • The vehicle hasn't been reported stolen
  • The car hasn't been written off previously

For around $2-$25 (depending on the provider), this check can save you thousands in potential problems. The official PPSR website or services like CarHistory provide comprehensive reports.

2. Service History

A complete service history indicates a well-maintained vehicle. Check for:

  • Regular servicing at appropriate intervals (typically every 10,000-15,000 km or 6-12 months)
  • Stamps or documentation from reputable service centers
  • Records of major components being replaced or serviced
  • Timing belt/chain replacement (if applicable for the model)

Missing service records could indicate neglected maintenance or attempts to hide issues.

3. Registration Status

Verify the registration status through your state's transport authority:

  • NSW: Service NSW
  • VIC: VicRoads
  • QLD: Department of Transport and Main Roads
  • WA: Department of Transport
  • SA: Service SA
  • TAS: Transport Tasmania
  • NT: Motor Vehicle Registry
  • ACT: Access Canberra

Check how long the registration is valid and if there are any restrictions on the registration.

4. Roadworthy Certificate

In most Australian states, a roadworthy certificate (also known as a safety certificate in Queensland) is required when selling a used car. This document confirms the vehicle meets basic safety standards but isn't a comprehensive mechanical assessment.

Physical Inspection: Exterior Checks

Now it's time for the hands-on inspection, starting with the exterior:

1. Body Condition

Look for:

  • Panel gaps: Uneven spacing between panels could indicate previous damage or poor repairs
  • Paint consistency: Different shades or textures suggest repainting, possibly after repairs
  • Ripples or waviness: Signs of body filler used to repair damage
  • Rust: Check around wheel arches, door bottoms, and underneath the car

Inspect the car in daylight and, if possible, after rain (water can reveal leaks and previously hidden repairs).

2. Glass and Lights

  • Check all windows for cracks, chips, or delamination
  • Verify all lights (headlights, indicators, brake lights, reverse lights) are working and not cracked or fogged
  • Look for windscreen wiper damage or ineffectiveness

3. Tyres

Tyre condition reveals much about the car's maintenance and can be expensive to replace:

  • Check tread depth (should be at least 1.5mm across the tyre's entire width)
  • Look for uneven wear (could indicate alignment or suspension issues)
  • Check for cracks, bulges, or damage to sidewalls
  • Verify the spare tyre condition and ensure all necessary tools are present
  • Check that all tyres are the same brand and size (mismatched tyres can indicate cost-cutting by the owner)

Interior Inspection

The interior condition offers clues about the car's overall care and potential issues:

1. Odometer Reading

The mileage should be consistent with the car's age (typically 15,000-20,000 km per year is average in Australia). Be suspicious if:

  • The mileage seems too low for the car's age
  • Service records show inconsistent odometer readings
  • The condition of pedals, steering wheel, or driver's seat doesn't match the claimed mileage

2. Electronics and Features

Test every button, switch, and feature:

  • Air conditioning and heating
  • Power windows and mirrors
  • Infotainment system, navigation, and speakers
  • All instrument panel functions and warning lights
  • Seat adjustments and heaters (if equipped)
  • Sunroof operation (if equipped)

3. Upholstery and Interior Condition

  • Check seats for excessive wear, tears, stains, or burns
  • Look for moisture or dampness that could indicate leaks
  • Check for unusual odors that might suggest water damage or other issues
  • Verify that all seat belts retract properly and latch securely

Mechanical Inspection

This is arguably the most critical part of your assessment:

1. Engine

  • Cold start: The engine should start promptly with no excessive smoke or unusual noises
  • Engine bay: Look for fluid leaks, corroded battery terminals, cracked belts or hoses
  • Oil: Check the dipstick for proper level and color (clean oil should be amber; black oil is old; milky oil could indicate serious problems)
  • Radiator fluid: Should be clean and at the proper level
  • Exhaust smoke: Excessive or colored smoke often indicates problems (blue = oil burning, white = coolant issue, black = rich fuel mixture)

2. Transmission

  • Automatic transmission: Shifts should be smooth with no slipping, jerking, or delayed engagement
  • Manual transmission: Clutch should engage smoothly without slipping, and gears should shift easily without grinding
  • Transmission fluid: Should be red or pink, not brown or burnt-smelling

3. Brakes and Suspension

  • Test the brakes for even stopping power without pulling to one side
  • Listen for grinding or squealing when braking
  • Check for excessive play in the steering
  • Drive over bumps to test suspension (the car should recover quickly without excessive bouncing)
  • Listen for knocking or clunking noises from the suspension

The Test Drive

Always test drive any used car before purchase, ideally for at least 20-30 minutes on various road types:

Test Drive Checklist:

  • Drive on both suburban streets and highways if possible
  • Accelerate firmly (not aggressively) to test power delivery
  • Test braking at different speeds
  • Check the car's behavior during tight turns
  • Pay attention to unusual noises or vibrations
  • Test hill climbing ability if terrain permits
  • Try parking to check visibility and maneuverability

During the test drive, turn off the radio and ask passengers to remain quiet so you can listen for any unusual sounds.

Professional Inspection

Even with a thorough personal inspection, having a professional mechanic examine the car is highly recommended. Organizations like RACV, NRMA, RACQ, RAA, RACT, AANT, or RAC offer pre-purchase inspection services for around $100-$300.

A professional inspector can:

  • Put the car on a hoist to check the underside thoroughly
  • Use diagnostic equipment to check computer systems and fault codes
  • Identify issues that might not be apparent during a test drive
  • Provide an unbiased assessment of the vehicle's condition

This cost is minimal compared to potential repair expenses for overlooked issues.

Negotiation and Purchase

Once you're satisfied with the condition:

  • Use any identified issues as negotiation points
  • Get any agreed repairs in writing before finalizing the purchase
  • Ensure all paperwork is correctly completed, including transfer of registration
  • Pay securely, ideally through bank transfer or other traceable methods rather than cash
  • Obtain receipts for all transactions

Conclusion

Buying a used car doesn't have to be a gamble if you approach it methodically. By conducting thorough research, carefully inspecting documentation, performing a detailed physical examination, and arranging a professional inspection, you can significantly reduce your risks.

At Picrosommi, all our pre-owned vehicles undergo a comprehensive 100-point inspection before being offered for sale, and we provide complete service histories and PPSR checks for your peace of mind.

Remember that spending extra time and perhaps a few hundred dollars on proper checks before purchase can save you thousands in unexpected repairs and ensure you drive away with a reliable vehicle that meets your needs.

Visit our showroom to explore our selection of quality-assured used vehicles, or contact our team for personalized advice on your next car purchase.