Pre-Purchase Inspection With RAC

Buying a car is one of the most exciting purchases you can make. However, for the large percentage of people that buy second-hand, there can be a lot of doubt and stress when it comes to analysing the condition of the car you’re buying.

For peace of mind and a professional opinion, this is where a pre-purchase car inspection comes in handy.

The majority of mechanical businesses offer pre-purchase inspections and depending on the level of service and the type of vehicle, costs can vary between $250 to $450.

Whilst this may be considered a steep price to fork out for a car you might not even buy, a pre-purchase car inspection gives you the comfort of knowing you are making a wise and gainful decision and for this alone, it pays to have an expert complete the assessment.

RAC Pre-purchase Car Inspection

RAC has been servicing Western Australia for over 115 years and they cover the largest geographical area of any automotive club in the world.

RAC offers pre-purchase inspections to members and non-members and inspections take place exclusively at one of their RAC Auto Services centres or one of their mobile servicing vans.

This allows for the vehicle to be raised on a hoist and a thorough review to take place.

In addition to the pre-purchase inspection, RAC will provide a free car history report (valued at $36.95) which will include a comprehensive history check on whether the vehicle has ever been written off, stolen, damaged, has money owing on it or has had the odometer wound back.

How much does a car inspection cost from RAC?

Standard < 10 years 

RAC Members - $259 | Non-members - $288

Standard vehicles Include sedans, hatchbacks, and most small SUVs.

Standard 10 - 25 years*

RAC Members - $295 | Non-members - $327

*Vehicles 25 years or older, inspections are unavailable from RAC

Non Standard < 10 years 

RAC Members - $330 | Non-members - $367

Non Standard vehicles Include 4WD and some European manufacturer models.

Non Standard 10 - 25 years*

RAC Members - $394 | Non-members - $438

*Vehicles 25 years or older, inspections are unavailable from RAC

What’s included in a car inspection from RAC? 

Brakes: hand brakes, discs, brake pads, and brake hoses

Under body: steering, suspension, exhaust, fuel hoses, wheel bearings, shock absorbers, and driveline components

Tyres: inspecting all tyres including spare, rims, and nuts

Engine: engine oil level/conditions, cooling system, drive belts, power steering, noises, radiator, and cap condition 

Lighting: exterior and interior

Electrical system: battery and charging systems, electrolyte level, terminals, and leads

Interior components: seatbelts, windows, and air conditioner

During a pre-purchase inspection RAC will not dismantle or disturb any of the structure, components, internal mechanism or assembly.

Their main focus is safety and therefore they do not inspect body, paint or panel components, nor any additional interior components.

If you're after a pre-purchase car inspection, AutoGuru can help you find an awesome, local and high-quality mechanic to book with. 

We've got an easy online booking platform, transparent prices and Afterpay! 

What're you waiting for? Book in now! 

All data gathered in July 2023.