The personal service we provide differs from other inspection companies by conducting day-to-day services on a smaller scale.
Scope
All of our inspections are derived from a detailed panel & bodywork analysis, and carefully planned by members of our team.
Coverage
We cover areas in both North And South of the river in Perth, covering most metropolitan suburbs. Contact us for more information on our coverage.
Pre Purchase Car Inspection Perth
Buying a used car is one of the biggest financial decisions most people make, and it rarely comes with guarantees. A private seller may not disclose every fault. A car dealership may present a vehicle in the best possible light. Without an independent assessment, hidden problems only reveal themselves after the purchase, leading to unexpected repairs and significant cost.
Spot On Vehicle Inspections provides professional pre purchase car inspection services across Greater Perth and wider Western Australia. For a fixed price of $360, our experienced mechanic comes directly to the vehicle at the seller’s home, a dealership, or any agreed site, and delivers a comprehensive report that gives you the information you need to make an informed decision. On a used car purchase of $20,000 or more, uncovering a single significant fault can save you far more than the cost of the inspection, and that is before you factor in the negotiating power a detailed report gives you. Call us today on 0407 193 506 to book your inspection.
Fixed price $360 Mobile service, we come to the vehicle Greater Perth and wider WA Comprehensive written report Qualified mechanic inspector Includes road test
Here’s what buyers say about their experience with Spot On Vehicle Inspections.
Posted on Google
Kim Vo
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Tom is very good at his job. He saved me from buying a "lemon". He gives you the nitty gritty of everything you would need to know. He also gave me good financial advice on whether the car was good for the price it was listed at.
Posted on Google
Megan Belcher
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Tom is the epitome of customer service, all around good human and fantastic mechanic. I cannot recommend this guy enough. Tells you down the line what is what in laments terms, keeps it honest and transparent and just wants a great outcome for his customers. He goes above and beyond. Top bloke! Thanks Tommy for your excellent customer service and advice!
Posted on Google
Jasmine violet Bacon
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Tom is a really cool and nice guy with a good customer service. Super easy to deal with and sort things out really fast. I Recommended using this company :) 10/10
Posted on Google
Lyra Walton-Tewes
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Super happy with the service provided! Was a hassle free way of getting a vehicle inspected before purchase without me having to be in Perth. Tom was thorough and gave me lots of good tips and advice for purchasing my intended car.
Posted on Google
Josh
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Tom was excellent to deal with — got back to me quickly, completed the inspection promptly and made the whole process hassle free. He was very thorough and provided great detail in his report. Highly recommend his services for anyone needing a pre-purchase inspection!
Thank you Tom!
Posted on Google
Michael Wright
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Even though Tom couldn't help with me with my age of car. He pointed me to someone who could help. Thanks heaps
Posted on Google
Tina G
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Just realised I didn’t review Tom when he inspected my car a couple of years back! I was very happy with his service, so much so I just dug through my emails to find his details so he can inspect our next potential purchase. Thanks Tom
Posted on Google
TrinityBlue (Trinity)
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Tom was extremely helpful in providing a pre purchase inspection for me, on 2 different occasions. Being based outside of Perth I needed someone as soon as possible, and he provided a great service at short notice and provided lots of details and information about the vehicles for me. He also helped me out with a better rate as a repeat customer and living remotely as a bonus! Thanks heaps Tom, definitely recommend.
Posted on Google
Cam Styles
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
If you need a pre-purchase inspection done, look no further than Tom. He was able to drive out remotely, fully inspect the car at very short notice and did a very thorough job. He was thorough, professional and is a clear expert at what he does. Not only that, he’s friendly, funny and easy to talk to. His prices are significantly lower than RAC as well. Top bloke, cheers Tom
Posted on Google
Chris Cunningham
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Working with Tom was awesome, fast and friendly service. I'm in NSW and was trying to purchase a car from large dealer in Perth, Tom was able to look at the car at short notice for me and identified a major issue with it, which the dealer hadn't disclosed, this saved me from buying a very expensive lemon! Although the hunt for a new car continues for me, Tom is at the top of list for any vehicle inspections around Perth! Highly recommended! Will certainly be using Toms service again.
Verified by Trustindex
Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
What’s Included in a Pre Purchase Car Inspection?
Our mechanical inspection is designed to leave nothing unchecked. Every vehicle inspection covers the following areas:
Engine Bay and Mechanical Systems
We assess the engine bay thoroughly, checking for leaks, corrosion, worn belts and hoses, and any signs of neglect or previous damage. The cooling system is pressure tested to check for leaks and inspect hose integrity. We check all fluid levels including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, noting condition as well as level.
