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The 60-point used car pre-purchase checklist

The exact field checklist our AIS-authorised inspectors use across Sydney every day — now yours to print, save and use on your next inspection.

What you'll get

✓ 10 sections, 60+ inspection points
✓ Covers ICE, hybrid AND EV-specific checks (SoH, charging port, BMS recalls)
✓ NSW compliance & pink-slip considerations
✓ Test-drive script + go/no-go decision framework
✓ Print-ready — works on phone or paper

The checklist

1 · Pre-meeting (do before you arrive)

Confirm the rego plate matches the listing photos.
Run a PPSR check on the VIN ($2 — federal government).
Search the VIN at productsafety.gov.au/recalls.
Confirm the seller's name matches the rego papers.
Insist on a daytime inspection in dry weather.

2 · Identification & paperwork

VIN on dashboard matches VIN on engine bay plate and rego papers.
Compliance plate present and unaltered.
Service history — books, receipts, dealer stamps.
Logbook current; no large unexplained service gaps.
Roadworthy / pink slip status (NSW: required at sale if 5+ years old).
Outstanding finance disclosed.

3 · Exterior body

Panel gaps even on both sides (bonnet, doors, boot, tailgate).
Paint sheen consistent — check at multiple angles in sunlight.
Overspray on rubbers, glass, weather strips, or wheel arches.
Body filler — magnet test on steel panels.
Sagging or repaired front rails, radiator support, strut towers.
Glass: VIN etching matches; no chips in driver's line of sight.
Lights all functional including high beam, fog, indicators, reverse.

4 · Tyres, wheels & brakes

Tread depth ≥ 3 mm across full width.
Even wear pattern — uneven wear = alignment / suspension issue.
Date code (DOT) — tyres older than 6 years should be replaced.
Same brand and size across an axle.
Wheels straight; no kerb damage on alloys.
Brake disc lip < 1.5 mm; no deep scoring.
Brake pads ≥ 4 mm friction material.

5 · Underbody & suspension

No fresh oil or coolant residue on engine sump, gearbox, transfer case.
Exhaust solid; no rust holes; rubber hangers intact.
Sway-bar links / bushes not perished.
CV boots intact (no torn rubber, no grease spray).
No accident repair welds on chassis rails or sub-frames.
Tow-bar present? Inspect for heavy towing wear.

6 · Engine bay (ICE)

Engine oil: amber, on the dipstick markings, no milky emulsion under oil cap.
Coolant: correct colour for vehicle, clean reservoir.
Brake fluid: clear amber, at MAX line.
Power steering fluid (where fitted).
Battery terminals clean; battery date < 4 years.
Drive belts and hoses supple, no cracks.
Cold start — listen for tappet / chain rattle.
Idle steady; no smoke at start or under load.

7 · EV-specific (battery vehicles)

Display State of Health (SoH) figure or independent battery scan.
12 V auxiliary battery health (still critical on EVs).
Charging port: no melted pins, no excessive play.
Confirm both AC and DC charging on a real session.
Look up Hyundai/Kia/Polestar BMS recall status.
Range estimate at 80% SoC matches WLTP expectations.
Cooling system service done if vehicle uses liquid-cooled pack.

8 · Interior

Odometer matches service records and PPSR history.
Steering wheel & pedal wear consistent with km claimed.
Seat bolsters consistent with km claimed (especially driver's).
All electronics work: windows, mirrors, locks, climate, audio, screens.
Air-con blows ≤ 8°C at the centre vent within 2 minutes.
Seatbelts retract fully and lock under sharp pull.
All warning lights extinguish after ignition cycle.
Spare wheel / inflator kit present and functional.

9 · Test drive (20+ minutes, mixed conditions)

Cold start behaviour.
Gearbox: smooth up and down, no slip or flare.
Steering: tracks straight on a flat road, hands off briefly.
Brakes: pulls straight under firm braking from 80 km/h.
Suspension: no clunks over bumps; no excessive body roll.
Cruise at 100 km/h: no vibration, no engine surge.
Hill or load test: turbo / EV motor responds cleanly.
Park: re-check under-vehicle for leaks after the drive.

10 · Decision

Total estimated repairs in next 12 months.
Comparable listings to confirm the asking price is market-fair.
Negotiation position: walk-away price, fair offer, ideal offer.
Cooling-off period — none on private NSW sales. Be ready.
If anything serious: walk away, or book a professional pre-purchase inspection.

Want the human version?

We'll come to the seller's address anywhere in Greater Sydney, perform every check on this list, verify the VIN against PPSR & recall databases, and send you a written report on the same day.

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