Pre-purchase car inspection in Melbourne
Buying a used car in Melbourne? Tell us about it and where it is, and we'll connect you with a local mechanic who can inspect it before you pay.
InspectaCar does not charge a dollar for pre-purchase inspections. We just connect you with local mechanics who use the InspectaCar platform. The mechanics set their own prices, typically between $150 and $300, though it varies.
- Any car you are about to buy: dealer, private seller or auction
- A local mechanic gets in touch to arrange the inspection
Thanks, we've got your booking request
We'll be in touch on the number you gave to confirm a time.
How it works
- Send your details. Tell us your name and number, where the car is, and its make, model, year and kilometres. Add the seller's name and number if you have them, so the mechanic can arrange a time to see the car.
- We match you with a local mechanic. We pass your booking request to a local mechanic who uses the InspectaCar platform. They get in touch to arrange a time and go over the details with you.
- Decide with the facts. The mechanic inspects the car and tells you what they find, so you can buy it, negotiate the price or walk away.
Roadworthy certificate or pre-purchase inspection in Victoria?
In Victoria, a private seller generally has to give the buyer a valid roadworthy certificate (RWC) when selling a registered car. It is issued by a licensed vehicle tester and is valid for 30 days. Check VicRoads or Consumer Affairs Victoria for the current rules, including the exemptions.
An RWC confirms that the car met a minimum safety standard on the day it was tested. It is not designed to tell you about the condition of the engine and gearbox, signs of past accident repairs, or what the car is likely to cost you to run.
A pre-purchase inspection is for you, before you commit to the car. The mechanic looks at its overall condition and tells you what they find, so you can buy it, negotiate the price or walk away. It is not a roadworthy certificate, and a roadworthy certificate is not a pre-purchase inspection.
What a pre-purchase inspection usually covers
The mechanic will confirm exactly what their inspection includes. Typically it looks at:
- Panels, paint and signs of previous repairs
- Tyres, brakes, suspension and steering
- Engine, gearbox, fluids, belts and leaks
- Interior, air conditioning, electrics and warning lights
- A road test, where the seller allows it
- Service history and the odometer reading
Common questions
How much does it cost?
InspectaCar does not charge a dollar. The mechanic who does the inspection sets their own price, typically between $150 and $300, though it varies.
Is a pre-purchase inspection the same as a roadworthy certificate in Victoria?
No. A roadworthy certificate is a minimum safety check issued by a licensed vehicle tester, and in Victoria a private seller generally has to provide one for a registered car. A pre-purchase inspection is a mechanic's opinion of the car's overall condition, for you as the buyer. It does not replace an RWC. Check VicRoads for the rules that apply to your purchase.
Who will contact me?
A local mechanic we match with your booking request. We pass them your name, phone number, email (if you gave one), the car details and the seller's contact details (if you gave them) so they can get in touch. Read our privacy policy.
What if the car is at a dealer or an auction?
Tell us where the car is and who is selling it. The mechanic will confirm what is possible when they contact you.