Mobile vs workshop pre-purchase inspection: which to choose

Both work. Both produce good reports. The right choice depends on the car, the seller, and how much of your day you're willing to spend co-ordinating logistics. Here's how to think about it.

When mobile is the right call

• Seller can't or won't bring the car to a workshop
• Dealer wants the car to stay on the lot
• You're in a different suburb to the car
• Multiple cars to inspect in different locations
• The car has rego/insurance issues that make a long drive risky

When workshop wins

• Older 4WD with potential chassis rust — a 2-post hoist makes the difference
• Suspected accident damage where panel alignment under load helps
• Heavy commercial or trailer with structural underbody concerns
• Buyer wants to be physically present and walk under the car themselves

Common questions

Do you have a workshop option in Sydney?

Yes — we partner with a trusted workshop in Marrickville for jobs where a 2-post hoist is needed. There's a small premium for hoist time but no extra labour cost.

What if the dealer's site has no shade or no parking?

We'll work in 35°C heat or driving rain if needed, but for proper diagnostics we'll move the car to the nearest covered loading bay first. We have a pop-up canopy for emergencies.