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Sasanka WidisingheVehicle Inspection

Factors To Consider When Buying A Used Car

When buying a used car, you want to make sure you get the right vehicle for the right price. Used cars have a history that shapes what they are now. Let’s explore the key factors to consider when buying a used car in Melbourne or anywhere in Australia.

The Car’s Age

Consider the car’s age first. Used cars can range from six months to sixty years old or more. Decide how old is too old for you. Older cars might lack modern luxuries or safety features. Can you live without them?

Lifestyle

Choose a car that suits your current and future lifestyle. For instance, a minivan might be better for a growing family than a compact sedan. Similarly, a commuter driving over 100 kilometers per day might prefer a small SUV over a full-size one. Finding the best choice for your lifestyle is crucial in your used car search.

Value and Cost of Ownership

Select a vehicle that retains its value well over time. The saying, “A car loses value the second it is driven off the lot,” is becoming less true. Trusted sources like Kelley Blue Book (KBB.com) research how vehicles hold their value and rate them based on their 5-year cost of ownership. This data helps drivers save more money on their used car purchases.

Test Driving the Car

Spend time test driving the car to see how comfortable it is and if everything works smoothly. Ask to drive on different road surfaces like flat roads, uphill, highways, and areas with sharp corners.

The Previous Owners

Consider the number of previous owners. Fewer owners usually mean better maintenance. Some owners treat their cars well, while others do not. A car with fewer owners is more likely to have been well cared for.

Warranty

A solid warranty on a used car can save you money on future repairs. Whether it’s a factory warranty or an extended warranty from the dealership, this protection can be valuable for your wallet.

Pre-purchase Car Inspection

Although some of us think we’re capable mechanics, getting a used car checked by a professional is essential. A professional pre-purchase car inspection ensures the car is mechanically sound. There’s nothing worse than discovering costly issues after buying your car.

For a thorough pre-purchase car inspection in Melbourne, contact Greasemonkey Inspectors. Our experts ensure your dream car is in excellent condition and not a scam.

Taking your time when buying a used car is important to avoid any surprises later. If you need a professional pre-purchase car inspection in Melbourne, reach out to Greasemonkey Inspectors today!

Explore our Inspection Packages to find the best option for your needs.

Book Now

Greasemonkey Inspectors | Melbourne Car Inspection

📞 0481 608 866
📧 support@greasemonkeyinspectors.com
📍 13/324 Settlement Road Thomastown VIC 3074

Sasanka WidisingheVehicle Inspection

Does Your Used Car Have a Warranty?

If you’re considering buying a used car, you might have several questions. One key consideration is whether to buy from a licensed dealer or a private seller. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks. The most important question to ask is, does the used car come with a warranty?

Statutory Warranty

In some cases, a statutory warranty is provided at no additional cost when purchasing a used car from a licensed:

  • Motor dealer
  • Chattel auctioneer

Buying from these sources can offer a statutory warranty, protecting you from financial loss if the vehicle has faults.

Requirements for a Statutory Warranty

Licensed motor car traders must provide a statutory warranty if the car meets these criteria:

  • Less than 10 years old
  • Has traveled less than 160,000 kilometers

The car’s age is determined by the build plate date, usually found on the firewall between the engine and passenger compartments.

Coverage of a Statutory Warranty

A statutory warranty covers most defects in parts that stop working correctly. However, it does not cover defects related to:

  • Items listed on a defect notice with repair cost estimates
  • Accidental damage after vehicle delivery
  • Damage due to misuse or negligence after delivery

Other exclusions include defects in:

  • Tyres
  • Batteries
  • Radios and audio systems
  • DVD and video display panels
  • GPS and navigation systems
  • Power outlets and cigarette lighters
  • Non-standard alarms and body hardware
  • Tools (except jacks and wheel braces)
  • Light globes and non-standard fog lights
  • Non-standard keyless entry systems and remote keypads

Duration of a Statutory Warranty

A statutory warranty lasts for three months or 5,000 kilometers after purchase, whichever comes first. During this period, the trader must repair any covered faults to ensure the car is in reasonable condition for its age.

Even after the statutory warranty expires, your rights under Australian Consumer Law may still offer protection, depending on factors like the car’s age and condition.

Transfer of Statutory Warranty

A statutory warranty is part of the contract with a licensed motor car trader. If you sell the car privately before the warranty period ends, it does not transfer to the new owner.

