Pre Purchase Inspection With RAA

When considering a second-hand car purchase, there can often be a lot of doubt and anxiety regarding the state of the vehicle, especially if you are not mechanically inclined.

To avoid the stress often associated with car purchases, it’s vital to understand the car's actual condition and having a pre-purchase inspection is a fool-proof way to achieve this. 

A pre-purchase inspection can vary anywhere between $200 to $450 depending on the vehicle size, age and the level of inspection.

Many mechanical businesses offer pre-purchase inspections as part of their services, so there are a great deal of options for the everyday consumer.

Pre-purchase car inspection with RAA

Established in 1903, RAA has a long history of servicing the South Australian motorist community.

And as advocates for vehicle safety, RAA has a team of qualified professionals ready to help you make informed decisions about your vehicle.

RAA’s pre-purchase inspections are offered to all South Australian motorists, with RAA members receiving a 15% discount. A pre-purchase car inspection with RAA can be booked via telephone or online through their website.

What options are available with RAA?

Mechanical Inspection

Members' price from $283
RAA’s mechanical inspection is a less comprehensive inspection than the Total Care inspection. Ideal for buyers who are looking to discover any mechanical issues.

This inspection Includes:

• Cool system: pressure testing, oil leaks and levels
• Engine condition: abnormal noises, oil levels & leaks, electronic cylinder performance, mounting and stabiliser bar condition
• Electrical system: lighting/trafficators, windscreen wipers/washers, window demisters, warning device, starter motor, battery condition, charging system, warning lights & gauges, speedometer, and engine tune performance/analysis
• Transmission: oil leaks, abnormal wear, operational during a road test
• Wheels & tyres: check for any damage
• Braking system: check cables/pivots, brake lines, brake disc/drums & lining/pads, wheel cylinders and callipers
• Suspension/steering: suspension joints & pivots, shock absorbers, power steering, abnormal movement and noises in wheel bearings
• Chassis: check for damage and rust

Total Care Inspection

Members’ price from $308
The Total Care Inspection is the most comprehensive pre-purchase inspection that RAA offers and additionally includes an over-the-phone consultation with an RAA technical advisor.

This inspection includes everything that the Mechanical Inspection offers however with the bonus of:

• Operation of locks, latches & accessories
• Check current/previous poor body/paint damage/repairs
• Inspection of seat mountings and seat belt condition
• Check the condition of window glass and mirrors
• Check if the car has been written off, stolen or is under finance
• Phone consultation with RAA technical advisor

RAA offers pre-purchase inspections from Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm, and Saturday 9:00am to 12:00pm.

If you would prefer to go with another option, you can use AutoGuru to compare a range of high-quality local mechanics and book your pre-purchase inspection entirely online. 

You're just a few clicks away from instant quotes, transparent prices and no surprises! 

All data gathered in July 2023.