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Liam AllenTips

Buying A Family Car? Read These Tips First!

Starting a family brings an abundance of important decisions and lifestyle changes. One of these decisions is choosing the right vehicle to carry the most precious cargo you’ll ever be responsible for. With so many options on the market, buying a family car doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some tips to guide you through the process.

How Much Can You Afford?

First, determine how much you can spend on a new family car, whether it’s new or used. Avoid buying something too expensive that will stress your family budget for years. Plan carefully, considering not only the initial cost but also ongoing expenses like insurance, fuel efficiency, warranty, service, and registration. Spend within your means to ensure financial stability.

What Will You Use the Car For?

Consider how you’ll use the car. If your routes are mainly suburban, between school, work, and the supermarket, you might not need a large off-roader SUV that consumes a lot of petrol. Even if you imagine going camping or off-roading, if you haven’t done these activities before children, it’s unlikely you’ll start now.

However, if you live in the country and frequently travel across rough terrain, an SUV might be necessary. In Australia, many families prefer SUVs for their higher driving position, safety, and ample boot space. Choose your car based on your actual needs.

Consider an SUV or a People Mover

SUVs are popular at school drop-offs for a reason. Their upright driving position offers better visibility, and their height makes it easier to load kids and groceries. SUVs generally hold more stuff. People movers, while not as trendy, are extremely practical. Their sliding doors make it easy to get kids in and out and prevent door dings in parking lots.

Remember, you won’t just be driving your own kids but also their friends and teammates. Consider whether you need a 5, 7, or 8-seater model.

Ensure Comfort During Long Trips

Your family car will also be your vehicle for holidays and road trips. Make sure everyone will be comfortable during long journeys. Check for ample legroom and adjustable seating options.

Check the Safety Features

A family car should have comprehensive airbags covering all rows. Ensure it has child seat fixtures like tether points or ISOFIX points. Look for modern safety features like auto emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, reverse parking cameras, 360-degree cameras, and adaptive cruise control. These features enhance safety, especially on long drives and in traffic.

Know the Fuel Type and Efficiency

Choose the fuel type that best suits your needs—petrol, hybrid, or electric. Manufacturers provide official fuel consumption figures, but real-world usage can vary. Consider your driving habits, such as frequent school runs or city driving, which may increase fuel consumption.

Check the Boot Space

When test-driving a car, bring your pram or stroller to see if it fits in the boot with room to spare. For compact cars, check how easy it is to fold the rear seats to increase capacity if needed.

Take Advantage of the Test Drive

Don’t hesitate to take the car for a longer test drive, especially if it’s a used family car. You can ask to test it with your daily needs, such as fitting it in your garage. Dealerships are usually accommodating as they want to sell you a car.

Also Read – Buying a Used Car: Dealers, Private Sellers, or Auctions

Consult a Professional Car Technician in Melbourne

Never buy a car without proper research. Consult a professional like Greasemonkey Inspectors for independent, personal car purchase advice. We are not car brokers but can assist in choosing the best make, model, year, and version of the vehicle suited to your needs. As backyard mechanics, we might miss details a professional inspector would catch.

For those looking to buy a secondhand car, having a professional inspector like Greasemonkey Inspectors perform a thorough pre-purchase car inspection in Melbourne ensures the car is in good condition and not a scam. Contact Greasemonkey Inspectors for the best pre-purchase car inspection service in Melbourne.

Explore our Inspection Packages to find the right fit for your needs.

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Liam AllenTips

A New Explanation Behind Car Delays and Price Increases In Australia

A series of unexpected setbacks have caused significant car delays for deliveries across Australia, increasing the risk of price hikes. While the semiconductor shortage is often blamed, there are two other key factors contributing to the difficulty of finding a good deal on a new car in the near future.

Supply Chain Challenges Unique to Australia

Due to two new supply chain vulnerabilities unique to Australia, automotive industry experts warn that waiting times for new cars won’t improve until at least the second half of 2022. Shipping is the next major challenge in getting new cars to local dealerships and consumers.

Shipping Complications

According to automotive logistics experts, the number of car-carrying freighters arriving in Australia has halved since the global pandemic began. Many shipping companies are avoiding long quarantine waits due to COVID-19 outbreaks or agricultural breaches such as stink bugs. Additionally, ships are being reconfigured to meet the changing demand for vehicles.

