At South West Rocks Automotive, we believe the best time to find a fault is before you pay for it. Our Pre-Purchase Inspections provide a comprehensive, non-invasive visual assessment of a vehicle’s mechanical health, safety features, and overall condition. Designed to give you a clear, unbiased "second opinion," our reports help you identify hidden issues—from engine wear to structural concerns—that a standard test drive might miss. Whether you're buying privately or from a dealer, our goal is to ensure you have the expert data you need to negotiate with confidence and avoid the "lemon" in the lot.
Pre-purchase Inspections
1. Buyer's Responsibilities and Liability Acknowledgment
- Reliance on Report: The Buyer acknowledges the inspection is a pre-purchase visual, non-invasive assessment of the vehicle's accessible components at the time of inspection only. It is not a structural tear-down, nor does it involve the removal of seals, trim, or internal engine components. It is not a guarantee of future reliability or an exhaustive check for latent defects (e.g., intermittent electrical faults or internal engine wear).
- Final Decision: The Buyer retains full and final responsibility for the purchase. This report is an advisory tool and does not constitute a recommendation to buy or not buy the vehicle.
- PPSR and Legal Checks: The Buyer is responsible for independent verification of the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) to check for encumbrances (finance), written-off status, or stolen vehicle records. The Mechanic does not verify odometer accuracy against service history unless explicitly stated.
- Maximum Liability: To the extent permitted by the NSW Fair Trading Act and Australian Consumer Law, the Mechanic’s liability for any error or omission is limited to:
- The re-supply of the inspection service; or
- The payment of the cost of having the services supplied again (strictly capped at the fee paid).
2. Owner's Responsibilities and Liability Acknowledgment
- Vehicle Access and Condition: The Owner must ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat, hard surface, in a safe environment, and contains sufficient fuel/fluids for a test drive.
- Disclosure of Known Faults: The Owner must disclose any known major mechanical defects, prior accident history (including "repairable write-offs"), or modifications that may void insurance or safety certificates.
- Condition During Inspection: The Owner grants permission for the Mechanic to operate the vehicle. The Mechanic is not liable for mechanical failure that occurs during the normal course of a test drive (e.g., a pre-existing worn belt snapping) or minor cosmetic impressions from standard jacking points.
- Warranties: This inspection is a private assessment. It does not provide, replace, or satisfy any Statutory Warranty requirements that may apply if the vehicle is being sold by a licensed motor dealer under the Property and Stock Agents Act.
3. Mutual Liability and Consumer Guarantees
- Indemnification: Both the Buyer and Owner agree to indemnify South West Rocks Automotive against all claims, losses, or costs arising from the subsequent operation of the vehicle.
- Australian Consumer Law (ACL): Nothing in this agreement excludes, restricts, or modifies any consumer guarantee, right, or remedy conferred by the ACL. However, the Mechanic is not liable for consequential losses (e.g., towing costs, loss of wages, or repair bills) resulting from defects not identified in a visual-only inspection.