SERVICES

Pre-Purchase Car Inspections

Don't buy a lemon. Get a professional pre-purchase inspection before you buy any used car. We check everything and provide a detailed report so you know exactly what you're buying.

100+ Point Check Detailed Report Expert Advice
Rodz Automotive Workshop

Buy with Confidence - Professional Pre-Purchase Inspections

Buying a used car is risky. Sellers don't always disclose problems, and a quick test drive won't reveal hidden issues. At Rodz Automotive, our comprehensive pre-purchase inspections check everything from engine condition to accident history. We provide an honest, detailed report with photos and recommendations, so you can negotiate confidently or walk away from a bad deal. Servicing Frankston, Pearcedale, Langwarrin, and surrounding areas.

Common Issues We Find in Pre-Purchase Inspections

Hidden accident damage and poor repairs
Engine oil leaks and mechanical issues
Worn brakes, suspension, and steering
Electrical faults and warning lights
Rust and corrosion in critical areas
Odometer fraud and service history gaps
Timing belt overdue for replacement
Tyre wear and alignment issues

Our inspection fee is nothing compared to the thousands you could spend fixing hidden problems. It's the smartest investment you'll make when buying a used car.

What's Included in Our Pre-Purchase Inspection

Our comprehensive 100+ point inspection covers every critical system and component. We don't just tick boxes - we actually test everything and provide honest feedback.

Engine & Mechanical

Check for oil leaks, compression test, timing belt condition, coolant system, transmission operation, clutch wear (manual), and exhaust system condition.

Electronic Diagnostics

Full diagnostic scan for fault codes, check all warning lights, test electrical systems, battery health, alternator output, and sensor operation.

Brakes & Safety

Brake pad thickness, rotor condition, brake fluid quality, ABS operation, airbag system check, seat belts, and all safety systems.

Suspension & Steering

Check for worn suspension components, steering play, wheel bearings, CV joints, ball joints, shock absorbers, and alignment issues.

Body & Structure

Inspect for accident damage, panel alignment, rust in structural areas, paint thickness (detects resprays), door and window operation, and water leaks.

Tyres & Wheels

Tread depth measurement, uneven wear patterns, wheel condition, tyre age, spare tyre condition, and wheel alignment indicators.

Road Test

Test drive to check engine performance, transmission shifts, braking, steering response, noises, vibrations, and overall driveability.

Service History Review

Review service records, check for scheduled maintenance, identify overdue services, verify major repairs, and flag any red flags in the history.

How Our Pre-Purchase Inspection Works

1

Book Your Inspection

Contact us with the car details and location. We can inspect vehicles at private sellers, dealerships, or auctions.

2

Bring the Car to Us (or We Come to You)

The car can be brought to our Pearcedale workshop, or we can arrange a mobile inspection (additional fee applies for mobile service).

3

Comprehensive Inspection

We perform a thorough inspection including hoist work, diagnostics, road test, and photos of any issues found.

4

Detailed Written Report

We provide a comprehensive report with photos, listing all issues found, estimated repair costs, and our recommendation on whether to buy.

5

Make an Informed Decision

Use our report to negotiate a lower price, request repairs, or walk away. We'll explain everything in plain English over the phone.

Pre-Purchase Inspection FAQs

How much does a pre-purchase inspection cost?

Our comprehensive pre-purchase inspection starts from a competitive rate. Contact us for an exact quote. Consider that our inspection fee is minimal compared to the thousands you could spend on hidden repairs - or the cost of buying a lemon. It's cheap insurance when making a major purchase.

How long does the inspection take?

A thorough pre-purchase inspection typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on the vehicle's condition and complexity. We don't rush - we check everything properly. You'll receive your detailed report the same day.

Do you inspect cars at dealerships or private sellers?

Yes, we can inspect vehicles anywhere. The car can be brought to our workshop in Pearcedale, or we can come to the seller's location (mobile inspection fees apply). Most reputable sellers will allow an independent inspection - if a seller refuses, that's a red flag.

What if the inspection finds problems?

We provide estimated repair costs for any issues found. You can use this to negotiate a lower price, ask the seller to fix the problems, or decide not to buy the car. Many buyers save thousands by negotiating based on our reports, which easily pays for the inspection cost.

Should I get an inspection even if the car looks good?

Absolutely. Many serious problems aren't visible without proper inspection equipment and a hoist. We regularly find hidden issues in cars that look perfect. Engine compression problems, rust in hidden areas, accident damage covered by fresh paint, and electrical faults won't show up during a test drive. Don't gamble with thousands of dollars.

Do you provide PPSR checks?

We recommend all buyers perform a PPSR (Personal Property Securities Register) check before buying any used car. This checks if the car has money owing, is stolen, or has been written off. We can advise you on how to get this check done - it's separate from our mechanical inspection but equally important.

Buying a Used Car? Get It Inspected First

Don't risk buying a problem car. Our pre-purchase inspection could save you thousands. Book your inspection today.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

Trusted by drivers across Frankston

Don't just take our word for it — see what our customers have to say about their experience with Rodz Automotive.

"Cannot recommend Howard enough! Provides a very affordable, high quality service and is very honest about work done. A breath of fresh air compared to some other mechanics!"

Matt van Wijk

Google Review

6 months ago

"Howard is a car genius. I trust him with all of my cars. Reasonably priced and an honest dude. There isn't much more I ask for in a mechanic. You've got a long term customer here."

Jordan Partridge

Google Review

3 years ago

"Very thorough and fair, Howard has picked things up that would have cost a lot more later if missed! Great service and he explains everything. We moved interstate and the new mechanic commented on how well the car had been looked after. 10/10"

Alex Jackson

Google Review

6 years ago

Join hundreds of satisfied customers in Frankston and Langwarrin