The cost of available space on car-carrying ships destined for Australia has increased due to a shortage of frequency and the types of vehicles being purchased. The shift towards larger vehicles, such as utes, four-wheel-drives, and especially vans, has put unprecedented strain on ships delivering cars to Australia.

Demand for high-roof vans in Australia has more than doubled due to the surge in online sales and parcel deliveries during the pandemic. However, these large vehicles take up more space on ships, making transportation less efficient and more costly.

“High-roof vans are long and tall and take up the equivalent space of two or three passenger cars,” said an industry insider. This has driven vehicle shipping costs from $1200 to $1600 for a ute or SUV, and from $2100 to $3900 for a long-wheelbase high-roof van.

Adding to the complexity, foreign transportation is usually paid for in US dollars, requiring Australian vehicle importers to consider currency exchange rates when determining drive-away charges. Finding space on a ship is becoming increasingly challenging.

Most car-carrying shipping decks are divided into three height categories: below 2 meters, below 2.5 meters, and over 2.5 meters. High-roof vans and other large vehicles fall into the latter category. Car companies prioritize passenger cars, SUVs, and utes under the 2-meter limit because these are in highest demand and deliver the most profit.

Larger vehicles, such as high-roof vans and US pick-up trucks, are making their way onto car carriers heading for Australia, but the infrequent shipping schedules cannot keep up with the current strong demand.

“There hasn’t been a new car-carrying ship built since COVID started,” said a logistics industry insider. “Most ships are only configured to carry a small proportion of larger vehicles.”

Vehicle Storage Shortage

Another significant issue in Australia’s new-car stock shortfall is the lack of vehicle storage facilities, which are now less than 30% full across the country. Before the pandemic, new cars were stored for 45 to 60 days between the docks and the dealers. Now, the average storage time is less than seven days, leading several transportation companies to go out of business.

Hyundai-Kia, a South Korean conglomerate, is generally immune to this problem as it builds its own ships and operates its own vehicle-carrying freighters under the GLOVIS brand. However, they still face stock shortages and lengthy delivery delays due to the global semiconductor crisis.

Toyota, the world’s largest manufacturer and Australia’s most popular brand, recently apologized to customers, many of whom have been waiting up to ten months for popular models. The Australian Automotive Dealers Association (AADA) has also urged customers to be patient amid the new-car shortage, which industry veterans say hasn’t occurred since World War II.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Before Buying a Used Car

Given the current situation, buying used cars has become a more essential option for those looking to purchase a vehicle. Online portals have revolutionized the process, making it easier to find the car you want. However, it’s important not to treat the purchasing procedure lightly.

The ad won’t tell you everything you need to know about the car. It’s crucial to watch out for less-obvious hazards and perform a pre-purchase inspection to ensure you’re making a quality purchase. Having a mechanic inspect the vehicle through a company like Greasemonkey Inspectors can reveal any flaws and reduce the risk of purchasing a lemon car. Researching the vehicle’s reported history can also help uncover hidden issues.

For the best pre-purchase car inspector in Melbourne, contact Greasemonkey Inspectors today!

Conclusion

Car delays in Melbourne and across Australia are caused by a combination of shipping challenges and vehicle storage shortages. While the situation is frustrating, understanding the causes and exploring alternatives, like purchasing a used car with a thorough inspection, can help you navigate these delays. For detailed inspection packages, check out our Inspection Packages to ensure your next car purchase is a wise investment.

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Liam AllenTips

Determine a Car’s Age

When considering the purchase of a vehicle, it’s crucial to understand how its age can impact its value, particularly when you plan to sell or trade it in the future. We at Greasemonkey Inspectors are here to guide you through understanding your car’s age and its implications.

Build Plate

The build plate indicates the completion date of your car’s production. Typically found in the engine bay, this plate may be riveted to a structural part of the body, such as the firewall or strut towers. Modern cars often feature a powder-coated label instead. This plate provides key details, including the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which contains a wealth of information about the car, like engine type, transmission type, and more. The build date, marked by month and year, is used to determine the car’s market value at trade-in.

