For peace of mind before you buy a car, it pays to have an expert mechanic inspect it.
For a thorough check you know you can trust, book your car in for an RAC Vehicle Inspection. All our inspections are carried out at an RAC Auto Services centre or one of our mobile servicing vans*.
You’ll get a full report on the vehicle’s general condition and safety components**, plus a car history report, valued at $36.95, included for free (see below for more details).
The following checks are included:
- Engine – Oil level and condition, all fluid levels and condition, power steering, cooling system pressure test, drive belts and pulleys, mounts, noises, radiator and cap condition, road test (excludes EVs).
- Electric motors – Test drive and performance check of electric motor applicable to EVs.
- Under body – Exhaust system, drive line, steering components, suspension, fuel hoses (excludes EVs), wheel bearings, shock absorbers.
- Brakes – Brake pads and discs, hand brake, brake hoses.
- Tyres – Inspect all tyres including spare, rims and nuts.
- Battery and charging system – Electrolyte level, terminals and leads, charge rate, condition, type and size.
- Lighting – Exterior and interior lights.
- Interior components – Seatbelts, window operation, air conditioner operation.
| Vehicle Inspection pricing for petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard^ <10 years |
Standard^ 10 years to 25 |
Non Standard^^ <10 years |
Non Standard^^ 10 years to 25 |
|
| RAC Members | $259 | $295 | $330 | $394 |
| Non-members | $288 | $327 | $367 | $438 |
What is a car history report?
A car history report provides history on whether the used car you are buying has been written off, stolen, damaged or has money owing on it.
The following is included in the report:
- Finance check for money owing – PPSR certificate (previously REVS)
- Written off check
- Stolen check
- Flood/storm damage check
- Odometer wind back check
- Registration details
- ANCAP Safety & Emission Rating
Read our Vehicle Inspection terms and conditions
Our Auto Advice team are here to provide expert answers to all questions related to your vehicle or the automotive industry.
* Mobile Vehicle Inspection is only available to selected suburbs.
** Our main focus is safety, so we do not inspect body, paint or interior components other than those mentioned. We do not dismantle or disturb any structure, assembly, component or internal mechanism. MRB 935
^ Standard vehicles include sedans, hatchbacks, and most small SUVs. Please note vehicle inspections are unavailable on vehicles 25 years or older.
^^ Non Standard vehicles include 4WD and some European manufacturer models which take longer to inspect. Please note vehicle inspections are unavailable on vehicles 25 years or older
