A car can look tidy in an advertisement and still have problems that are hard to spot during a quick viewing. A Getafix pre-purchase inspection gives you a practical mechanical assessment to help you make a more informed buying decision.
Understand the car before you commit.
Arrange the inspection before buying
Send us the listing, registration or VIN, vehicle location and the seller’s contact arrangements. Confirm that the seller will allow an inspection and access to the vehicle. We agree on the appointment and inspection scope before the visit. If you have already bought the car, ask about a post-purchase inspection instead.
Condition, operation & maintenance
The aim is to understand the vehicle’s current condition, how accessible components operate and what may need attention. Tell us about concerns in the advertisement, missing service history or anything you noticed during a viewing. Inspection access, permissions and vehicle condition affect the checks that can be completed; we confirm these details with you.
Turn findings into a decision
We explain the findings and distinguish current concerns from maintenance that may be coming up. That gives you a clearer basis for deciding whether to proceed, ask more questions or discuss the price with the seller. If a concern needs a specialist assessment or further testing, we explain that too.
Know the inspection’s limits
An inspection reflects what can be assessed at the time and within the agreed scope. It cannot reveal every hidden defect or guarantee future reliability. A mechanical inspection also does not replace checking ownership, finance, written-off status or other purchase records. Keep those checks separate as part of your buying decision.
Before you book
Questions about this service
Can you inspect a car at a private seller’s home?
Yes, provided the seller agrees and the location is suitable. Share the address and any access restrictions before booking. Inspections at other locations can also be discussed with the seller’s permission.
How much does a pre-purchase inspection cost?
The usual price is $363 including GST ($330 + GST). Our current spring and summer offer is $275 including GST ($250 + GST) for inspections completed by 31 December 2026, subject to availability and the published offer terms.
Is this a registration inspection or a guarantee?
No. This is a pre-purchase mechanical condition assessment. It does not replace a required registration inspection and does not guarantee that no problems will develop after purchase.