Vehicle inspections

Even if you’re pretty good with cars, it can be hard to know what you’re really getting when buying a used vehicle. That’s why the NRMA offers detailed vehicle inspections to take guesswork out of the equation. It’s a series of thorough checks conducted by a qualified NRMA mechanic, with same-day reporting on the condition and history of the vehicle, along with any recommended repairs.

Get the full story so you can buy a used car with confidence

Qualified mechanics

Our highly skilled mechanics provide vehicle inspections across NSW and ACT.

Peace of mind

Be armed with all the info you need to make an informed decision on your next vehicle purchase.

Comprehensive reports

Detailed reports that include road tests, high quality photos and a CarHistory report.

Value

If you're an NRMA Member you save 10% on vehicle inspections and 15% off any identified repairs.

Book inspection

How an NRMA vehicle inspection works

Make a booking online for your vehicle or one you're buying.
An inspector will contact the vehicle owner to organise an inspection time.
A qualified mechanic will visit the vehicle owner and conduct the inspection.
Once complete, you'll receive detailed report of the vehicle, high quality photos and a free CarHistory report, all on the same day.
On top of this, our mechanic will go through everything with you to make sure it's all clear.

Book inspection

Frequently asked questions

Where can I have the vehicle inspected?

Across Sydney, Canberra, Newcastle and Wollongong, we can come to you or even organise an inspection with the seller on your behalf. Or, you can visit any of our 23 NRMA car servicing centres across NSW and ACT.

What items are checked during the inspection?

Below is a list of items which are checked during the vehicle inspection.

Note: Brakes, where no dismantling is required.

Interior	Tyres, wheels, brakes	Road test
Seat belts	Tyres	Engine performance
Seat mounts/runners	Wheels	Engine noises
Seat and other trim	Spare tyre	Exhaust smoke
Door/child locks, hinges	Master cylinder	Transmission
Window operation	Calipers	Differential
Horn	Brake booster	4WD/AWD/SUV/MPV
Dash/warning lights	Brake hoses and pipes	Steering and suspension
Gauges	Hand brake	Brake operation
Washers and wipers		Cruise control
Heat demister
Radio controls
All lights
Rear window demister
Air conditioner

Engine compartment	Under body	Exterior
Fumes/smoke	Frames and members	Rust
Noises	Under floor panels	Body repairs
Fluid levels/condition	Fuel tank/hoses	Glass and mirrors
Fluid/oil leaks	Exhaust system	Bonnet and boot
Mountings	Automatic/manual clutch	Struts/locks
Emission controls	Components	Sun roof/convertible
Drive belts, pulleys	Differential	Paint
Battery, charging	Drive shafts/CV joints	Exterior trim
System	Universal joints	Upper body panels
Radiator and cap	Front suspension	Other body panels
Hoses and pipes	Steering components	Boot interiors
Water pump/cooling	Shock absorbers/struts
Fan	Rear suspension
Ignition system	Hand brake components
Fuel system	Wheel bearings

How much does an inspection cost?

Depending on the type of vehicle and inspection, for instance a specialist vehicle requires more components to be checked compared to a standard vehicle. Please see pricing below.

Product type	Vehicle type	Members	Non-Members
Pre-purchase or end of warranty	Standard/ 4WD/ AWD/ Van	$270	$300
	Specialist vehicles and over 10 years	$360	$400
Re-inspection^		$117	$130