Compliance Plate

After arriving at an Australian port, your car receives a compliance plate while in bond. This plate, similar to the build plate, might be an aluminum plate or a powder-coated label affixed to the car. It verifies that the vehicle complies with Australian Design Rules (ADRs), making it eligible for registration. The compliance plate includes essential information such as the approval number, category, manufacturer’s name, model line, series, VIN, GVM, and seating capacity. It also bears a statement about compliance with the Motor Vehicle Standards Act, which was updated in 2021 to the Road Vehicles Standards Act of 2018.

First Registration Year

The time between a car’s production and its first registration can be substantial. Transporting the car to Australia, compliance processing, and dealership inventory periods can delay registration by months. Therefore, a car bought in early 2023 might have been manufactured in 2022.

Model Years vs. Calendar Years

Automakers often introduce new model years in the final quarter of the preceding year. This practice, common in the northern hemisphere, can be misleading. For instance, a 2024 model might be available as early as October 2023. Some manufacturers introduce updates so frequently that model years are divided into quarters, adding to the confusion. Therefore, knowing the exact model year is important when assessing a car’s value.

Generation Codes

Manufacturers use various codes to distinguish between model generations. These codes, such as Baumeister codes for Mercedes-Benz or Entwicklungsnummer for BMW, serve as shorthand for enthusiasts and help identify specific models.

Impact on Trade-In Value

When trading in a car, the difference between its build year and first registration year can affect its value. Buyers often use the older build date as a bargaining chip. However, if you bought the car during a clearance sale, any loss in trade-in value is likely offset by the initial savings. Over time, the car’s condition will play a more significant role in its resale value than the difference between its build year and registration year.

Conclusion

Understanding your car’s age is essential for making informed decisions about buying and selling vehicles. If you have any questions or need a pre-purchase vehicle inspection in Melbourne, contact Greasemonkey Inspectors today. We are here to help you make the best choices for your automotive needs. Check out our Inspection Packages for more details.

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Liam AllenTips

Know When To Replace Your Used Car Brake Pads

Car brake pads are a major component of your vehicle’s braking system. Keeping them in working condition is crucial for the safety of both you and other drivers. If you just bought a used car, you might wonder if you need to replace the brake pads immediately. Read on to learn when to replace your used car brake pads.

What Are Car Brake Pads?

The number of brake pads your car has depends on its make and model, although typically your car will either have four or eight brake pads. The brake pads are what slow down your car and bring it to a stop.

When you step on the brake pedal, brake fluid is sent to your brake calipers, which press your brake pads against the brake rotors. The pressure applied depends on how hard you press the pedal.

The harder your brake pads are pressed against the brake rotors, the more the brake pads wear away. Brake pads are essential in slowing down your car when you apply the brakes.

When Do You Need to Replace Your Used Car Brake Pads?

Squeaking or Squealing Coming From Brakes

If your brake pads are near the end of their useful life, you’ll hear a squeaking or squealing noise coming from the brakes. This noise is typically caused by excessively worn-down pads. Once your pads are worn enough, you’ll start to experience a grinding noise, which can damage your rotors and increase repair costs.

Grinding Sound When Braking

Replace your brake pads immediately if you hear a grinding noise. Some brake pads have built-in metal wear indicators designed to make a loud noise to alert you that it’s time to replace the pads. Ignoring this can lead to more damage and higher repair costs.

Vibration When Braking

Vibration is another sign that your vehicle’s braking system needs professional help. Warped rotors often cause this, which creates uneven brake pad wear.

It Takes Longer to Stop

If your car takes longer to stop, it’s a major sign that your brakes need checking. This could mean your brake pads are completely worn down or that your brake fluid is low due to a leak. Get your brakes checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible to ensure safety.

Brake Pad Indicator Light Comes On

Most modern vehicles come with brake warning lights on the dash. These include the Antilock Braking System (ABS) light and the brake system warning light. If your brake light is on and your parking brake isn’t engaged, have a brake expert look at your system to diagnose the issue.

The Importance of Car Brake Pads

If your brake pads are worn or damaged, replacing them is crucial before driving. Here’s why:

  • Safety: Worn brake pads put your life, your passengers, and others on the road at risk.
  • Vehicle Damage: Without working brake pads, you might crash your car or cause expensive damage to other components.