Making Claims and Repairs

To claim a repair or replacement for a part not listed above, notify the warrantor with a written notice. They have 5 days to respond and confirm coverage. If they don’t respond, they must accept responsibility for repairs.

For repairs, take the car to the warrantor or an authorized repair shop within 20km of their business. They have 14 days to complete the repairs. Each day your car is in the shop adds an extra day to your warranty term.

If your vehicle is over 200km from the warrantor’s business, they may choose a closer qualified repairer or pay for delivery to another repairer.

Hire the Best Pre-Purchase Car Inspector in Melbourne

To ensure your dream car is in good condition and not a scam, hire a professional inspector like Greasemonkey Inspectors for a thorough pre-purchase car inspection in Melbourne.

If you’re looking for a reliable pre-purchase car inspection in Melbourne, contact Greasemonkey Inspectors today!

Explore our Inspection Packages for more information.

Book Now

Greasemonkey Inspectors | Melbourne Car Inspection

📞 0481 608 866
📧 support@greasemonkeyinspectors.com
📍 13/324 Settlement Road Thomastown VIC 3074

Sasanka WidisingheVehicle Inspection

Car Tyres: When Should I Replace My Tyres?

Few things are as critical to the safety and performance of a car as its tyres. Simply put, a car cannot be safe if its tyres are in poor condition. Unfortunately, like everything else, tyres suffer from wear. The amount of wear directly affects how a car behaves on the road. So when should you replace your car tyres?

As the only components in constant touch with the road surface, the tyres contribute not only to safe handling and braking but also to the comfort and overall running costs of a car. Hopefully, all car owners and operators know the best time to replace a worn or ageing tyre. The indicators are generally simple and involve little more than a visual check.

How Long Do Car Tyres Last?

First, let’s discuss how long car tyres typically last. Here are a few milestones and tips:

  1. Keep Five Years in Mind After five years or more in use, your tyres should be thoroughly inspected at least once per year by a professional.
  2. Ten Years is a Maximum If the tyres haven’t been replaced 10 years after their date of manufacture, Michelin recommends replacing them with new tyres. Even if they appear to be in usable condition and have not worn down to the tread wear indicator. This applies to spare tyres as well.
  3. Proper Care Extends a Tyre’s Lifespan Taking good care of your tyres’ air pressure, tread wear, alignment, and other factors can increase their longevity.

Don’t forget to check your owner’s manual to find out what your car maker recommends.

How Do You Know When to Replace Old Tyres?

Check The Tread Depth

Tyre treads are there for one reason: to assist grip on wet surfaces by clearing the water under the tyre and allowing contact with the road. The less tread, the more compromised the wet-surface grip.

All tyres have tread wear indicators (TWIs) comprising small blocks of rubber within the tread at certain points around the tyre. As the tyre wears, these blocks get closer and eventually become flush with the surface of the tyre.

Once that happens, the tyre is officially unroadworthy because by this time only 1.6mm of tread is left. The recommendation is that the tyre should be replaced once the tread depth is down to around 2mm.

The easiest way of determining how much life is left in the tyre is by using a tread depth indicator. Often tyre retailers offer these for free; otherwise, they’re a small-cost item from a car part retailer.

Check Your Tyres’ Age

If your tyres are older than 5 years, it is suggested to replace them even if they appear to be in great condition and haven’t been worn down to the tread wear indicator. This is because rubber deteriorates over time. This also applies to your spare tyre. Just because it hasn’t been used regularly or even at all, does not mean it is in great condition. Spare tyres need to be replaced every 6 to 8 years due to the degrading of the rubber.

Are Your Tyres Damaged?

Take a quick look at your tyres. This can be an obvious reason to replace your tyres. Can you detect any damage such as a cut, nails, or chunks missing? If so, then it’s time to get the tyre replaced as these damages can make your tyres unsafe. Keep an eye out for cracks on the tyres too. These cracks are caused by too much exposure to sunlight.

Now you know when to change your tyres, but how about maintaining them? Here are some handy hints on how you can extend the life of your tyres by keeping them in good condition to get the most possible use out of them.

Have Your Tyres Inflated Correctly

Maintaining the correct inflation pressure is one of the most important things you can do to look after your tyres. There are two reasons why your tyre pressure is so critical:

Underinflation

If your tyres are under-inflated, they will wear out on the outer edges quicker than normal. The wearing of the edges can increase braking distance and increase fuel use.

