Pre-purchase vehicle inspections
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Cheaper for members -
Mobile and workshop inspections available -
Qualified, independent technicians -
Choose from total care or mechanical inspections
Buying a new or used car in South Australia?
A pre-purchase vehicle inspection gives you a detailed report on a vehicle’s condition.
This could help you to negotiate a better deal and save you from unexpected costs.
Pre-purchase total care inspection
This is our most comprehensive inspection. We take a detailed look at everything from seat belts and mountings to window
glass. We even check if the car has ever been written off, stolen or is under
finance.
We also take a detailed look at the car's mechanical condition. This includes an inspection of the engine, transmission, electrical systems, suspension, brakes, fuel and exhaust systems.
$329 for RAA members
$369 for non-members. Additional fees may apply for some rare or old vehicles.
Pre-purchase mechanical inspection
During a mechanical inspection, we undertake a thorough check of a car’s mechanical condition. This inspection covers all of the vehicle’s major systems.
This includes the engine, transmission, electrical systems, suspension, brakes, fuel and exhaust systems.
$289 for RAA members
$325 for non-members. Additional fees may apply for some rare or older vehicles.
Compare our pre-purchase vehicle inspections
Total care inspectionFrom $329 |
Mechanical inspectionFrom $289 |
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| Write off, theft and finance check | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Seat mountings and seat belt | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Engine and motor | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Cooling system | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Fuel and exhaust system | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Electrical systems | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Transmission | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Wheels and tyres | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Locks & latches | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Braking systems | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Suspension/steering | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Chassis | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Body and paint damage | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Window glass and mirrors | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Phone consultation with an RAA technical advisor | ✔️ | ❌ |
Inspection locations
You can get your vehicle inspected at a location you choose in Adelaide or at the our workshop in Mile End.
Our mobile inspections team simply need an inspection location that is safe, flat, not on a public roadway, and has room to use a trolley jack.
Some inspections are more complex and may need a trip to the our workshop in Mile End. Use our online quote and booking tool to find out which inspections your car is eligible for.
Other popular inspections
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Taxi and rideshare inspections
If you drive a taxi or a rideshare vehicle, you must get your car inspected regularly. -
Business and fleet inspections
We also offer inspections for businesses, government and car dealerships. -
Specialist inspections
NSW and NT roadworthy checks, speedometer accuracy checks and other specialist inspections.
Frequently asked questions
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Are pre-purchase vehicle inspections worth the cost?
Buying a car is an expensive decision – especially if you get it wrong.
A vehicle inspection can help you find mechanical issues and understand if repairs are likely to be costly. During a pre-purchase total care inspection, we also check if the car has been written off, stolen, or is under finance.
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Where can I get a pre-purchase inspection in regional SA?
You can organise an inspection at an RAA Approved Vehicle Inspection Centre (AVIC). These are trusted local businesses who we have approved to work on our behalf.
An AVIC can offer these inspections:
- pre-purchase mechanical inspections
- owner mechanical inspections
- used-car warranty mechanical inspections
- NSW & NT roadworthy inspections
Locations
Call to discuss your inspection and request a quote.
Berri
Roly's Automotive Services
8582 2667
27 Jellett Rd, BerriMount Gambier
Autocare Mount Gambier
8725 2220
17 Calula Drive, Mount GambierPort Lincoln
Coffey Automotive
8682 4579
34 Edinburgh St, Port LincolnRocket Repairs
8682 6710
24 Proper Bay Road, Port Lincoln -
What should I look out for when buying a second-hand car?
Safety and reliability.
RAA membership comes with free advice from our team of motoring experts. If you have a question about buying a car, you can call an expert on 8202 4689 or enquire online.A pre-purchase vehicle inspection can help you to find any issues before you buy a car. This could save you thousands of dollars.
Find out more in sa move – the RAA magazine
Would your car pass an RAA inspection?
RAA’s motoring experts uncover an average of 10 faults each time they inspect a car. Would your potential purchase pass the test?
Sale of stolen, written-off cars still alarming
A surprising number of cars on the market have been stolen, written-off or are under debt.
Advice for buying a used car
A car is likely to be one of the most expensive investments you’ll make. It’s essential to choose a reliable car that suits your needs and budget.
You might also be interested in
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It's better to be a member
RAA members can receive discounts on shopping and entertainment with RAA Rewards, enter exclusive competitions and access member-only services.
Plus, we love to reward our loyal members with savings on select policies and products.
We're here to help
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Call us
Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm -
Enquire online
Send us a message and we'll contact you -
Find a shop
Drop in and chat face-to-face -
Help centre
Find answers to frequently asked questions, key documents and more.
Things you should know
Terms and conditions
Keep in mind that prices may change due to things like unexpected difficulties with the vehicle, removal of parts and covers, or the need for additional workshop facilities. Take a moment to read the Terms and Conditions (PDF, 1.22MB) that may apply to your type of inspection.
What do we inspect? Download our Inspection contents overview form (PDF, 432 KB).