Vehicle Inspections
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Cheaper for members -
Mobile or workshop inspections available -
Qualified, independent technicians -
Choose from specialist inspection types
RAA is South Australia’s trusted inspection specialist
Whether you’re buying a used car, have a warranty that’s expiring, or you require an inspection for a taxi or Uber, an RAA vehicle inspection is the way to go.
Experienced mechanics can inspect your car at our Mile End workshop or at an Approved Vehicle Inspection Centre in regional SA. For many of our pre-purchase inspections, we can even come to you.
What type of inspection do you need?
Pre-purchase inspections
Buying a used or new car? Get one of our inspectors to take a detailed look at the vehicle's condition. A pre-purchase inspection could save you from surprises or help you get a better deal.
From $295 for RAA members
From $349 for non-members
Taxi and rideshare inspections
If you're driving a taxi, Uber or DiDi, you must get your car inspected regularly. We are authorised to offer inspections, recheck inspections and defect removals.
From $115 for RAA members
$129 for non-members
Vehicle inspections for businesses
Did you know that we offer roadworthy inspections for fleet vehicles and car dealerships?
Our fleet vehicle inspections are trusted by government and some of South Australia's most loved businesses.
Dealership inspections can show customers that you're confident in the cars you are selling.
End of warranty inspection
Eligible second-hand vehicles
To be covered under the South Australia Second-hand Vehicle Dealers Act 1995, a vehicle normally needs to:
- be less than 15 years old
- have fewer than 200,000km on the odometer
The warranty gives protection for:
- 2 months or 3,000km (whichever comes first) if the vehicle cost $3,001 – $6,000.
- 3 months or 5,000km (whichever comes first) if the vehicle cost over $6,000.
Other inspections
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Vehicle condition report
Planning a trip around Australia? Preparing for a quick sale? A 'vehicle condition report' can give you the confidence that your car can still get you from A to Z. After this inspection, we provide you with a detailed report into:
- engine condition
- cooling system
- fuel and exhaust systems
- electrical systems
- transmission
- wheels and tyres
- brakes
- suspension
- body
$289 for RAA members.
$329 for non-members. Additional fees may apply for old and rare vehicles. -
NSW and NT roadworthy and safety checks
Is your NSW or NT registered vehicle due for re-registration? RAA is the only organisation in SA who can complete the compulsory roadworthy check. Bookings for these inspections must be made under the address where the vehicle is registered.
We're authorised to inspect:
- vehicles of up to 12 seats
- commercial vehicles of up to two tonnes
- trailers
- bikes
- caravans
These inspections can be completed at our Mile End workshop in Adelaide or at an RAA Approved Vehicle Inspection Centre in regional SA.
$129 for RAA members, $145 for non-members
Safety check re-inspection
If faults are found during the first inspection, you'll need to book a reinspection so that the vehicle can be passed.
$29 admin fee for RAA members, $35 for non members
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Headlight aim check
It's important to aim your headlights correctly. This improves your safety and the safety of other road users. When your headlights are aimed correctly, they should illuminate road signs and avoid getting in the eyes of other drivers.
All headlight aim checks take place at our Mile End workshop. The checks do not include bulb replacement.
This service is free for RAA members
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Speedometer accuracy check
Get the accuracy of your speedometer checked at our Mile End workshop.
Speedometer checks are also available for special vehicles like VW Beetles, Kombis and station wagons. Vehicles that have 4WD/AWD permanently engaged can be tested if they have a towbar with a tongue attached.
Chat with one of our technical advisor for more information on 8202 4688.
2WD speedometer accuracy checks cost $175 for RAA members and $189 for non membersSpecial and 4WD vehicle checks cost $335 for RAA members and $369 for non members
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Vehicle diagnostics
Do you have an issue with your car that's causing concern? Our inspection team can help find the cause.
You'll have an opportunity to explain the issue to your RAA technical advisor on the phone before your appointment. After the inspection, you'll get a written report. All diagnostics inspections take place at our Mile End workshop.
One hour from $175 for RAA members, $189 for non members
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Recheck inspection
At this inspection, we check that faults identified at a previous inspection have been fixed. These inspections take place at our Mile End workshop.
From $119 for RAA members, $129 for non members
How do we rate an inspected vehicle?
Vehicle inspection reports follow a traffic light guide to help you understand the vehicle’s condition.
The traffic light guide shows the car’s condition at the time of inspection. It doesn’t take age, distance on the odometer, or warranty into account.