Overinflation

Overinflation will result in wear on the middle of the tread instead of the outer edges. This can cause issues with cornering ability, steering, and braking.

The correct pressure for your vehicle can be found on the card attached to the car body, which is generally on the driver’s door pillar. Your tyre pressure should be checked every month, before a long journey, and before you plan on towing as it will need to sit higher. The recommended inflation pressure is shown on a placard attached to the body—usually on the driver’s door pillar—and also in the owner’s manual.

Rotate Your Tyres

Tyres wear at different rates depending on their position on the car. On a rear-wheel-drive car, the rear tyres wear faster than the front tyres. On a front-drive car, it’s the front tyres that wear the fastest.

Rotating the tyres around the car can even out the wear on all tyres. That way they should all need replacement at the same time.

If you do rotate your tyres, do it regularly at 5000km intervals. That way, the disparity between those that are wearing the fastest and those wearing the slowest is minimised.

When rotating your tyres you can also include the spare.

Should I Replace The Spare Tyre?

The spare is almost always forgotten, left to sit in the dark in the boot of our car until needed in an emergency.

Hire The Best Pre-Purchase Car Inspector in Melbourne

For professional pre-purchase car inspections in Melbourne, trust Greasemonkey Inspectors. We provide thorough onsite inspections to ensure that your dream car is operating properly and not a scam.

If you need a reliable pre-purchase car inspector in Melbourne, contact Greasemonkey Inspectors today!

Explore our Inspections Packages to ensure your next car purchase is safe and sound.

Book Now

Greasemonkey Inspectors | Melbourne Car Inspection

📞 0481 608 866
📧 support@greasemonkeyinspectors.com
📍 13/324 Settlement Road Thomastown VIC 3074

Sasanka WidisingheVehicle Inspection

Road Worthy Certificate and Pre-Purchase Inspection

When buying a used car, two important steps to ensure your investment is sound are obtaining a Road Worthy Certificate and conducting a Pre Purchase Inspection. At Greasemonkey Inspectors, we specialize in thorough pre purchase inspections to give you peace of mind.

What is a Road Worthy Certificate?

A Road Worthy Certificate (RWC) is a document that confirms a vehicle is safe to drive on public roads. In Australia, this certificate is necessary when selling a car, transferring ownership, or re-registering a vehicle. The RWC checks key safety features like brakes, tires, steering, and lights. It does not, however, cover the overall condition of the vehicle, which is where a pre purchase inspection becomes essential.

Importance of a Pre Purchase Inspection

A Pre Purchase Inspection goes beyond the basic safety check of an RWC. It involves a comprehensive examination of the car’s mechanical and structural condition. Our team at Greasemonkey Inspectors provides a detailed report on the vehicle’s current state, including potential future issues. This helps buyers make informed decisions and avoid unexpected repair costs.

Benefits of a Pre Purchase Inspection in Australia

In Australia, a pre purchase inspection is highly recommended due to the diverse climate and road conditions. Vehicles here can experience significant wear and tear, making it crucial to have them thoroughly inspected before purchase. Greasemonkey Inspectors offers specialized pre purchase inspection services in Melbourne and other parts of Australia, ensuring you get the best value for your money.

Why Choose Greasemonkey Inspectors?

At Greasemonkey Inspectors, we pride ourselves on providing top-notch pre purchase inspection services. Our experienced inspectors meticulously check every aspect of the vehicle, from the engine and transmission to the electrical systems and bodywork. We use state-of-the-art tools and techniques to ensure no detail is overlooked.

Our inspection reports are easy to understand and provide actionable insights. Whether you’re buying from a dealer or a private seller, our pre purchase inspections in Melbourne and throughout Australia help you make a confident purchase decision.

How to Schedule a Pre Purchase Inspection

Scheduling a pre purchase inspection with Greasemonkey Inspectors is simple. We offer on-site services to make the process as convenient as possible. Contact us through our website to book an appointment, and we will come to you. We offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate your needs.

Conclusion

Investing in a pre purchase inspection is a smart move for anyone considering buying a used car. It provides a clear picture of the vehicle’s condition and helps you avoid costly surprises down the road. At Greasemonkey Inspectors, we are committed to delivering thorough and reliable inspections to our clients. Check out our Inspection Packages and ensure your next car purchase is a wise one.

