Pre-purchase Inspection FAQ
Do you check the vehicle’s service history?
Yes. We take time to go through the service book (if present with the vehicle) and any service invoices to determine the vehicle’s service history. We also check for any major service items that are coming up.
Can the inspection be carried out at the seller’s home or work?
Yes. Our pre-purchase car inspections can be carried out almost anywhere. We can visit the seller’s home or work – most inspections are carried out in a driveway, a quiet road, or a car park.
Can the car be taken to your workshop?
Unfortunately, no. Green Bean Auto is a mobile service only.
What if further faults are found after I’ve purchased the vehicle?
All effort is made to locate and report on mechanical issues when carrying out a pre-purchase vehicle inspection. Green Bean Auto cannot be held accountable for any issues that arise following the inspection. For further details, please see our PPI T&Cs.
Do you provide a quote for any problems found?
We can do this, although it is not common practice. We’d be happy to give you a ballpark figure for the repairs upon request. Please note, our quotes do not reflect that of other mechanical workshops.
Can you carry out pre-purchase vehicle inspections on motorcycles?
Yes, we can. However, as we’re not accredited as motorcycle repairers, we will not be able to work on the motorcycle in any way. We also will not be in any position to road-test the vehicle. You may prefer to locate a motorcycle mechanic to inspect at first instance.
Can you carry out pre-purchase vehicle inspections on trailers and caravans?
Yes. We carry out many inspections on trailers and caravans. Within our inspections, we’ll check the main structure for rust and accident damage. We’ll also check the likes of the brakes, suspension, tyres/wheels, and tow ball/hitch. However, we will not inspect the cabin, electronics, or plumbing on any caravans or campers.
What if the vehicle is sold or I change my mind before the inspection takes place?
If the vehicle is sold or you change your mind before the inspection, you’ll receive a full refund within 24 hours of the booking cancellation.
Do I have to be present for the inspection?
Although we love to say g’day, there’s no requirement for you to be onsite for the inspection. Most inspections we carry out are in the absence of the prospective buyer. However, you are more than welcome to attend if you wish.
Does the seller need to be present for the inspection?
No. All inspections are carried out with the seller’s prior consent, and they are welcome to attend. We carry out many inspections in the absence of the seller who arranges to provide us with the keys.
What is a computerised diagnostic check?
A computerised diagnostic check is carried out with a specialised portable computer. The computer plugs into the cars onboard computer, which allows our mechanics to look at the vehicle’s files to see if it has any current or past electrical issues. Vehicles built before the year 2000 may not have this connection port.
The test areas typically include the engine, transmission, brake system, air conditioning, and more.
Does the inspection include a PPSR check?
Yes. Our inspections can include a PPSR check (personal property securities register) for an additional cost. You can also arrange a PPSR check yourself. Many third-party agencies can provide one for a small cost.
Either way, we recommend a PPSR. It will let you know if the car has been written off, stolen, has any water damage, or has finance owing on it (which you’ll be liable for after purchasing the car). A PPSR also provides the vehicle’s registration details.
Can you carry out a pre-purchase car inspection at an auction house, dealership or car yard?
Yes. We do this regularly. If you’re interested in a vehicle where there are multiple vehicles available, simply send us the lot number, ID or rego of the vehicle. We can also inspect multiple cars if you’re interested in more than one. Multiple inspections will incur an additional charge.
When do I pay for the pre-purchase vehicle inspection?
All inspections are to be paid in full when the booking is made. Don’t worry, you’ll receive a full refund if you change your mind or if the vehicle sells before the inspection takes place.
*Please note we require a 24hrs cancellation notice if you change your mind to receive a full refund.
What happens if the vehicle does not pass the inspection?
There is no ‘pass or fail’ included in our pre-purchase inspection reporting. Our condition reports are objective and will provide you with sufficient information to make an informed decision. It is your choice as the buyer to go ahead or pass up on the purchase.
Do I still have to pay for the inspection if I don’t go ahead with the vehicle purchase?
Yes. You will not get a refund on the inspection if you chose to not purchase the vehicle. This is because we have already carried out the inspection and provided you with a condition report. This means Green Bean Auto has provided you as the consumer with a complete service.
How often do we find issues with our pre-purchase vehicle inspections?
Most second-hand vehicles present with at least a couple of faults. These can be anything from mild oil leaks to catastrophic engine issues. The number and severity of faults will generally allow the buyer to negotiate a better price on the car or pass on the purchase.
What if there are issues found with the vehicle?
Our condition reports are highly objective, meaning we cannot advise you whether to purchase the car or not. We’ll present the facts in our reports and are happy to discuss a ballpark figure of how much repairs would cost. You will need to request a phone call for this level of follow-up. Please note, all workshops offer varied pricing for repair servicing and Green Bean Auto cannot be accountable for the quotes provided by other workshops.
In many cases, the fault/s are easily repairable and of no real concern. This allows you to negotiate a price reduction with the seller to offset the repair costs.
Is a pre-purchase vehicle inspection the same as a roadworthy certificate?
No. Although our inspections do take safety elements into account, they are not a state-issued roadworthy certificate.
Any vehicle currently registered in NSW has been approved for its safety inspection (pink slip). These are normally carried out by a workshop mechanic (onsite) just before a vehicle’s registration is due for renewal.
Are you insured?
Yes. We are a fully insured and licenced automotive service provider. Whilst the vehicle is undergoing inspection, our insurance policy covers our mechanics’ handling and test driving the vehicle.
“Had I bought that work van, the repair costs would’ve sunk into my new business”
*Feedback from a recent pre-purchase inspection customer