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Stop
If you're planning to own the vehicle long term, you should consider the repair cost and/or the future safety and reliability of the vehicle. This vehicle may still be suitable for restoration.
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Caution
As long as the reported issues are repaired, and you regularly service the vehicle, the vehicle should provide reliable service.
Purchasing privately or without a South Australia ‘Dealer Statutory Warranty’? Consider asking for a lower price to help cover the repair costs.
Buying from a dealership? Talk to the dealer about paying to repair any roadworthy defects before you buy the car. -
Go
Any issues found should only need normal maintenance or minor repairs.
Frequently asked questions
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Where can I get my vehicle inspected?
We offer mobile inspections across Adelaide and on-site inspections at our Mile End workshop.
Mobile inspections
Many of our car inspections can take place at a location of your choice in the Adelaide metro region. Inspectors need a location that is flat, not on a public roadway, and has room to use a trolley jack.
If the inspector arrives and determines that the provided location is not safe, you may forfeit your inspection fee.
RAA workshop inspections (Mile End)
Some inspections are more complex and need to be done at the our workshop in Mile End. This is often because we need to use a hoist to complete the inspection. This may include:
- some older cars
- some rare models
- certain inspection types (like taxi and rideshare inspections)
You can use our online quote and booking tool to determine whether your car is eligible for a mobile inspection.
Regional SA
If you live in the country, you can book an inspection at an RAA Approved Vehicle Inspection Centre. They can offer the following popular inspections:
- pre-purchase mechanical inspections
- owner mechanical inspections
- used-car warranty mechanical inspections
- NSW & NT roadworthy inspections
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How can I get a vehicle inspected in regional SA?
You can organise an inspection at an RAA Approved Vehicle Inspection Centre (AVIC). These are trusted local businesses who we've approved to work on our behalf.
An AVIC can offer these inspections:
- pre-purchase mechanical inspections
- owner mechanical inspections
- used-car warranty mechanical inspections
- NSW & NT roadworthy inspections
Locations
Call to discuss your inspection and request a quote.
Berri
Roly's Automotive Services
8582 2667
27 Jellett Rd, BerriMount Gambier
Autocare Mount Gambier
8725 2220
17 Calula Drive, Mount GambierPort Lincoln
Coffey Automotive
8682 4579
34 Edinburgh St, Port LincolnRocket Repairs
8682 6710
24 Proper Bay Road, Port Lincoln
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Are pre-purchase vehicle inspections worth the cost?
Yes. Buying a car is an expensive decision – especially if you get it wrong.
A vehicle inspection can help you find mechanical issues and understand if repairs are likely to be costly. During a pre-purchase total care inspection, we also check if the car has been written off, stolen, or is under finance.
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How long does a vehicle inspection take?
You should allow up to 2 hours for our most common pre-purchase inspection. The car model and the type of inspection may impact the length of the inspection. A rideshare or taxi inspection usually takes one hour.
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Do you inspect electric and hybrid vehicles?
In many cases, yes. We're confident we can find an inspection that's right for you. Please call our team on 8202 4688 to make an electric or hybrid car booking.
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It's better to be a member
RAA members can receive discounts on shopping and entertainment with RAA Rewards, enter exclusive competitions and access member-only services.
Plus, we love to reward our loyal members with savings on select policies and products.
Find out more in sa move – the RAA magazine
Would your car pass an RAA inspection?
RAA’s motoring experts uncover an average of 10 faults each time they inspect a car. Would your potential purchase pass the test?
Sale of stolen, written-off cars still alarming
A surprising number of cars on the market have been stolen, written-off or are under debt.
Advice for buying a used car
A car is likely to be one of the most expensive investments you’ll make. It’s essential to choose a reliable car that suits your needs and budget.
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Things you should know
Terms and conditions:
Keep in mind that prices may change due to things like unexpected difficulties with the vehicle, removal of parts and covers, or the need for additional workshop facilities. Take a moment to read the Terms and Conditions (PDF, 590 KB) that may apply to your type of inspection.
What do we inspect? Download our Inspection contents overview form (PDF, 594 KB).
Find a dealer:
If you’re looking to buy a car through a dealer, you don’t have to be an RAA member to access a vehicle inspection report. A car that’s been inspected by RAA will have signage on its windscreen, so be sure to ask your dealer for a copy of the report.
View our list of car dealers that stock RAA inspected vehicles.