Brakes, Suspension and Steering
We inspect brake pads and rotors for wear, test handbrake effectiveness, and check brake hoses for condition. Suspension components including shock absorbers, bushings, and ball joints are assessed for wear and integrity. Steering response and stability are evaluated during the road test.
Tyres, Wheels and Drivetrain
Tyres are checked for tread depth, uneven wear patterns (which can indicate alignment or suspension issues), age, and overall condition. Wheels are inspected for damage. The drivetrain, including differential, driveshafts, and transmission, is assessed for leaks and function.
Battery and Electrical Systems
The battery is tested along with the charging system. Interior electrics are checked including air conditioning, power windows, central locking, dashboard gauges, and all lights. Seat belts are tested for correct operation.
Exterior and Interior Condition
We carry out a detailed visual inspection of the exterior panels, looking for signs of rust, prior accident repairs, misaligned panels, and inconsistent gaps. Using a paint depth gauge, we can detect areas where panels have been repainted, something the naked eye simply cannot identify. Interior condition, trim, and general wear are assessed and documented.
OBD Diagnostic Scan
We connect a diagnostic scanner to the vehicle’s on-board computer to read current and historic fault codes. This step is critical for detecting hidden mechanical or electrical issues that may not be apparent during a visual check, including problems that contradict the seller’s claims or that a seller may have temporarily cleared before the sale.
Road Test
No pre purchase vehicle inspection is complete without a test drive. We conduct a thorough road test from a cold start, which is one of the most revealing stages of the inspection. Starting a car cold exposes issues that warm engines can mask: difficult starting, exhaust smoke, unusual noises, and performance irregularities. We test acceleration, braking, steering, and listen carefully for anything that warrants further attention.
PPSR History Check
We review available vehicle history information as part of the inspection process. A PPSR check reveals critical information about the car’s past, including whether it has outstanding finance owing, has been written off, or has been reported stolen. Buying a car with undisclosed finance means the lender can legally reclaim the vehicle, even from you as the new owner.
After every car inspection, you receive two things: an immediate verbal summary from your inspector on site, and a detailed seven-page written report delivered to you after the inspection is complete.
The written report documents the overall condition of the vehicle across all inspected areas, clearly identifies any issues found, and includes clear photos of items that require attention. It provides valuable insights into the car’s condition in plain language, so you know exactly what you are buying. The report is structured to be easy to read. You do not need mechanical knowledge to understand what it says or what it means for your purchase decision.
What the Report Contains
A seven-page written report covering all inspected areas, photos of items requiring attention, plain-language summaries of any issues found, and a clear picture of the vehicle’s overall condition. No mechanical knowledge required to read it.
Using the Report to Negotiate
If the report uncovers mechanical issues, worn tyres, a battery that needs replacing, or evidence of prior accident repairs the seller did not disclose, you have documented evidence to negotiate a better price or request that repairs be completed before settlement. In many cases, the cost of the inspection is recovered many times over through the negotiation leverage it provides.
To understand more about what our services cover, visit our services page.
Get your full written report delivered after every inspection. Fixed price $360.
The process is simple and designed to cause minimal disruption to your schedule or the seller’s.
1
Book Your Inspection
Call us on 0407 193 506 or submit your details online. Provide the vehicle details and the seller’s location, and we will confirm a suitable time. In most cases we can arrange an inspection within one to two business days. If your situation is time-sensitive, call us directly and we will do our best to accommodate you sooner.
2
We Come to the Vehicle
Our inspector travels directly to the vehicle, whether it is parked at a private seller’s home, a car dealership, or another site across Greater Perth. You do not need to move the car. We handle all logistics with the seller directly.
3
You Receive the Report
After the inspection, you receive an immediate verbal summary covering the key findings. The full written report with clear photos follows shortly after. If you have questions, your inspector is available to walk you through the findings in detail.
The full inspection typically takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes. You are welcome to attend, and we recommend being present for the verbal summary at the end, where your inspector can answer your questions directly and point out anything that needs your attention.
For more information on booking, visit our booking page.
Ready to book? We can usually arrange an inspection within one to two business days.
Spot On Vehicle Inspections operates as a fully mobile vehicle inspection service. We travel to the vehicle. You do not travel to us. This means the inspection happens wherever the car is located, at a time that works for everyone involved.
Areas we cover:
Perth CBD Fremantle Joondalup Mandurah Rockingham Swan Valley North of the river South of the river East to the foothills
Founded in 2015 by Tom, a professional mechanic with more than 25 years of experience working on and inspecting cars in Australia. That depth of knowledge informs every inspection we carry out.
