Pre-purchase Inspections
IMVI can help you take the worry out of buying a used motor vehicle and allow you to make an informed buying decision with a detailed inspection report before you commit to purchasing a used motor vehicle.
Although some vehicles present in beautiful condition, there may be hidden dangers beneath the surface. The only way to be truly sure, is with a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection report.
When you’re spending tens thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of dollars on a vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection is well worth the investment. An automobile is generally the second biggest purchase of your life (after Property investment) and making an uninformed purchase can be costly and stressful.
Our reports contain detailed pictures of the exterior, interior, engine compartment, luggage compartment and underneath the vehicle.
Contact IMVI for more information, or to book your pre-purchase inspection.
Engine
Your engine must run smoothly without any excessive noise or vibration while the vehicle is static or in motion.
Engine Oil
Your engine oil should be in bright honey colour, not any darker or black. The oil should also be viscose and not too runny.
Smoke
If your tailpipe is emitting blue, black or white smoke, the vehicle may potentially have a mechanical fault.
Radiator Coolant
The colour of your coolant should be clean and brightly coloured, typically green or red.
Fluid Leaks
Any leaks under or around the vehicle should be properly inspected. Look around the engine compartment and underneath the vehicle for signs of oil, coolant or other leaks that might indicate poor maintenance and potential repairs.
Exhaust
Excessive exhaust noise, vibration, or harshness from under the vehicle may indicate an exhaust system problem.
Vehicle Identification
Check your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) matches the VIN on the registration papers. Open the bonnet, or doors and look for a small identification plate or sticker, this will contain unique specifics of your vehicle.
Lights
A quick light check could avoid a road incident or worse. Having someone check the operation of the indicators, brake lights, taillights, number plate light and headlights before a test drive is very important.
Body and Paint
Inspect the body for dents, ripples, mismatched panels, paint overspray and evidence of rust or crash repairs. Having access to a lift (or hoist) is highly recommended to inspect the underbody of the vehicle.
Interior
Inspect the seats, carpet and interior plastics for stains, damage, cracks, or wear. Use your judgement to confirm whether the condition is in line with the age and mileage of the vehicle.
Electrical
Inspect the operation of the vehicles electrical features which include the Air Conditioning and Fan speeds, Power Windows (including Sunroof) and Mirrors, Audio System, Satellite Navigation, Parking Sensors, Reversing Camera and Door Locks.
Tyres
Your tyres all must be the same size and should be of the same brand and tread pattern. Check for uneven wear, cracks, or damage to the sides. Be sure to inspect the spare wheel is secure and in good condition.
Seatbelts
Inspect the operation of all seatbelts, they must fasten smoothly into the buckles and release when pressed. Inertia type seat belts must lock up when pulled quickly.
Warning Lights
With the engine running, no illuminated warning lights should be displayed in the instrument cluster. Refer to the owner’s manual if any lights are illuminated.
Jack and Tool Kit
Make sure the vehicle is equipped with a jack and a tool kit. Some vehicles do not have a spare wheel, however, may have a puncture repair kit.
Test Drive
A Road test is very important and should not be a quick trip around the block. Test the vehicle under various conditions such as, freeway, urban streets, hills, bends and straight roads.