Simply put, it’s dangerous to drive without working brake pads.

How Long Should Car Brake Pads Last?

The lifespan of brake pads largely depends on how you use your car. If you drive with a fully loaded car, tow heavy loads, or drive enthusiastically, your pads will wear out faster. In contrast, a lot of motorway miles typically mean less brake use. Generally, brake pads should last between 20,000 and 60,000 km.

How Much Does Brake Pad Replacement Cost?

The cost of new brake pads depends on your car. While replacing the brake pads, your mechanic might notice that other components, such as the brake rotors, are damaged or worn and will recommend replacing them too.

Also Read – 5 Must-Have Features For Your Used Car

Hire a Professional Car Technician in Melbourne

At Greasemonkey Inspectors, we offer professional pre-purchase vehicle inspection services in Melbourne. Our experts ensure your car is in optimal condition before you hit the road. We assist with independent, personal car purchase advice and provide thorough pre-purchase inspections.

If you’re looking for the best pre-purchase car inspector in Melbourne, contact Greasemonkey Inspectors today!

For more details on our services, explore our Inspection Packages.

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Liam AllenTips

Everything You Must Know About Car Starter Problem

Everyone expects their car to start without issues until it suddenly doesn’t. Cars have many moving parts, but a car that won’t start is one of the most common problems. Read on to discover why your car might not start and how to address it.

What is a Car Starter and How Does It Work?

A car starter, or starter motor, is responsible for turning the engine over and cranking it. Powered by the car battery, the starter motor is located within the engine.

The starter motor is connected to a solenoid that engages the starter motor’s drive gear to rotate the starter gear. As the starter motor turns, the engine starts, drawing in air and fuel to allow combustion. Once the engine is running, the starter motor disengages.

For a combustion engine to start, it needs fuel, oxygen, and a spark. When you turn the key or press the start button, the electric starting motor spins the engine. The spark plugs ignite the engine, which takes in air and fuel. The engine will continue running on its own after the combustion process begins, allowing you to turn off the starter motor.

Common issues with fuel, spark, oxygen, and the starter motor can prevent a car from starting.

Signs of a Bad Starter Motor

Recognizing the symptoms of a bad starter motor can save you from getting stranded. Here are some key signs:

  • Engine Noise: If you turn the key and hear a clicking sound or nothing at all, this could indicate a starter motor issue.
  • Headlight Test: Turn on your interior and headlights. If they work, a dead battery might not be the problem.
  • Grinding Noise: If you hear a grinding noise when turning the key, the starter motor gears might be worn out.
  • Slow Start: If the engine takes time to start or the motor struggles, the starter motor might be faulty.

When to Replace Your Starter Motor

Certain symptoms indicate that it’s time to replace the starter motor:

  • Overheating or Smoke: The starter motor can short-circuit and cause blown fuses. Overheating often accompanies smoke, indicating immediate attention is needed.
  • Starter Stays On: If the starter motor doesn’t disengage after the engine starts, it can cause serious damage. This usually means the solenoid contacts are stuck in the closed position.
  • Engine Won’t Start: If the engine won’t start but makes a whining sound, the starter motor might not be engaging the flywheel. Jumpstarting might work for manual cars, but consult a mechanic if it fails.
  • Recurring Issues: If the car occasionally fails to start and then starts after several attempts, it’s likely a faulty relay. The relay sends electrical current from the battery to the starter, and if it’s faulty, the starter motor might not engage immediately.

What to Do If Your Car Still Won’t Start

If you notice any of these signs, address the problem immediately to avoid further damage and costly repairs. Contact a professional mechanic if your car still won’t start.

For the best pre-purchase car inspector in Melbourne, contact Greasemonkey Inspectors today. We offer comprehensive inspections to ensure your vehicle is in top condition before purchase.

Explore our Inspection Packages to find the right one for your needs.

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Liam AllenTips

How to Inspect the Engine When Purchasing a Used Car?