Book Now

Greasemonkey Inspectors | Melbourne Car Inspection

📞 0481 608 866
📧 support@greasemonkeyinspectors.com
📍 13/324 Settlement Road Thomastown VIC 3074

Sasanka WidisingheVehicle Inspection

Avoid These 4 Things When Buying a Used Car!

Buying a used car can be a cost-effective alternative to owning a new vehicle, as long as you purchase one in good condition. A used car is more affordable and enables you to own a car for personal or business use in the shortest time possible. However, a preloved car may come with several issues that could affect your driving experience. It’s essential to know what to avoid when buying a used car.

If you’re in the market for your first used car, beware of these four things.

Not Knowing What You Can Afford

Determine your budget before you start looking for a car. Never skip your homework—don’t visit the dealership empty-handed or you might end up paying more than necessary. If you jump straight into the car search, you could make unnecessary sacrifices or waste time looking at cars that don’t fit your budget.

The internet is a great place to begin your car buying process. Once you’ve worked out your budget and needs, start comparing models and understanding what the various car features mean. Different manufacturers sometimes use slightly different terms to refer to the same thing. Note any advertised prices, especially on runout deals.

Relying on Monthly Payments

If you plan to buy a used car through a car loan, using your monthly payments as the sole basis for calculating prices is not smart. A low monthly payment may seem affordable, but it would require a long time to complete. This means you would end up paying back more money. Remember, the interest of your loan is calculated in your monthly repayments—the longer your car loan runs, the more interest you would pay.

Also, a car’s value depreciates over time. Although a used car doesn’t depreciate as quickly as a new one, it still loses 15 to 20 percent of its value each year. Reselling your already second-hand car to a new buyer would be very difficult.

Only Visiting One Dealer

Many buyers only shop at a single dealership. Even if you know the salesperson or have bought all your cars from them before, it doesn’t mean they are offering the best price.

These days, many dealerships put their best deals online, making it easier to shop around. Pick a couple of dealerships to visit and negotiate. Make sure you go to an honest used car dealership. They will genuinely help you, and that’s what you want when visiting your local dealership.

Not Asking Enough Questions

“We’ll even throw in…” is always an appealing phrase when you’re trying to make a deal. But did you know dealers make more money on extras and servicing than on the actual margin of the car? While accessories can sweeten a deal, they’re also likely to be used to increase the final price you’re paying.

Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. Watch for these red flags to avoid problems when buying a used car!

BONUS: Not Hiring the Best Pre-purchase Car Inspector in Melbourne

Hire a professional inspector like Greasemonkey Inspectors to perform a thorough pre-purchase car inspection in Melbourne. This ensures that your dream car is in good condition and not a scam. If you’re looking for a professional pre-purchase car inspector in Melbourne, contact Greasemonkey Inspectors.

For more information on our inspection packages, visit our Inspections Packages page.

Book Now

Greasemonkey Inspectors | Melbourne Car Inspection

📞 0481 608 866
📧 support@greasemonkeyinspectors.com
📍 13/324 Settlement Road Thomastown VIC 3074

Sasanka WidisingheVehicle Inspection

Buying a Used Car: Dealers, Private Sellers, or Auctions

Buying a car can be a stressful experience. For many of us, it is one of the largest financial transactions we will make. There are many pitfalls for the unwary or inexperienced. When it comes to buying a car, many of us can be both.

Buying a Used Car Through a Dealership

Purchasing a used car through a dealership in Melbourne or anywhere in Australia is often more expensive upfront than buying from a private seller. Dealerships have cost margins to cover, such as rent and wages, which can lead to slightly higher prices. However, the professionalism and quality of customer service at a dealership can make this cost worthwhile.

Buying a Used Car Privately

Buying a used car privately allows for more flexibility in negotiation. Private sellers often have an inflated opinion of their car’s value, based on the asking prices of similar cars rather than the final selling prices. This gives buyers plenty of room to negotiate and the option to walk away. If the seller is in a hurry to sell, your bargaining position becomes even stronger.

It is crucial to ensure the car is free of any encumbrances, meaning there is no debt attached to it. If you buy a car with an encumbrance and the borrower defaults on the debt, the lender could repossess the car, even though the debt is not yours.

