How to Inspect a Used Car Before Buying It: Expert Tips for Every Buyer

Buying a used car can be one of the smartest financial decisions you’ll make — but it also comes with risks. Hidden mechanical problems, poor maintenance history, or cosmetic issues can quickly turn a “great deal” into a money pit.

At Precision Pro Protect in Holden Hill, we’ve helped countless buyers make informed choices with professional pre-purchase inspections. Here’s our expert guide to inspecting a used car before you commit.

1. Start with the Exterior

Walk around the car and look for:

• Paint mismatches or overspray (could signal accident repairs)

• Rust spots near wheel arches, door sills, or undercarriage

• Dents, scratches, and swirl marks (may affect resale value)

• Even panel gaps — uneven spacing can mean poor repair work

💡 Pro Tip: Bring a small magnet. If it doesn’t stick in certain areas, body filler may have been used to cover up damage.

2. Inspect the Interior

The cabin often reveals how well the car has been cared for:

• Check seat condition (tears, stains, or sagging foam)

• Look for water damage under carpets or in the boot

• Test all electronics — windows, lights, air conditioning, and infotainment system

• Sniff for odours (mould or smoke can indicate deeper problems)

3. Pop the Hood

Mechanical health is the most important factor:

• Check engine oil — dark sludge can mean poor maintenance

• Coolant level and colour — milky coolant could signal head gasket issues

• Belts and hoses — look for cracks or fraying

• Battery condition — no corrosion on terminals

⚠️ If you spot leaks, walk away or request a mechanic’s assessment before proceeding.

4. Test the Tyres and Suspension

• Inspect tyre tread depth and check for uneven wear (could mean alignment issues).

• Push down on each corner of the car — excessive bouncing may mean worn shocks or struts.

5. Take a Test Drive

Never buy without driving first:

• Listen for engine knocks, rattles, or squeaks

• Check that the steering feels smooth and responsive

• Test the brakes — they should be firm and not spongy

• Accelerate and decelerate to see how the transmission shifts

6. Review the Logbook & Service History

A complete service history is gold. Look for:

• Regular servicing intervals recorded in the logbook

• Major services completed (timing belt, transmission fluid, etc.)

• Consistency — avoid cars with big gaps between services

👉 At Precision Pro Protect, we provide logbook servicing that keeps warranties valid and gives future buyers confidence in your car’s history.

7. Get a Professional Pre-Purchase Inspection

Even if you know cars, you might miss hidden issues. That’s where a professional inspection pays off.

At Precision Pro Protect Holden Hill, our mechanics check:

• Full engine and transmission health

• Diagnostic scans for hidden error codes

• Brake and suspension condition

• Paintwork and body integrity

• Tyres and underbody

This gives you peace of mind before making a major purchase.

Final Word: Don’t Gamble on Your Next Car

A used car can be a fantastic buy — but only if you know what you’re getting. Taking the time to inspect properly (and getting a professional opinion) can save you thousands in future repairs.

📅 Book your pre-purchase inspection with Precision Pro Protect Holden Hill today and buy your next car with confidence.

👉 Schedule Your Inspection Now →