Independent Vehicle Inspections is a Sydney wide, Wollongong & greater Illawarra pre-purchase vehicle service that provides a comprehensive vehicle inspection report to anyone considering buying a motor vehicle.
info@ivi.net.au
1300 857 484
Buying a used car is one of the biggest financial decisions most of us make outside of property. And yet, far too many buyers make that call based on a test drive and a visual once-over. At Independent Vehicle Inspections, we think you deserve a lot more than that before you hand over your money.
Our comprehensive pre-purchase inspection covers every major system in the vehicle — from the engine bay to the underbody, from the computer system to the cabin. Here's exactly what our experienced mechanics look at, and why each check matters.
The engine is the heart of any vehicle, and it's where problems can be the most expensive to fix. Our mechanics carry out a thorough examination of the engine, including a head gasket test to detect any internal leaks or combustion issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. We also check for oil leaks and signs of excessive engine wear that could indicate poor maintenance history or underlying mechanical problems.
An overheating engine can cause catastrophic damage in a very short time. We pressure-test the cooling system to detect leaks that might not be obvious under normal conditions, and inspect the hoses, water pump, and radiator for wear or deterioration. We also check that the cooling fan is operating correctly — a small component that plays a big role in keeping the engine at the right temperature.
A faulty ignition system can cause rough running, poor fuel economy, and eventual breakdowns. Our inspection covers the wiring and connections throughout the ignition system, and we check for any engine misfire — both at idle and under load — that could point to spark plug, coil, or sensor issues.
Whether the vehicle runs on petrol or diesel, we assess the condition and operation of the fuel system. This includes checking the fuel pump, fuel injection components, and the condition of all fuel hoses. Problems here can range from minor inefficiencies to serious safety concerns, so it's an area we take seriously.
Worn tyres or compromised brakes are not just an inconvenience — they're a safety risk. We inspect the condition and roadworthiness of all four tyres and wheels, checking for uneven wear that can indicate alignment or suspension issues. The entire braking system is also assessed, including brake pad depth, disc condition, and brake line integrity.
The underbody of a car tells a story that the showroom shine often doesn't. Our mechanics get underneath the vehicle to check for wear in the steering and suspension components, inspect the exhaust system for damage or leaks, and assess the condition of the transmission and subframe or chassis. Rust or structural damage in these areas can be very costly — and very dangerous — if missed.
Modern cars rely heavily on their electrical systems, and faults here can be notoriously difficult and expensive to diagnose after purchase. We inspect wiring and connections throughout the vehicle, test the alternator to ensure it's charging correctly, assess the condition of the battery, and evaluate the starter motor function. Any issues flagged here are clearly noted in your report.
Every modern vehicle has an onboard computer that logs fault codes — even when no warning light is showing on the dashboard. We perform a full engine management scan using professional diagnostic equipment, checking for any stored fault codes across the vehicle's systems. This is a step that a private buyer simply cannot do without specialist tools, and it regularly uncovers issues that would otherwise go unnoticed.
If the vehicle you're looking at is a hybrid, we've got you covered. We comprehensively inspect the hybrid drive system, including the high-voltage battery pack and associated components. Given the cost of hybrid battery replacement, this check alone can save buyers tens of thousands of dollars.
Beyond the mechanical, we carry out a thorough assessment of the vehicle's interior and exterior condition. Inside, we check the operation of seat belts, instruments, climate control, and all interior features. Outside, we look for signs of rust, previous paint repairs, panel replacements, and any indicators of past accident damage — evidence that may not be obvious without a trained eye and the right knowledge of what to look for.
Every inspection includes a proper on-road test. On the road, issues with engine performance, transmission behaviour, steering, suspension, and brakes become much more apparent. We test the vehicle the same way you'd drive it every day, paying close attention to how it pulls, shifts, handles, and stops.
At the end of every inspection, we give you something most reports don't: a definitive YES or NO recommendation on whether you should proceed with the purchase. Not a list of ambiguous findings to interpret on your own. Not a grey area. A straight answer, backed by over 35 years of automotive experience, based on whether we would buy this vehicle for ourselves or a family member.
You receive a verbal report on-site immediately after the inspection, and a full written report delivered to your email the same day.
Every inspection also comes with a free vehicle history check, giving you additional peace of mind around the vehicle's title, written-off status, and registration history.
And if you're a P-plate driver or a senior, you'll automatically receive a 10% discount on your inspection — because these are often the buyers who need reliable information the most.
We provide mobile pre-purchase inspections across Sydney, Wollongong, Shellharbour, and Nowra — we come to wherever the car is. Our call centre is open seven days a week, from 6am to 10pm.
Call us on 1300 857 484
Don't buy blind. Know what you're getting before you sign anything.