Buying a Used Car at an Auction

Buying a used car at an auction can save you money, but it requires thorough research. Set a price limit and stick to it. Ex-government and fleet cars can offer good value and are usually well-maintained, but they might not have been driven as carefully as privately owned cars.

Pre-Purchase Car Inspections in Melbourne

Before purchasing any used car, it is essential to have it thoroughly inspected by a professional. Greasemonkey Inspectors provide comprehensive pre-purchase vehicle inspections onsite to ensure that your potential car is in good condition and not a scam. Our services are available across Melbourne and Australia.

If you need a professional pre-purchase car inspection in Melbourne, contact Greasemonkey Inspectors today.

Inspection Packages

To learn more about our inspection packages, visit our Inspection Packages page and choose the right option for you.

Book Now

Greasemonkey Inspectors | Melbourne Car Inspection

📞 0481 608 866
📧 support@greasemonkeyinspectors.com
📍 13/324 Settlement Road Thomastown VIC 3074

Sasanka WidisingheVehicle Inspection

5 Must-Have Features For Your Used Car

In today’s world, where everything is becoming increasingly expensive and economic conditions are unpredictable, many people prefer not to spend a fortune on a brand-new car. Ten years ago, we focused more on basic safety features and aerodynamic design. Nowadays, advanced technology is the name of the game.

However, personal cars have become an essential part of modern life, offering convenience and time-saving benefits. You can still enjoy all the perks of a new car at a much lower cost by choosing a high-quality pre-owned vehicle, such as a used BMW.

The used car market is vast and actually larger than the new car market. It continues to grow as many first-time buyers opt for pre-owned cars over brand-new ones. While there are many reliable sources to buy good quality used cars, it’s important to know which dealers are trustworthy. Additionally, the car must meet your requirements and provide a pleasant ownership experience.

Comfortable Seats

Comfortable seats are a crucial feature to look for when buying a pre-owned car. Enjoying a drive is impossible without comfortable seats for both the driver and passengers. A driver cannot drive in peace if the seats are uncomfortable, and passengers will feel discomfort, especially during long journeys. Spend around 15 minutes on both the driver’s and passengers’ seats to check their comfort and support level.

Air Conditioning System

A quality air conditioning system is essential for maintaining comfort through changing climate conditions. Auto Air Conditioning, which offers fine-tuned temperature settings, enhances this comfort. Simply set it in auto mode and forget about it. The system will automatically adjust to keep the car interior comfortable.

Airbags

Airbags are one of the most crucial safety features in any car. High-end variants offer a complete package of airbags for all occupants, but even the base models of many used cars include front dual airbags. This feature is vital for your safety in the event of a collision.

Fuel Efficiency

Every driver values fuel efficiency. With today’s automotive advancements, even larger trucks and SUVs can offer impressive fuel efficiency. If fuel efficiency is your priority, consider hybrid vehicles. Hybrid used cars can achieve fuel efficiencies in the 40+ MPG range.

Cargo Space

Cargo space is important whether you’re looking for a sedan, truck, or SUV. It allows you and your passengers to transport belongings with ease. When browsing used cars, compare the available cargo space. For SUVs, check the cargo space with and without the seats folded down to ensure ample room even when carrying passengers.

Advanced Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for most drivers, and automotive brands take it very seriously. New safety technologies continually emerge to keep drivers and passengers safe on the roads. Some advanced safety features to look for in a used car include:

  • Backup camera
  • Electronic stability control
  • LED headlights
  • Fog lamps
  • Brake assist
  • Child LATCH system
  • Cruise control
  • Lane keep assist with lane departure warning
  • Blind-spot detection

Pre-purchase Car Inspections in Melbourne, VIC

Ensure your dream car is operating properly and not a scam by having a professional inspector like Greasemonkey Inspectors conduct a thorough pre-purchase car inspection in Melbourne. If you’re seeking a professional pre-purchase car inspector in Melbourne, contact Greasemonkey Inspectors today.

For more information on our inspection packages, visit our Inspections Packages page.

Book Now

Greasemonkey Inspectors | Melbourne Car Inspection

📞 0481 608 866
📧 support@greasemonkeyinspectors.com
📍 13/324 Settlement Road Thomastown VIC 3074

Sasanka WidisingheVehicle Inspection

Signs of an Honest Used Car Dealership You Should Know

Buying a car is a significant investment that requires trust and careful consideration. Finding the right car might seem daunting, but knowing what to look for in a dealership can make the process much smoother. At Greasemonkey Inspectors, we believe in helping you navigate the journey of buying a used car with confidence.

