Before you hand over the money
- Check the car's history and any money owing on it (a PPSR check) before you pay.
- Look at the WOF and rego dates on the windscreen: a WOF due soon can hide a fail.
- Get it inspected by someone who is not the seller. It costs far less than a gearbox.
- Use the inspection report to negotiate: known repairs come off the price.
Questions
What does a pre-purchase inspection check?
A mechanic checks the engine, gearbox, brakes, suspension, steering, tyres, body and rust, looks for leaks and warning lights, scans for fault codes and takes it for a drive. You get a written report of what needs work and roughly what it will cost.
Can it be done at the seller's house?
Yes. Mobile mechanics can do it on the seller's driveway or at a car yard. Put the seller's suburb in the job and say whether the car is at a dealer or a private seller.
How fast can I get one?
Post the job with when you need it. Local businesses reply with a price and when they can do it, often the same or next day, which matters when other buyers are looking at the same car.
How much does a pre-purchase inspection cost in Auckland?
On AutoRepairs NZ, 3 local businesses list a pre-purchase inspection from $125, GST incl. (November 2026). Mobile inspections may add travel.
Should I still get one from a dealer?
It is worth it for any used car you have not owned before. Dealers have to tell you about known faults, but an independent check finds what nobody mentioned.