The Hidden Risks of Buying Used
That shiny used car looks perfect. The seller swears it's been "well maintained." The price seems fair. But under the skin, there could be thousands of dollars in hidden problems waiting to surface.
In New Zealand, private sales are "buyer beware." Once you hand over the cash, the problems are yours. A pre-purchase inspection (PPI) is your insurance policy.
What We Check in a Pre-Purchase Inspection
Our comprehensive inspection covers over 150 points across these key areas:
1. Engine & Mechanical * Compression test (engine health) * Oil condition and leaks * Coolant condition (head gasket issues) * Belt and hose condition * Exhaust smoke analysis
2. Transmission & Drivetrain * Gearbox operation (manual and auto) * Clutch wear (manual) * CV joints and boots * Differential condition
3. Suspension & Steering * Shock absorbers * Ball joints and tie rod ends * Bushings * Wheel bearings * Power steering system
4. Brakes * Pad and rotor thickness * Brake line condition * Handbrake operation * ABS system check
5. Electrical * Battery health * Alternator output * All lights and indicators * Warning light scan (OBD2) * Air conditioning
6. Body & Structure * Rust inspection (especially sills, floors, wheel arches) * Previous accident damage * Panel alignment * Paint condition
7. Interior & Safety * Seatbelt condition * Airbag warning lights * Seat adjustments * Window and lock operation
Red Flags We Look For
- **Mismatched paint:** Sign of accident repair
- **Fresh undercoating:** Often hides rust
- **Low oil on dipstick:** Neglected maintenance or consumption issue
- **Coolant in oil (milky residue):** Head gasket failure
- **Blue/white exhaust smoke:** Engine wear or turbo issues
- **Uneven tyre wear:** Alignment or suspension problems
The Cost of Skipping a PPI
We've seen buyers purchase cars that needed: * $3,000 timing chain replacement (2 weeks after purchase) * $2,500 transmission rebuild (hidden slipping) * $4,000+ rust repair (covered by fresh underseal)
A $200-300 inspection could have saved them thousands—or helped them walk away.
How It Works
- 1.**You find a car** you're interested in
- 2.**Book us** to inspect it (we come to the seller's location)
- 3.**We inspect** and provide a detailed written report
- 4.**You decide** with full knowledge of the car's condition
- 5.**Negotiate** using our findings (or walk away)
Peace of Mind
Even if the car passes with flying colours, you get peace of mind knowing exactly what you're buying. No surprises, no regrets.
Thinking of buying? Book a pre-purchase inspection before you hand over your hard-earned money.