Look for Honest Salespeople Who Listen

In commission-based businesses, salespeople may prioritize their earnings over your needs. If a salesperson ignores your requests, shows you cars out of your budget, or talks at you instead of with you, it’s time to look elsewhere. Seek out sales staff who respect your opinions, show you cars that match your criteria, and treat you with dignity.

Beware of Red Flags When Buying a Used Car

Trusting your instincts is crucial when buying a used car. Watch out for warning signs or red flags. A good dealership should make you feel comfortable and valued. If a salesperson is willing to negotiate over the phone, it’s a sign they genuinely want to help. However, if they pressure you to visit the dealership without a valid reason, it might indicate high-pressure sales tactics. Pay attention to their tone and demeanor during phone calls and in-person interactions. If they seem pushy or frustrated, it’s best to walk away.

Consider How Long They’ve Been in Business

The longevity of a dealership can be a good indicator of its reliability. While a new dealership isn’t necessarily untrustworthy, a long-established one likely has a proven track record. Check how long the dealership has been in business to gauge their experience and trustworthiness.

Look for Reliable Information

Untrustworthy dealers may lie about car features, pricing, or availability to make a sale. A reputable used car dealership in Melbourne will provide honest information, even if it means telling you that a sale isn’t possible. Reliable dealerships prioritize transparency and customer satisfaction.

Check for Positive Reviews

The internet is a valuable resource for researching local businesses. Before visiting a dealership, read reviews on sites like DealerRater and Google Reviews. Look for feedback on reliability, helpfulness, pricing, and overall customer experiences. A dealership with many positive reviews is more likely to be trustworthy and worth your time.

Pre-purchase Car Inspections in Melbourne, VIC

To ensure your dream car is in excellent condition, have a professional inspector from Greasemonkey Inspectors conduct a thorough pre-purchase car inspection. Our pre-purchase vehicle inspection service in Melbourne helps you make informed decisions and avoid scams.

If you’re looking for a professional pre-purchase car inspector in Melbourne, Greasemonkey Inspectors is here to help. Explore our Inspection Packages to find the right option for you.

Book Now

Greasemonkey Inspectors | Melbourne Car Inspection

📞 0481 608 866
📧 support@greasemonkeyinspectors.com
📍 13/324 Settlement Road Thomastown VIC 3074

Sasanka WidisingheVehicle Inspection

Common Mistakes People Make at a Used Car Dealership

If you plan to buy a used car, walking into a used car dealership with salespeople trying to sway you into a sale can feel overwhelming. Many buyers make common mistakes, such as not requesting a test drive or setting unrealistic expectations, leading to missed opportunities. However, buying a car doesn’t have to be as intimidating as it may seem. In this article, we will explore common mistakes people make at a used car dealership and provide tips to avoid them. By following these tips, you can find the best car for your needs and budget without too much stress.

Know What Car You Need

Buying a car is not like buying a new pair of shoes. You need to ask yourself several questions: how much you can afford, the reliability of the brand, known issues with that particular model, the car’s size, and functional requirements.

Before visiting the showroom, conduct online research and compare costs, specs, and offers. This will help you make an informed choice about the make and model that suits your needs. Review sites and car shopping portals provide valuable information about the used car you may be considering.

Set Realistic Expectations

Setting high expectations can prevent you from achieving your goal of buying a used car. Understand the market value of the cars you have in mind to facilitate negotiations at the dealership. A smart dealer will sell their stock at a competitive price but will not give the car away. Simple give and take will save you time in negotiation.

Do your research, set boundaries, and be aware of the car’s actual cost. You can also hire a professional pre-purchase car inspector in Melbourne, like Greasemonkey Inspectors, to help you.

Take a Test Drive

When deciding to buy a car, do not rely solely on the salesperson’s words. They are professionals interested in making a commission. If they do not offer you a chance to take the car for a spin, walk away. Returning a car should be straightforward, but it often isn’t. Paying for a car that feels right to drive is crucial. Gather as much information as possible and test drive several cars until you find the perfect one. Ensure that the test drive is thorough enough to identify any potential problems.

