Pre-Purchase Inspections

When you’re looking to purchase a used Mercedes, Pre-Purchase inspections are crucial.

You need to know whether there is overdue maintenance, engine issues or problems developing that may leave you stranded.

Every day, we are helping our customers make smart buying decisions, with our comprehensive Pre-Purchase Inspections

The Benefits of Pre-Purchase Inspections

We can give you a clear picture of the vehicle’s overall condition and point out any specific issues that will need to be addressed. The two most obvious benefits to you are:

We can protect you from purchasing a misrepresented vehicle with hidden problems and/or requiring expensive repairs.
We provide you with knowledge that will help you negotiate a sensible price with the seller.

What's involved?

On average, our road test, detailed inspection, diagnostic scan and vehicle report will take about three hours.

During this time, we will also discuss with you our findings or answer any questions you may have.

The standard Pre-Purchase Inspection costs $360.

What gets checked in the Pre-Purchase Inspections?

We’ve developed an extensive checklist and inspection routine that covers the following concerns for a potential buyer:

Road test: Engine power, transmission performance, vibrations, handling, unusual noises
Diagnostic Scan using Mercedes Xentry Diagnostics
Check for metal particles in the engine oil filter
Transmission and Axle Fluid Condition
Steering and Suspension
Lights and Windscreen Washers
Air Conditioning and Heating
Fluid Leaks and Condition
Brakes and Tyres
Underbody check of chassis, exhaust and driveline
Check of filters and for evidence of a good service history
Under bonnet check of Engine Hoses, Belts and Systems
Check of items that may fail a Roadworthy

What problems do we usually find?

The condition of the Mercedes Sprinters, Vitos, Cars and SUV’s that we see varies greatly. Have a read through our Common Problems page to see some of the regular maintenance items.

The key thing to remember here is that no used vehicle is in perfect condition.

However, we’re realists and the unique value we offer, is our ability to advise you on what is serious and what is normal.

We can advise you on what repairs or discounts you should negotiate with the seller of the vehicle. We can help you decide on what repairs need to be completed in the short term and what can be postponed.

What arrangements do I need to make with the seller?

Our Pre-Purchase Inspections are carried out at either our Hallam or Sunshine West workshops. You need to kindly ask the seller of the vehicle if either yourself or the seller can drive the vehicle to us for the inspection.

Our inspections typically take three hours, but you can also leave the vehicle with us for the day if that is convenient for you.

Make sure that the vehicle is insured before you drive it and that the suitable registration permit is purchased from VicRoads if the vehicle is unregistered.

Call us if you have any questions or need some advice. We’re happy to help!

What if the vehicle is Unregistered?

Sometimes a vehicle that you are looking to buy will be unregistered.

If so, you need to purchase an Unregistered Vehicle Permit from the Vicroads website. These permits can last for up to 28 days. We can help you with this if you need, just contact us.

Also make sure that the vehicle is insured before you drive it.

Call us if you have any questions or need some advice. We’re happy to help!

Contact us today via phone or by using our easy booking enquiry form below. We’re always happy to answer any questions about purchasing your next Mercedes van!