Used cars imported into Australia often need modifications to meet our strict safety and emissions standards. But not all compliance work is done properly. Spotting “dodgy” compliance on a second hand car can save you from registration headaches, massive repair bills or even being stuck with an unroadworthy vehicle. We at Greasemonkey Inspectors see these shortcuts far too often when checking used car for sale listings.
Shoddy Lighting and Reflector Changes
Headlights, indicators or side markers might look okay from a distance. But cheap aftermarket parts or poorly fitted conversions fail to meet ADR brightness and beam patterns. Look for mismatched colours, foggy lenses or tape covering original lights. These all are classic signs of rushed work.
Speedometer and Odometer Conversion Issues
Converting from mph to km/h is mandatory. But some importers slap on cheap overlays or faulty clusters that don’t read accurately. Check for uneven needle sweep, flickering digits or service stickers that don’t match the displayed mileage.
Incomplete or Fake Engineering Certificates
Dodgy operators forge or photocopy compliance plates and engineering sign-offs. Genuine plates should be riveted securely with crisp laser-etched details. Make sure to also beware of loose stickers, mismatched fonts or missing VIN references.
Substandard Suspension and Brake Mods
Imported vehicles sometimes get budget struts, springs or brake pads fitted to pass inspection cheaply. Listen for clunks during a test drive or spot uneven tyre wear. These point to poor-quality compliance fixes.
Buying Imported Used Cars | Why Professional Eyes Make the Difference?
Our mechanics go beyond surface checks, lifting the car to inspect weld quality, wiring integrity and component authenticity during Used Car Inspections. We flag anything that could fail rego or compromise safety.
Also Read – Dangers Of Imported Vehicles In The Used Car Market
Imported Used Cars | Final Thoughts
Buying an imported used car without verifying compliance work is a gamble you don’t need to take. A thorough Used Car Inspection from Greasemonkey Inspectors uncovers dodgy modifications before they become your problem. Book your inspection today and drive away knowing your second-hand car is truly road-ready.