Blog Content:

Purchasing a used car is a significant decision that requires careful consideration, especially regarding the engine’s condition. Engine problems can be costly to repair, and evaluating the engine’s mechanical condition during a quick test drive is challenging. At Greasemonkey Inspectors, we recommend having a used car thoroughly inspected by our qualified mechanics before finalizing the purchase. Here are some key pointers to consider when inspecting a used car for engine problems or lack of maintenance.

Examine Service Records

Service records, while not always available, can be highly beneficial. If the dealer or seller can provide proof of regular maintenance, it’s a good sign. Look for oil changes and mileage records. Regular oil changes are crucial as they range from 5,000 km to 30,000 km depending on the manufacturer, and may also be based on time (six months to a year). A vehicle driven for an extended period without an oil change might have internal engine wear. Additionally, check if the timing belt has been changed and other maintenance performed.

Inspect Under the Bonnet

Before inspecting under the bonnet, ensure the engine is off, the transmission is in “Park,” and the parking brake is engaged. Look for leaks, the smell of burnt oil or antifreeze, signs of poor-quality repairs, or ‘racing’ modifications. Remember, a clean engine bay doesn’t necessarily indicate a well-maintained engine. Here are some specific areas to check:

Burnt Oil Smell

Repairing oil leaks can be expensive. As mileage increases, piston rings and cylinders wear out, increasing crankcase pressure and forcing oil out via various seals and gaskets. This issue is more common in turbocharged engines. A well-maintained engine typically doesn’t have leaks.

Visible Oil Leaks

Oil leaks might not be visible from above, so check from underneath. Use your phone to take photos or videos of the engine and transmission’s lower parts. Everything should be completely dry.

Coolant and Other Fluid Leaks

Even if a vehicle runs perfectly, a coolant leak from the radiator requires attention. A cracked radiator can indicate more serious problems, so it’s best to avoid cars with such issues.

Low Oil Level and Contaminated Oil

Check the oil condition using the dipstick while the engine is off. If the oil level is low, it suggests the engine consumes oil or hasn’t had an oil change in a long time. Low oil levels cause faster engine wear.

Performance Modifications

Be cautious with vehicles modified for performance. Properly done modifications can enhance a vehicle, but poorly done ones can cause numerous issues. If the vehicle has been modified, it has likely been raced or otherwise abused.

Timing Belt Check

Some vehicles have a timing chain instead of a belt. Timing belts typically need replacement between 90,000 km and 180,000 km or every 4-8 years. Replacing a timing belt costs between $800-$1800 for a 4-cylinder engine and $2000-$3500 or more for a 6-cylinder engine. Check the service records for timing belt replacement or ask a mechanic to inspect it.

Cold Start

A cold start can reveal hidden engine problems. Arrive at the dealer early to start the engine cold. This will also indicate the battery’s condition. Listen for engine noises and watch for smoke. Blue smoke indicates the engine is burning oil, which is a red flag.

Test Drive

During the test drive, ensure all dashboard warning lights turn off. Any remaining lights, like the Check Engine light, indicate a detected fault. Listen for engine noises, vibrations, or power issues. The engine should run smoothly without shaking or hesitation. Test the vehicle in various modes: acceleration, deceleration, stop-and-go traffic, and highway cruising. The temperature gauge should remain in the middle of the scale once the engine is warm.

Even if everything seems fine, we at Greasemonkey Inspectors strongly advise having the used car inspected by an independent mechanic before purchasing. If you are looking for the best pre-purchase car inspector in Melbourne, contact Greasemonkey Inspectors today! Explore our Inspection Packages for more information.

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Liam AllenTips

Tips To Retain Your Car’s Resale Value

Depreciation is a significant factor when buying a car. It refers to your car losing value over time due to wear and tear. At Greasemonkey Inspectors, we have some tips to help you maintain your car’s resale value.

Cars generally lose value as they age. From the moment you drive your new car, it starts depreciating. However, by following a few strategies, you can minimize this depreciation and maximize your car’s resale value.

Choose the Right Make and Model

Choosing a popular make and model is crucial if you want to maintain your car’s resale value. Dealers are more likely to offer you a better price for a car that is easy to sell. Opt for vehicles known for good fuel economy, low running costs, and reliability. For example, brands like Toyota often have higher resale values. Be mindful that if the model you want to buy is about to be replaced, its resale value might drop significantly.