Personal Service, Start to Finish
Our service operates on a deliberately personal scale. In most cases, the person you speak to when you call to book is the same inspector who attends the vehicle and prepares your report. No handoffs, no subcontractors, no disconnected call centres.
Professional-Grade Equipment
We use an OBD scanner for fault code detection and a paint depth gauge to identify panel repairs invisible to the naked eye. These are standard inclusions in every inspection, not optional extras, because they are the tools that uncover the hidden issues that matter most.
Fixed Price, No Hidden Costs
At $360, our fixed price pre purchase car inspection covers all of the above with no hidden costs. Used car buyers across Perth and Greater Western Australia trust us to give them an accurate, unbiased picture of a vehicle’s condition before they commit to a purchase.
To learn more about our team and approach, visit our about us page.
Experienced, personal, thorough. Book your inspection today.
How much does a pre purchase car inspection cost?+
Our pre purchase car inspection is a fixed price of $360. There are no hidden fees and no surprises. For some outlying areas, an additional travel fee may apply. Call us on 0407 193 506 to confirm before booking.
What does the inspection cover?+
Every inspection covers the engine bay, cooling system, fluid levels, brakes, suspension, steering, tyres, wheels, drivetrain, battery, electrical systems, seat belts, interior and exterior condition, and a paint depth check for prior repairs. We also carry out an OBD diagnostic scan and a thorough road test. A PPSR history check is reviewed as part of the process.
How long does a pre purchase inspection take?+
The on-site inspection typically takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the vehicle and the findings. The verbal summary follows immediately after, and the written report is delivered once the inspector has completed the documentation.
Can I attend the inspection?+
Yes, and we recommend it. Being present for the verbal summary at the end gives you the opportunity to ask questions, see any issues pointed out directly, and leave with a clear understanding of the vehicle’s condition before making your decision.
Do you inspect vehicles at car dealerships?+
Yes. We regularly inspect vehicles at car dealerships as well as at private seller locations across Greater Perth. Simply inform the seller or dealership that a third-party inspection has been arranged, and we handle the rest. The seller does not need to be present for the full inspection. They just need to provide access to the vehicle.
What is a PPSR check and why does it matter?+
A PPSR (Personal Property Securities Register) check reveals whether a vehicle has outstanding finance owing, has been written off, or has been reported stolen. If you purchase a car with undisclosed finance, the lender can legally reclaim the vehicle from you as the new owner. This check is a critical part of protecting your purchase and is reviewed as part of every Spot On inspection.
Still have a question? Call us and we’ll answer it.
Fixed price of $360. Mobile service across Greater Perth. A detailed report you can use to negotiate, make an informed decision, or simply buy with confidence.
Do not hand over your money on a used car without knowing what you are buying. Call us today on 0407 193 506 or visit our contact page to book your inspection. We are available Monday to Friday, can often accommodate bookings within one to two business days, and will work around your schedule and the seller’s availability from start to finish.
Nice dealing with you yesterday. Thank you for the report and for the excellent service provided!
Regards,
- Deep ,
I have now used Spot On’s car pre purchase inspection service twice, and on both occasions have found it to be exemplary. From the initial contact with you I felt confident that you were the person to help us find the right car. I was impressed by your enthusiasm and professionalism, the initial verbal report immediately after the inspection was extremely comprehensive, as was the follow up written report with pictures. All in all a great package at what I consider to be a great price. Thanks Tom, you are a credit to your industry and I would have absolutely no qualms in recommending you to any future potential customer.
All the best,
- Iain ,
Kallaroo
Tom from Spot On Vehicle Inspections did a fantastic job with the inspection of my recently purchased Mazda 6. There are always risks associated with buying a second hand car, but my mind was put at ease after having Tom inspect the car and provide me with his comprehensive report. Tom used all the latest technology, was extremely friendly and very easy to deal with. Some of the gadgets he used were particularly interesting – my favourite had to be the tool that could instantly tell if the paintwork on each panel was original or if it had been replaced/repainted. These types of issues just can’t be identified by the naked eye or by an unsuspecting buyer, and so I am extremely glad I went through the exercise of having the car professionally inspected by Tom.
I have not had any problems since buying my Mazda and would not hesitate to recommend his services to anybody looking at buying a car. Thanks again Tom!”
- John Rowbottam ,
Kingsley
Hi Tom,
I wanted to express my sincerest thanks for your excellent work in helping me to find a reliable, mechanically sound car.
You were exceptionally diligent with communication and you provided excellent service with distinct authenticity which was well and truly noted and appreciated. Thanks for bending over backwards to accommodate any difficulties.
Despite it being cliché, I will certainly be putting your name forward to any of my friends looking buying a car, especially from Gumtree where there is so much of a gamble!
