Used Car Buying Guide

Before You Inspect

Research the specific make, model, and generation before viewing any vehicle. Check common faults on Australian owner forums, recall databases (productsafety.gov.au), and RedBook or Glass's Guide for current market pricing.

Request the VIN, registration number, and odometer reading before attending. Run a PPSR search ($2) to check for finance owing, stolen status, or write-off history.

47-Point Inspection Checklist

Exterior (12 points)

• Panel alignment and consistent gap widths
• Paint colour and texture match across all panels
• Signs of overspray on trim, rubber seals, or glass edges
• Rust — check wheel arches, sills, boot floor, and door bottoms
• Windscreen condition — chips, cracks, or improper seal
• All exterior lights functional including fog and brake lights
• Tyre tread depth and even wear pattern on all four corners
• Tyre manufacture date (DOT code — avoid tyres older than 5 years)
• Wheel condition — curb damage or cracks
• Suspension bounce test — push each corner, should rebound once
• Underbody inspection for leaks, damage, or fresh undercoating
• Exhaust condition — excessive rust or smoke on startup

Interior (10 points)

• Odometer reading matches service records and wear indicators
• Seat wear consistent with claimed kilometres
• All seat belts function and show no fraying
• Air conditioning blows cold within 30 seconds
• All windows, mirrors, and central locking operate
• Infotainment and reverse camera functional
• No musty smell indicating water ingress
• Carpet and headliner condition — stains or sagging suggest leaks
• Dashboard warning lights extinguish after startup
• Spare tyre, jack, and tools present

Mechanical (15 points)

• Cold start — allow engine to start from cold if possible
• No blue smoke (oil burning) or white smoke (coolant leak) at startup
• Engine idle smooth and stable — no hunting or misfiring
• Engine oil clean and at correct level on dipstick
• Coolant clean and at correct level — no oily residue
• Automatic transmission shifts smoothly through all gears
• Manual clutch engagement point and no slipping under load
• Steering straight on flat road — no pull or vibration
• Brakes stop straight without pulsing or grinding
• No knocks over bumps — suspension and bushings
• Power steering quiet — no whining at full lock
• 4WD/AWD engagement if applicable
• No fluid leaks visible after test drive (park on clean surface)
• Handbrake holds on incline
• Independent pre-purchase inspection ($150–$250) for final verification

Documentation (10 points)

• PPSR/REVS check clear — no finance owing
• Registration current and matches seller details
• Service history complete with dates and kilometre readings
• Two sets of keys available
• Owner's manual and service book present
• Receipt for recent major work (timing belt, clutch, etc.)
• Roadworthy certificate if required in your state
• Transfer form (rego transfer) ready
• No outstanding recalls unaddressed
• Written agreement on price, inclusions, and settlement date