Maintain a Comprehensive Service History

Keeping up with regular services and logging each one is vital. A complete service history gives potential buyers confidence in your car and shows it has been well-maintained. This is particularly important when considering the car’s resale value in Melbourne and throughout Australia.

Research Resale Values

To understand how much your car will be worth in the future, start researching resale values through car valuation services like RedBook. These services can provide future valuation options to help you determine your car’s worth in one, two, three, four, and five years. Utilize data from motoring organizations around Australia, such as NRMA, which include depreciation in their car running costs surveys.

Avoid Smoking in Your Car

Cigarette smoke can significantly decrease your car’s resale value. The smell and residue left by smoking are off-putting to many potential buyers, reducing the market for your car.

Choose Parking Spots Wisely

Minimize door dings, bumper scratches, and fading plastics by parking away from other cars. Choose spots that leave your car less vulnerable to damage from passing or turning vehicles. If possible, keep your car in a garage to protect it from harsh weather.

Monitor Age and Mileage

Mileage affects depreciation more than age. The more miles you put on your car, the quicker it will depreciate. To maintain a higher resale value, avoid putting excessive mileage on your car and ensure it remains in outstanding condition.

Wax Your Car Regularly

Waxing your car a few times a year protects the surface and helps maintain its color. A well-maintained paint job can significantly enhance your car’s resale value.

Invest in an Extra Set of Tires

An extra set of tires for winter may cost upfront but can save you money in the long run. It reduces the likelihood of accidents and prolongs the life of your tires, maintaining your car’s value.

Get Comprehensive Car Insurance

Choosing comprehensive car insurance can lower repair or accident-related costs, allowing you to keep your car in top shape. This helps maintain its resale value, whether you sell today, tomorrow, or next year.

Also Read – Basic Car Maintenance Everyone Should Know

Hire a Professional Car Technician in Melbourne

For those looking to buy a secondhand car, a professional pre-purchase car inspection is essential. Greasemonkey Inspectors offers comprehensive pre-purchase car inspections in Melbourne to ensure your dream car is not a scam. Our expert technicians provide thorough checks to ensure your car is mechanically sound.

Explore our Inspection Packages to keep your car in top condition and maximize its resale value.

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Liam AllenTips

Car History Report vs Pre Purchase Vehicle Inspection Report

When buying a used car, it’s essential to make an informed decision. Two crucial tools help us in this process: the Car History Report and the Pre Purchase Vehicle Inspection Report. Understanding the differences between these reports can save us from future headaches and unexpected expenses.

What is a Car History Report?

A Car History Report provides detailed information about a vehicle’s past. It includes data on previous owners, accident history, title issues, mileage verification, and service records. This report is valuable for uncovering any hidden problems in a vehicle’s history that the seller might not disclose.

What is a Pre Purchase Vehicle Inspection Report?

A Pre Purchase Vehicle Inspection Report, on the other hand, is a comprehensive evaluation of the car’s current condition. Experts like Greasemonkey Inspectors conduct these inspections to assess the vehicle’s mechanical and structural integrity. This report is crucial for identifying potential issues that might not be apparent from a simple test drive or visual inspection.

Benefits of a Pre Purchase Vehicle Inspection Report

Choosing a Pre Purchase Vehicle Inspection Report gives us peace of mind before making a significant investment. Here are some key benefits:

  1. Uncover Hidden Issues: We can detect problems that aren’t visible to the untrained eye.
  2. Negotiate Better Deals: Use the inspection report to negotiate a better price based on the identified issues.
  3. Ensure Safety: Confirm the vehicle is safe to drive, avoiding potential accidents or breakdowns.
  4. Future Cost Savings: Avoid costly repairs down the line by addressing issues upfront.

Why We Need Both Reports

While a Car History Report tells us about the vehicle’s past, a Pre Purchase Vehicle Inspection Report focuses on its present condition. Both reports together give us a complete picture, ensuring we make a well-informed decision. We can verify if the vehicle’s history matches its current state, making sure there are no surprises after the purchase.

Also Read – What To Do with Your Pre Purchase Car Inspection Report?