Avoid Buying Unnecessary Extras

Many people make the mistake of buying things they don’t need at the dealership. When closing the deal and signing the papers, be prepared to say “No” frequently. Dealers may try to sell accessories or extended warranties that are unnecessary or more expensive than expected. Ensure you are not charged extra for things you have already negotiated with your salesperson.

Discuss Your Trade-In at the Right Time

Trading in your used car when buying a new one can be convenient. However, you should research the value of your used car first to avoid potential losses. You might also consider selling your car separately to make a higher profit.

Pre-Purchase Car Inspections in Melbourne, VIC

Have a professional inspector like Greasemonkey Inspectors perform a thorough pre-purchase car inspection in Melbourne to ensure that your dream car is in good condition and not a scam. If you are looking for a professional pre-purchase car inspector in Melbourne, contact Greasemonkey Inspectors today!

Inspections Packages

Book Now

Greasemonkey Inspectors | Melbourne Car Inspection

📞 0481 608 866
📧 support@greasemonkeyinspectors.com
📍 13/324 Settlement Road Thomastown VIC 3074

Sasanka WidisingheVehicle Inspection

Buying a Used Car? Look for These Red Flags!

Buying a used car offers a great way to save money and take advantage of depreciation, but it comes with certain risks, especially when the car has had multiple owners. At Greasemonkey Inspectors, we provide comprehensive pre-purchase vehicle inspection services to help you make an informed decision. Here are some key factors to consider:

Ensure Complete Paperwork

It’s crucial to have all the necessary paperwork to make your vehicle transaction legal and binding. This paperwork serves as an agreement between the buyer and seller and ensures the vehicle is legally registered and in good condition. A comprehensive service and repair history report is essential.

When buying from a dealer or a private seller, always inspect the service books and history of the car. A logbook with a full-service history and recent service records is invaluable when purchasing a used car. Make sure to check vehicle registration papers to identify the current or previous registered owner. A PPSR Report will also reveal if the car has been stolen, written off, or still has finance owing. Incomplete paperwork may indicate potential issues with the vehicle’s history, so reconsider the deal if all documents are not in order.

Watch for Excessive Rust

While most parts of a car can be fixed or replaced, excessive rust is often a deal-breaker. Rust on body panels can be costly to repair, and rust on the frame is a major concern. The frame is the car’s backbone, and repairing it can weaken the vehicle overall. Some rust is normal in a used car, but excessive rust with metal flaking off should be avoided. Be especially wary of rust in critical areas like the floor pan.

Pay Attention to Warning Lights

If the dashboard is lit up with warning lights, it’s a red flag. While some lights may indicate minor issues like a loose gas cap, others could signal significant problems. If you’re interested in the car, have a professional inspection done by Greasemonkey Inspectors to determine the severity of the issue.

Check for New or Mismatched Paint

Fresh paint on a used car isn’t always a good sign. It could indicate that the car has been in an accident and repaired. While some repairs are fine, others can lead to ongoing issues. Inspect the car closely for paint inconsistencies across body panels.

Verify Dealer Licensing

If buying from a dealer, ensure they are licensed. This protects you from unscrupulous sellers and guarantees that the dealer is legally authorized to sell vehicles. If the dealer cannot provide proof of their license, do not proceed with the purchase.

Avoid Anti-Inspection Sellers

Having a car inspected by an independent mechanic is a smart move. Sellers who refuse to allow an independent inspection or insist on using their mechanic might be hiding something. Walk away from sellers who discourage or refuse an inspection.

Be Wary of Smelly Interiors

An overly perfumed interior may be masking mold or mildew smells, indicating water leaks. Common areas for mildew are the dashboard, weatherstrips around doors and windows, and drainage systems like the A/C and sunroofs. Previous smoking can also cause odors that are hard to eliminate. These issues can be costly to fix, so be cautious.

Pre-Purchase Car Inspections in Melbourne, VIC

For peace of mind, have Greasemonkey Inspectors conduct a thorough pre-purchase car inspection. This ensures that your prospective car is in good condition and free from hidden issues. If you’re looking for a reliable pre-purchase car inspection in Melbourne, contact Greasemonkey Inspectors today!

Explore our Inspection Packages for more details.

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Greasemonkey Inspectors | Melbourne Car Inspection

📞 0481 608 866
📧 support@greasemonkeyinspectors.com
📍 13/324 Settlement Road Thomastown VIC 3074

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