Pre-purchase car inspections in Melbourne
Cox Auto specialises in pre-purchase car inspections for Melbourne’s European cars. Our qualified inspectors offer detailed evaluations to help you avoid costly mistakes and make confident, informed buying decisions.
Trusted, independent insights
Cox Auto gives you an unbiased view of a vehicle’s true condition. We are not affiliated with sellers or dealerships, so you can rely on our findings to guide your decision, not someone else’s sales pitch.
Clear, upfront pricing
We provide transparent quotes for all pre-purchase vehicle inspections with no hidden fees. Our inspection packages are competitive and straightforward. What we quote upfront is what you pay at the end.
Easy-to-understand advice
Not sure what you’re looking at under the bonnet? That’s okay. We break down complex findings in plain English. Our detailed report gives you a clear picture of the vehicle’s condition, so you know exactly what you’re buying.
Buying a car from a private seller? As the saying goes, “buyer beware”.
Cox Auto takes the guesswork out of private car purchases with thorough pre-purchase inspections for all European makes and models. Melbourne’s car aficionados have trusted our veteran technicians to uncover hidden faults, assess mechanical condition, and check safety compliance for nearly half a century. We’ll give you the clarity to negotiate confidently or avoid a costly mistake.
Why is a pre-purchase car inspection important?
Buying a European car without expert checks risks expensive hidden faults. Booking a pre-purchase car inspection Melbourne buyers can trust gives clarity on the vehicle’s true condition. Our automotive specialists use advanced diagnostics. Costs vary, so see our service cost section for details.
What’s included in a Cox Auto pre-purchase car inspection
Our pre-purchase inspections go beyond a quick look under the bonnet. We combine advanced diagnostics with hands-on checks to give you a full picture of the vehicle’s condition, so you know exactly what you’re buying before you commit.
Vehicle inspection checks can include:
-
Full electronic diagnostics scan for fault codes. -
Brand-specific diagnostics using factory software.
-
Brake system wear and performance check.
-
Driver assistance systems performance check.
-
Air suspension and ride height calibration.
-
Tyre tread depth and condition assessment.
-
Adaptive LED or Xenon headlight alignment check.
-
Service history verification against manufacturer schedule.
How much does it cost to get a pre-purchase inspection
For European imports, Cox Auto’s pre-purchase inspections typically range from $350 to $550. This covers brands like BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Land Rover, where specialist diagnostics and in-depth system checks are essential. We’ll provide a clear, fixed quote before starting so you know exactly what to expect.
Servicing European car owners across inner Melbourne
For more than 40 years, Cox Auto has helped inner Melbourne car buyers make confident purchase decisions. From first-time buyers to seasoned collectors, our pre-purchase inspections have become a trusted step in the buying process, giving customers the clarity they need before investing in a European vehicle.
Pre-purchase inspections for all European car brands
Cox Auto’s inspections cover European cars of every generation, from classic Jaguar E-Types and vintage Mercedes-Benz SLs to modern BMW M-series, Audi e-trons and Porsche 911s. We work with everything from cherished collectibles to daily drives and the latest electric models, giving each the expert attention that only our decades of experience can provide.
How to book your pre-purchase car inspection in Melbourne
We know buying a European car often comes with pressure from the seller to decide quickly. Our process is designed to move fast without missing details, so you get the answers you need before your deadline.
- Call us as soon as you find a car you’re serious about.
- Share the make, model, year, and seller’s timeframe.
- Choose the earliest inspection slot that works for you.
- We confirm the booking and outline the checks we’ll perform.
- Bring the car in or arrange for the seller to deliver it.
- Get a comprehensive inspection report with clear advice on your next move.
Frequently Asked Questions
A pre-purchase inspection is a professional automotive assessment of a used car’s condition, completed before you buy it. It checks mechanical systems, safety features, and wear and tear, helping you avoid unexpected problems and make an informed choice.
You can book a pre-purchase car inspection through licensed mechanics or inspection specialists. At Cox Auto, we offer comprehensive inspections in Melbourne and VIC to help you buy with confidence.
If you’re buying a used vehicle from a private seller or dealership, we strongly recommend a pre-purchase inspection. Buying a nearly-new or older vehicle can save you thousands, but it comes with risk. An inspection helps you make informed decisions with confidence.
A roadworthy certificate in Victoria is a safety requirement, but it won’t tell you about service history, wear and tear, or upcoming expenses. A comprehensive pre-purchase car inspection reveals more than just road legality.
If a seller has disclosed repairs or accident history, it’s important to check how the vehicle has been maintained since. Our inspection services can uncover whether the repairs were sufficient and if new issues may arise. If needed, we can also recommend general car repairs in Melbourne to address any concerns.
Yes — we inspect vehicles thoroughly to detect leaks, worn components, electrical faults, and other hidden risks. Our vehicle inspection services are designed to reveal problems that could affect value or safety.
Absolutely. It’s highly recommended that you get one done. The cost of a detailed inspection report is minimal compared to what you might spend fixing hidden issues. It’s a smart step for anyone looking to purchase a used car with peace of mind.
Yes, our findings can give you negotiation power or even steer you away from a bad buy. A strong report makes it easier to negotiate and buy with confidence. We offer flexible inspection packages and convenient scheduling, so you can book online and move forward.
Learn more about pre-purchase inspections
Not all used cars are equal, and neither are all inspections. Learn more about how our detailed assessments help you make an informed decision when buying privately or through a dealer. You can also check out our guide to how safe your car really is before buying your next car.
Buying a used car checklist
Questions to Ask When Buying a Used Car