Choosing the Right Service for a Pre Purchase Vehicle Inspection Report

In Australia, especially in Melbourne, it’s crucial to select a reliable service for a Pre Purchase Vehicle Inspection Report. Greasemonkey Inspectors, located in Melbourne, offers top-notch inspection services. Our expertise ensures client’s receive a detailed and accurate report, helping clients to make confident buying decisions. 

Conclusion

Before buying a used car, let’s make sure we cover all bases. A Car History Report provides a look into the vehicle’s past, while a Pre Purchase Vehicle Inspection Report gives us a clear picture of its current condition. Together, these reports help us make informed decisions, ensuring our safety and satisfaction. To get the best inspection services, visit Greasemonkey Inspectors in Melbourne. Check out our Inspection Packages today and drive with confidence.

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Liam AllenTips

What Does Car Make And Model Mean?

When you think of a vehicle’s name, you likely think of its make and model. These terms describe a specific car and are often used together but can sometimes be used separately. For example, Toyota is a car make, and Camry is a car model. Knowing the difference between make and model is essential, especially when shopping for or selling a car. So, what does car make and model mean?

What Do the Terms Car Make and Model Mean?

The terms make and model describe a specific car and are frequently used together but can sometimes be used separately. If you’re talking to someone with a good knowledge of cars, you might just say you own a Civic rather than say “Honda Civic,” because you know they understand that all Civics are Hondas.

Car Make Meaning

Simply put, the make is the brand of the car, and the model is the specific product. Think of Tim Tam. Arnott’s is the brand; Tim Tam is the specific product.

Some examples of popular car makes:

  • Ford
  • Chevrolet
  • Nissan
  • Honda
  • Toyota
  • Volkswagen

Every make has multiple models that it produces. Toyota, for example, offers several models including the Camry, Corolla, 4Runner, Tundra, and others. Makes are typically global companies with locations in multiple countries, though most makes have a specific country of origin where they keep their main headquarters. Toyota is based out of Japan, Volkswagen is a German company, Ford is American, and so on.

Some car makes are under a parent company that is also a make. Consider the company Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA). Fiat and Chrysler are their own makes, but Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is also the parent company of makes like Dodge and Jeep. Acura is a luxury make owned by Honda, and Lexus is a luxury make under Toyota.

Car Model Meaning

Once you know the make or brand, the model narrows it down even more.

When talking about a car, models refer to the specific type of car. Some famous models of cars include Beetle, Mustang, Fiesta, and Pontiac.

To clarify this further, look at the make and model of the cars below:

  • Honda Civic – Honda is the make, Civic is the model.
  • Vauxhall Corsa Activ – Vauxhall is the make, Corsa Activ is the model.
  • Ford Mustang – Ford is the make, Mustang is the model.

Differences Between Cars of the Same Model

Cars of the same model can vary greatly in body style and trim level. Even if you have two vehicles that are the same model in front of you, they could still look very different.

Body Styles

Auto manufacturers might make a certain car model with several different body style options. For example, you can buy a 2018 Honda Civic as a sedan, coupe, or hatchback. Here are some of the most common body style types:

  • Coupe
  • Sedan
  • Hatchback
  • Convertible
  • Wagon
  • SUV

The body style informs a vehicle’s general shape, the number of doors, and mechanical setups, such as the engine, transmission, and drivetrain. Body style can be the most important distinction for a vehicle. It has a major impact on how a car is best used.

Trim Levels

In addition to body styles, a car manufacturer might offer several trim options for a given model. Trim levels relate to the equipment and the styling of a particular vehicle.

Common trim levels are:

  • Standard: no upgrades.
  • Sport: upgraded engine performance and handling.
  • Luxury: upgraded interior and smoother suspension.

Model Year

The model year of a car is one of the main ways that cars of the same make and model are differentiated. However, a vehicle’s model year is not necessarily the same as the year it was manufactured. It is important to note that the cost of car insurance changes with the age of a car.

You can usually purchase a vehicle for a given model year a few months before the calendar year actually starts. For example, the 2018 Honda Civic was available for purchase starting in late summer 2017.

