Pre-Purchase Inspection

Buying a used car? Don’t take any chances. Here’s the fast, easy way to ensure it is worth buying.

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The VTNZ Pre-Purchase Inspection is:

  • Fast and easy. An inspection usually takes between an hour or two from start to finish (though most customers choose to leave the car with us and we contact them when it's finished).
  • Cost-effective. There are four prices available, between $99 and $140.  The full Pre-Purchase Inspection is only $140 and includes both The Vehicle Information Report and a RedBook Vehicle Valuation Certificate: a small price to pay to be sure you’re not buying a lemon.  However, if you don't require an independent valuation or the full history of the vehicle, you can separate these from each other.
  • Flexible. We inspect all makes and models of cars, vans and light commercial vehicles.
  • Independent. You can be sure we have no connection with either the car or its seller.
  • Clear and concise. You get a clear, easy to understand inspection report. If you have any questions, we'll be happy to talk you through the report.
  • Fly Buys. You can collect 1 Point for every $20 you spend - so if you're getting a full VTNZ Pre-Purchase Inspection, that means you collect 7 Fly Buys Points.

Your VTNZ Pre-Purchase Inspection will include:

Mechanical and electrical. Engine compression and wear, the cooling system, wheels, electrical, brakes, exhaust, steering system.

Exterior and underbody. Visual checks for corrosion, repairs, accident damage, fluid leaks.

Interior. All interior components are checked for operation and general condition. This includes electrical checks of switches for lights, wipers, indicators and hazard lights, and all warning lights. Car jack, wheel brace and basic toolkit are checked as being present.

Road test. Operation of vehicle, including gears, engine noise and drive line. Handling, steering and brakes are assessed under normal driving conditions.

The Vehicle Information Report (VIR). This includes a full ownership report, and notification if the vehicle is stolen or money is owing on it. The report also notes inconsistent odometer readings, expired Warrant of Fitness, Licence or Road User Charges, and provides border inspection information on flood-damaged or damaged imports.  (For $30 you can purchase a VIR on its own if you want to check out the vehicle's history before getting a full VTNZ Pre-Purchase Inspection.)

A RedBook Vehicle Valuation. This includes two figures - a trade in amount and a private sale amount. It takes into account the make, model, kilometres and condition of the vehicle.  (For $19.95 you can purchase a RedBook Valuation on its own if you want to check out the vehicle's value before getting a full VTNZ Pre-Purchase Inspection.)

Your next steps:

Find your nearest Pre-Purchase Inspection station online. Then come in to see us and we’ll inspect your car while you're there so that you can buy with confidence. To avoid disappointment phone us first to make sure that we can see your car at a time that suits you - at some of our busier stations, you will need to make an appointment.

"I’m no mechanic so a VTNZ Pre-Purchase Inspection is the ideal way for me to be sure I’m getting a good, safe car." Jim