A used European car can be a brilliant buy. You get the engineering, comfort and safety of an Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo or Volkswagen at a fraction of the new price. But European cars are complex, and they are unforgiving of neglect. The difference between a great used car and an expensive mistake is often hidden somewhere you can’t see on a test drive. That is exactly what a pre-purchase inspection in Perth is designed to find.
At Perth Swedish and European Auto Centre we inspect used European and Swedish cars every week. Here is what an independent inspection can reveal, and why it is worth booking before you hand over any money.
Why European cars need an expert set of eyes
A well-maintained European car can run reliably for hundreds of thousands of kilometres. A neglected one can cost its next owner thousands. We regularly see cars that look immaculate and drive nicely for ten minutes, yet have a gearbox that is starting to fail, a timing chain that is beginning to rattle or a cooling system that is about to let go. A specialist knows the weak points of each brand and model, and knows where to look.
What a pre-purchase inspection can reveal
Gaps in the service history
We check the logbook and service records against the car’s age and kilometres. Missed oil changes, an overdue timing belt or a transmission that has never been serviced are big red flags on a European car, and they directly affect what the car is worth.
Engine problems
We look for oil leaks, coolant in the oil, smoke on start-up and noises that point to wear. On many European engines, a rattle on a cold start can be the first sign of a timing chain that needs attention — a repair you want priced before you buy, not after.
Transmission faults
Dual-clutch DSG gearboxes in Audis, Volkswagens and Skodas, and the automatic transmissions in BMWs, Mercedes and Volvos, should shift smoothly. Harsh, delayed or jerky changes can indicate worn components or a gearbox that has missed its servicing.
Stored and recently cleared fault codes
Our diagnostic equipment reads the car’s computer modules for stored faults, including problems that don’t yet show a warning light. We can often tell if codes have been cleared shortly before the sale, which can be a sign that something is being hidden. Modern European cars also have plenty of electrical systems that are costly to repair if faulty.
Cooling system leaks
Many European cars use plastic water pumps, thermostat housings and radiator tanks that become brittle with age and Perth’s heat. We check for weeps and leaks before they turn into an overheating problem. Learn more about our cooling system repairs.
Brakes, tyres and suspension
Worn brakes, tired shock absorbers, worn bushes and mismatched or cheap tyres all add up quickly. On heavier SUVs and luxury models with air suspension, such as many Range Rovers and Mercedes-Benz models, the air suspension system is a key item to check.
Signs of accident damage and rust
Uneven panel gaps, paint that doesn’t match, overspray and signs of repairs underneath can indicate a previous accident. We also check for corrosion and damage underneath the car while it’s on the hoist.
Use the report to negotiate
An inspection isn’t only about deciding whether to walk away. If we find items that need attention, you will know what they are likely to cost, which gives you genuine room to negotiate on price or to ask the seller to fix them before you buy. In many cases the inspection pays for itself many times over.
Don’t forget a PPSR check
Alongside a mechanical inspection, run a check on the Australian Government’s Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR). It shows whether the car has finance owing on it, has been reported stolen or has been written off. Together, a PPSR check and an independent inspection give you the full picture.
Book a pre-purchase inspection in Perth
One of our experienced European car technicians will inspect the car you’re considering and explain exactly what we find. We know the common issues on Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Range Rover, Volvo, Volkswagen and more. Find out more about our pre-purchase inspections, book online or call us on (08) 9227 9944.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if the inspection finds problems?
We explain what we found and how serious it is. You can then walk away, ask the seller to fix the items before you buy, or use the findings to negotiate a fairer price. Considering a hidden fault on a European car can easily cost thousands to fix, it is one of the smartest checks you can make before you buy.
How long does a pre-purchase inspection take?
Most inspections take around an hour, depending on the vehicle. We will talk you through what we found and what it means for the price and future running costs.
Can you inspect a car that's for sale at a dealership or private seller?
Yes. Arrange with the seller to bring the car to our Osborne Park workshop, where we have a hoist, diagnostic equipment and the right tools to inspect it properly. Most genuine sellers are happy to agree; a seller who refuses is worth being wary of.
What's the difference between a pre-purchase inspection and a PPSR check?
A PPSR check, done online through the Australian Government's Personal Property Securities Register, tells you whether the car has money owing on it, has been reported stolen or written off. A pre-purchase inspection tells you the car's mechanical and physical condition. You should do both before buying a used car.
Do you inspect all European brands?
Yes. We inspect Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Range Rover and Land Rover, Skoda, Volvo, Volkswagen and most other makes, and we know the common weak points of each.
