What to Check Before Buying a Used Car in Victoria: A Mechanic’s Checklist

Buying a used car in Victoria can be a smart financial decision, but it’s not without risk—especially when purchasing from a private seller.

With the second-hand car market booming, many buyers are exploring options beyond dealerships. But without the right checks in place, what seems like a bargain could end up costing far more in repairs and stress. This guide offers a practical used car checklist Victorian buyers can rely on to avoid common pitfalls.

While a vehicle history report is essential to confirm past ownership, odometer readings, and possible write-offs, it only tells part of the story. Physical and mechanical inspections provide crucial insights that paperwork can’t.

Here’s what to look for before making your decision.

Exterior Inspection

Start with a visual assessment of the vehicle’s exterior. Check for:

• Paint and Bodywork: Look for inconsistencies in colour, texture, and finish—these could indicate past damage, body filler repairs, or panel respraying. Panels that don’t align properly may point to accident damage.
  
• Rust and Dents: Surface rust can sometimes be a sign of deeper structural issues. Pay close attention to wheel wells, door sills, windscreen edges, and undercarriage areas—especially in coastal areas like Frankston, where salt exposure can accelerate corrosion.
  
• Tyres: Uneven tread wear may point to alignment issues or suspension problems. Check for cracks in sidewalls and ensure there’s at least 1.6mm of tread depth across the width of the tyre, in line with VicRoads’ legal minimums.
  

Tip: Walk around the vehicle during daylight hours when flaws are easiest to spot, and run your hand along the panels for hidden dents.

Under the Bonnet

Pop the hood and inspect the engine bay thoroughly:

• Oil Level and Colour: Dirty or low oil can suggest poor maintenance. Fresh oil is golden brown—sludge or black oil is a red flag.
  
• Leaks: Examine the engine block and surrounding components for signs of oil, coolant, or brake fluid leaks. Use a torch for hard-to-see areas.
  
• Belts and Hoses: These should be firm, free from frays or cracks, and not overly shiny (which can indicate age).
  
• Battery Condition: Look for swelling, corrosion on terminals, and check the date sticker if visible—most batteries last 3–5 years.
  

Interior Checks

Once inside, take time to evaluate comfort and condition:

• Upholstery and Trim: Excessive wear, burns, or mismatched trim can indicate heavy use or repair work. Lift floor mats to check for water damage.
  
• Dashboard Warning Lights: All warning lights should briefly illuminate at startup and then turn off. Persistent lights could signal serious issues.
  
• Electronics: Test every function—windows, locks, mirrors, infotainment system, USB ports, and lights.
  
• Air Conditioning: Make sure it blows cold and responds to temperature adjustments. A failing A/C system can be costly to fix, especially before a long drive—learn how to spot issues in this summer car A/C guide.
  

Bonus Tip: Sniff for mould or mildew—this could indicate prior flooding or leaks.

Mechanical Test

Even if the car looks great, the mechanical side tells the real story:

• Apply the Brakes: Brakes should feel responsive with no squealing, grinding, or pulling to one side.
  
• Steering Response: Should feel tight and predictable. Jerky movement, odd noises, or excessive play are warning signs.
  
• Suspension Check: Push down on each corner of the car—if it bounces more than once, the shock absorbers may be worn.
  
• Engine Noise: Listen for knocks, rattles, or tapping at idle. It should sound smooth and steady.
  
• Exhaust Smoke: A little white condensation is fine. Blue smoke signals oil burning; black smoke means too much fuel.
  

Test Drive Tips

A test drive can reveal hidden faults you can’t see while stationary:

• Urban Driving: Check how the car handles stop-start traffic. Are the gear shifts smooth? Does it idle cleanly at traffic lights?
  
• Highway Conditions: At speed, watch for vibrations, wind noise, or pulling—these could signal balance or alignment issues.
  
• Braking and Cornering: Try a few hard stops and tight turns to feel how the vehicle reacts. Any odd smells or noises during braking could suggest worn pads or rotors.
  

Need help identifying what to listen and feel for? Read our guide on how to inspect a used car like a pro.

What Documents Should You Request?

Before finalising your decision, ask the seller for the following:

• Roadworthy Certificate (RWC): Required for transfer of ownership in Victoria.
  
• Service History: Look for regular servicing from reputable mechanics or dealers.
  
• Owner’s Manual & Logbook: Confirm features, warranty status, and maintenance schedules.
  
• Registration Status: Ensure it’s current and not about to expire. You can verify rego through the VicRoads registration check tool.
  

If any of these are missing, consider it a red flag—or factor replacement costs into your offer.

When to Involve a Mechanic

Even if you’re confident in your own inspection, a qualified mechanic can spot things you might miss. A pre-purchase inspection is an affordable investment that could save you thousands—especially when buying privately.

Frankston Ford offers expert servicing and a carefully curated selection of certified used vehicles. Backed by warranties and thorough inspections, these options provide long-term peace of mind—especially if you’re not sure where to begin. See the top reasons why buying a used Ford is a smart investment for more details.

Bonus: Should You Buy Privately or from a Dealer?

Private sellers can offer cheaper prices, but they also come with greater risk. Buying from a trusted franchise dealership offers better protection, service history assurance, and statutory warranties—especially important for newer drivers or those unfamiliar with cars. Learn more in our post on why buying from a franchise dealer is safer than private sales.

Final Thoughts

Understanding what to check when buying a used car in Australia helps you avoid costly mistakes, hidden faults, and unexpected expenses. Use this comprehensive second-hand car inspection checklist to guide your evaluation—or take the stress out of the process by visiting Frankston Ford.Need help or have questions? Book a trusted inspection or explore our certified used cars online or in person at Frankston Ford. We’re here to help you drive away with confidence.