A used car can look clean and drive well on a short test drive and still hide an expensive problem. Andrew’s Mechanical carries out pre-purchase inspections at our workshop at 3 Goulburn St, Kings Park. If you are looking for a pre purchase inspection in Blacktown or nearby, we are a short drive away and a few minutes’ walk from Marayong station. We inspect all makes, including European cars, 4WDs and diesels.
What we look at
A typical inspection can include the areas below. It is a visual check and road test without dismantling anything, and we will confirm what is covered when you book.
- Engine – how it starts and runs, oil and coolant condition, leaks, belts and hoses.
- Electronics – a scan for stored fault codes and a check that warning lights behave as they should.
- Transmission and driveline – clutch or automatic gearbox operation, CV joints and boots.
- Brakes, suspension and steering – pads, rotors, shock absorbers, bushes and steering components.
- Cooling system and air conditioning – radiator, hoses and whether the aircon blows cold.
- Tyres, body and underside – tyre wear, rust, signs of previous accident repairs, and the exhaust.
- Battery and charging system – battery condition and alternator output.
Ask us when you book what the inspection covers for the type of car you’re buying and how we’ll go through the results with you.
When to book an inspection
- You’re buying privately, where you have fewer protections than buying from a licensed dealer.
- The car is older, has high kilometres, or comes without a full service history.
- It’s a European car, 4WD or diesel, where some repairs can be costly.
- You’re about to pay a deposit and want to know what you’re committing to.
Warning signs to look for yourself
- Blue or white smoke from the exhaust when the engine is first started.
- Oil that looks milky on the dipstick or under the oil cap.
- Warning lights that stay on, or don’t come on at all when the ignition is switched on.
- Paint that doesn’t match between panels, or uneven gaps around doors and the bonnet.
- A clutch that bites high, or an automatic that thumps into gear.
- A seller who won’t let the car be inspected.
Before you buy, also check the car’s registration status with Service NSW and run a PPSR search to see whether there is money owing on it or it has been recorded as written off.
Arranging the inspection
The car needs to come to the workshop for the inspection, so arrange with the seller to bring it to 3 Goulburn St, Kings Park, or bring it yourself if you’ve agreed on a test drive. If the car is due for rego and needs a safety check, ask about a pink slip at the same time. If you’re selling, a vehicle safety check before sale or transfer helps you deal with any issues before a buyer finds them.
Why book with us
- We are a licensed NSW motor vehicle repairer, licence MVRL47744.
- We are an Authorised Inspection Station for pink slips and carry out AUVIS (blue slip) inspections.
- We work on all makes, including European, 4WD and diesel vehicles, and do our own engine diagnostics.
- We’re local, in Kings Park near Marayong station, close to Blacktown, Kings Langley and Quakers Hill.
- Call the workshop during opening hours to book.
Frequently asked questions
Is a pre-purchase inspection the same as a pink slip?
No. A pink slip checks the safety items required to renew rego. A pre-purchase inspection looks more broadly at the car’s mechanical condition so you know what you’re buying. We do both.
Can the seller drop the car off for me?
Yes, as long as the seller agrees to bring the car to the workshop. Call us to book a time that suits both of you.
Do you inspect European cars, 4WDs and diesels?
Yes. We work on all makes. Tell us the make, model and engine when you call.
What should I check myself before booking?
Look at the service history, check the rego status with Service NSW, run a PPSR search, and look for warning lights, smoke on start-up and mismatched paint. Then book the inspection before you pay a deposit.