how to get vehicle inspection report

Want a vehicle inspection report without playing detective under a flickering fluorescent light? In Australia, book an independent pre-purchase inspection with a licensed mechanic (mobile or workshop) and you’ll get a written report on body, mechanicals, electrics, and a proper road test.

Ask for photos, scan results, and any measurements (compression or leak-down where relevant), and expect to pay around AUD 200–400 for most cars, more for prestige or 4x4s.

Separate to that, grab a PPSR certificate to check finance owing, write-off and stolen status; state roadworthy/safety certificates are different and nowhere near as thorough.

Make sure the VIN on the report matches the car, keep the invoice, and use any findings to negotiate or walk—sometimes “no deal” is the cheapest repair.

If the seller already has a recent report, verify the provider’s details and that it wasn’t done by Aunt Cheryl with a torch and optimism.