How to Find Your Car’s Make and Model

Unsure of the make and model of a car? You can usually determine these by checking the emblems, logos, and badging on the exterior. The vehicle’s registration certificate will also list its make and model. You can find more information, like model year, manufacturing location, and equipment specs, by searching the vehicle’s VIN (vehicle identification number). Locating the VIN is straightforward. Check where the dashboard meets the windshield on the driver’s side. There, you’ll find the VIN, which is 17 digits long.

Hire a Professional Car Technician in Melbourne

We have engaged with many clients for independent, personal car purchase advice. While we are not a car broker, we have assisted clients with discussions on car make and model in Melbourne, year, and version of the vehicle best suited to their needs. In some cases, clients, especially repeat clients (and we have many), have asked us to either source a car for them or assist in the negotiations.

Also read – 5 Must-Have Features For Your Used Car

As much as some of us think we’re backyard mechanics, you can’t go past actually getting a used car checked out by a professional to determine whether it is mechanically sound. There’s nothing worse than driving away with your new purchase, only to find that it has an issue that is going to cost you dearly.

If you want to buy a secondhand car, have a professional inspector like Greasemonkey Inspectors do a thorough pre-purchase car inspection in Melbourne to ensure that your dream car is operating properly and not a scam.

If you are looking for the best pre-purchase car inspector in Melbourne, do not hesitate to contact Greasemonkey Inspectors today!

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Liam AllenTips

The Checklist You Need When Inspecting Used Cars

When aiming to get the most value for your money, conducting a thorough inspection of a used car is essential. To avoid purchasing a car that may leave you stranded, we recommend following a comprehensive inspection process. Greasemonkey Inspectors provides professional pre-purchase vehicle inspections to help ensure you make a wise investment.

Examine the Mileage

On average, most people drive around 15,000 km per year. A car with higher mileage than this may require a discount compared to its less-driven counterparts. Use resources like REDBOOK and CARSALES to determine the market value of used cars in Melbourne and across Australia.

Examine the Vehicle’s History Report

Check the vehicle’s history for any previous damage. The seller might provide this report, or you can obtain it online or through an inspection service. Remember, these reports may not include all information, so a professional inspection by Greasemonkey Inspectors can provide additional insights into the car’s condition.

Check for Rust and Paint Discoloration

Inspect the paint job closely to reveal any past issues. Compare the color and quality uniformity of panels. Mismatched panels likely indicate past accidents and replacements. Rust on the bodywork can be an aesthetic issue or signify deeper, costly problems. Examine the bonnet and undercarriage for further evidence of rust.

Tyre Inspection

Conduct a coin tread depth test to check tyre wear. Don’t forget to inspect the spare tyre. Uneven tyre wear could signal an alignment problem, which may need addressing.

Inspect the Undercarriage and Check for Leaks

While checking the tyres, look for signs of leakage on the ground and undercarriage. Leaks can be costly to repair but may also serve as a negotiation point.

Check Fluid Levels and Conditions

Examine various fluids under the bonnet to gauge the vehicle’s maintenance:

  • Oil Levels and Condition: A recent service usually results in light-colored oil, whereas dark or muddy oil indicates neglect.
  • Transmission Fluid: Ensure high levels and a clear reddish color.
  • Brake Fluid: Low levels might mean worn brakes. Dark fluid indicates infrequent replacement.
  • Antifreeze: Should be clear, without oil contamination.
  • Battery: Look for leaks, damaged cables, and corrosion.

Lights: Headlights, Taillights, and Signal Lights

Ensure all lights, including brake lights, turn signals, headlights, and interior lights, are functioning properly. Headlight lenses should be clear.

Conduct a Driving Test

Listen for unusual sounds or vibrations. Check engine performance, steering alignment, and how the vehicle handles different road surfaces. Test the brakes and parking brake. For manual transmissions, ensure smooth gear shifting.

Also Read – The Smart Move Before Buying a Used Car in Melbourne

Get a Professional Inspection

If any part of the inspection is unclear, consult a professional. A mechanic can uncover issues that can be used in negotiations. The cost of a professional inspection by Greasemonkey Inspectors is minimal compared to the potential expenses of purchasing a problem-ridden vehicle. Check for comprehensiveness, OBD scan tool use, and peer comparison when selecting a service.

Explore our Inspection Packages for comprehensive pre-purchase inspections.

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