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[ Pre-purchase vehicle inspections ]

Know the car before you buy it

Our mechanics come to the car, put it through a detailed inspection and send you a clear, photo-rich report, so you can buy with confidence, negotiate with facts, or walk away from a costly mistake.

  • We come to the car
  • Qualified mechanics
  • Digital report with photos
  • Fast turnaround
Engine diagnosticsFault code scanTransmissionWritten-off checkFinance (PPSR) checkStolen checkOdometer checkRust & chassisAccident repairsBrakes & tyresSuspension & steeringTest driveEngine diagnosticsFault code scanTransmissionWritten-off checkFinance (PPSR) checkStolen checkOdometer checkRust & chassisAccident repairsBrakes & tyresSuspension & steeringTest drive

Why Auto Fanatic

An independent set of expert eyes

A used car can look perfect in photos and still hide expensive problems. We check it properly, tell you plainly what we found, and have no interest in whether you buy.

Independent & honest

We work for you, not the seller. You get the facts, good and bad, in plain English.

Mobile, at the seller's

Dealer yard, driveway or workplace: we inspect the car where it is, across Melbourne and surrounding suburbs.

A report you can use

Colour-coded results, scores, measurements and photos, ready to share or use to negotiate the price.

Inspection packages

Choose your level of certainty

Clear, fixed prices with GST included. We come to the car.

Essential

Mechanical peace of mind

$249incl. GST

Book Essential
  • Mobile inspection at the seller's location
  • Mechanical and safety inspection
  • Test drive (where permitted)
  • Phone debrief with your inspector
  • Summary checklist report

Best for: Checking a car is mechanically sound before you go further.

Premium Priority

Full inspection + history

$429incl. GST

Book Premium
  • Everything in Standard
  • Written-off, stolen and finance (PPSR) checks
  • Odometer rollback check
  • Accident and previous repair assessment
  • Roadworthy-items check
  • Section scores and overall rating
  • Up to 100 photos + video walkaround
  • Priority booking within 24 hours

Best for: Higher-value cars, or when you need the answer fast.

How it works

Three simple steps

  1. 01

    Book online

    Pick a package and send us the car's details and location. We confirm a time with you and the seller.

  2. 02

    We inspect on site

    Our mechanic inspects, scans and (where allowed) test drives the car, photographing everything that matters.

  3. 03

    Get your report

    Your digital report lands in your inbox, and we're a phone call away to talk you through it.

What we check

Bumper to bumper, in detail

Exterior & body

Panels, paint, signs of previous repairs, rust, glass, lights and seals.

Interior & electrics

Seats and belts, warning lights, air conditioning, windows, infotainment and controls.

Engine & drivetrain

Leaks, belts and hoses, cooling, mounts, transmission, CV joints and differentials.

Tyres, brakes & suspension

Measured tread depth and pad thickness, discs, park brake, steering and suspension.

Road test & diagnostics

Computer fault-code scan, then idle, gear changes, braking, noises and handling on the road.

History & documents

Written-off, stolen and finance checks, odometer consistency, service books and keys.

Your report

Clear answers, not mechanic-speak

Every inspection ends with a professional report you can read in minutes: an overall score, a score for each area, colour-coded results for every item, measurements and photos of anything that needs attention, plus a prioritised list of what to fix.

  • Overall rating and section scores out of 5
  • History check results at a glance
  • Photos beside every finding
  • Priority repairs to use in negotiation
Book your inspection

A few hundred dollars now can save thousands later

Hidden finance, a written-off past, a wound-back odometer or a tired gearbox are expensive surprises. Find out before you pay, not after.

Book an inspection

FAQs

Good questions to ask

Do I need to be there for the inspection?

No. Most customers aren't. We arrange access with the seller, carry out the inspection and send you the report. You're welcome to attend if you'd like to.

Can you inspect at a dealership or a private home?

Yes. We inspect at dealer yards, private driveways, workplaces and car auctions, as long as the seller agrees and there's safe space to work.

How long does an inspection take?

Usually 60–90 minutes on site, depending on the package and the vehicle.

When will I get the report?

Your digital report is emailed as soon as the inspection is completed and checked.

Do you check if the car is written off, stolen or has finance owing?

Yes. The Premium Priority package includes written-off, stolen and finance (PPSR) checks and an odometer consistency check.

Is the inspection a roadworthy certificate?

No. It's an independent condition report. It does flag roadworthy-related items, but a roadworthy certificate must be issued separately by a licensed tester.

What if it rains, or the seller cancels?

We can usually inspect in light rain or under cover. If the seller cancels or the car isn't available, we'll work with you to rebook.

Book an inspection

Tell us about the car

Send your details and we'll contact you to confirm the time and details. No payment is taken now.

  • Servicing Melbourne and surrounding suburbs
  • We coordinate access with the seller
  • Report emailed straight to you

By booking you agree to be contacted about this inspection. We never share your details.

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