Your 4×4 or 4WD has several components that require regular maintenance. Failing to take good care of your car can compromise its resale value, functionality and lead to various other issues. With a 4×4 mechanical service inspection, you can optimise the performance and value of your vehicle.
What is Mechanical Inspection?
A mechanical inspection refers to the physical and visual inspection of your vehicle’s functions by a certified service technician. It’s essential to take your car to an accredited technician for the best results. The mechanical pre-purchase inspection is vital in certifying whether the vehicle meets the seller’s stated value. It also allows you to determine whether a given car is worth buying for a specific purpose.
The inspection process involves evaluating your car for damage before it becomes worse. Issues such as bad engine oil or damaged spark plugs can easily lead to significant car damage.
Why Is a Mechanical Inspection Important?
A vehicle inspection is important for the following reasons:
1. Helps Preserve the Car’s Value
The value of any given vehicle depends on how well it’s maintained, regardless of the mileage or age. A car inspection helps you identify any form of damage that will likely have short or long-term side effects on its value. Usually, the car service provides evidence of each inspection date, which you can share with potential buyers.
2. Important for Road Safety
Any damage that occurs to the components in your vehicle is likely to compromise your road safety. Elements such as the brakes or even wipers are crucial if you want to drive around safely.
3. Affordable and Convenient Alternative
The occurrence of car damage is often unpredictable. Instead of waiting for evidence of damage or the mileage duration of the car to lapse, take your car for regular inspection. It will allow you to identify both minor and major maintenance issues ahead of time.
WHAT IS COVERED?
A 4WD or 4×4 vehicle has various components that require inspection. These can include:
The drivetrain sits below the vehicle, and it’s one of the most vulnerable components. Usually, the drivetrain sits in an exposed location, which means you have to get your qualified mechanic to check it out.
The Yoke is the component that allows a car’s suspension to flex when it’s moving.
On the surface, a car might seem stable and robust. However, the chassis might have experienced continual damage, a severe threat to the car’s value and functionality. The car body might also have dents and damage, which can be inspected for rust.
The engine consists of various parts, which are prone to damage over time. The main components to inspect include engine oil, spark plugs, piston rings, and various other similar parts.
The suspension is a critical aspect of the car’s stability, and it’s also prone to damage. Your car service will check the car suspension to identify when it needs repair.
There are various other components that your mechanic will evaluate, including the:
- Fuel supply systems and pumps.
- Radiators and the cooling fans.
- Wipers and windows.
- The transmission systems.
The POWER acronym refers to Petrol, Oil, Water, Electrics, and Rubber. These are all checked during a thorough service.
Things to Consider When Going for a 4X4
Mechanical Inspection Service
Your Budget
The price of a service depends on various factors. These can include the make and model, age, and your inspection preferences. We offer affordable options to suit all customers.
When You Last Went for an Inspection
The last time you went for a pre purchase inspection will determine whether you should go for another one. Factors such as the average driving distance and the amount of damage the vehicle’s components have sustained will also be important.
The Vehicle Mileage
The average distance the vehicle has travelled over time will also have a huge impact on whether it needs inspection. For instance, a vehicle that is still new won’t necessarily need an inspection compared to one that has run over 12 months.
How to Choose the Right Mechanic
Before investing in a suitable mechanic for your 4×4 or 4WD, consider the following factors:
1. Qualifications
Mechanics need to have the proper qualifications and accreditations in Australia. All members of our team have the right training and significant on-job experience.
2. Experience Level
The ideal mechanic should have immense experience under their belt. Our Perth mechanics are highly experienced across a range of different 4x4s and 4WDs.
3. Quality of Inspection Facilities
Our Welshpool workshop has the latest equipment to ensure we can properly diagnose, service and modify your vehicle.
Need an inspection for your vehicle, or one you’re considering purchasing?
Mechanical Inspection FAQ
What's Covered in a Mechanical Inspection?
During a mechanical inspection your technician will examine:
- The drivetrain and yoke.
- The chassis and car body.
- The engine and suspension.
- The fuel supply systems and pumps.
- The radiators and the cooling fans.
- The windshield wipers and windows.
- The transmission systems.
- The petrol levels, oil levels, water levels, electrics, and rubber.
Mechanical inspections are standard and don't vary much between vehicles. If you have questions about mechanical inspections, your technician can help.
Why Do I Need a Mechanical Inspection?
There are three main reasons why you need a technician to perform regular mechanical inspections:
- To help maintain your car's value.
- To identify and correct small problems before they become huge problems.
- To ensure your vehicle is safe to operate on the road. You don't want to put yourself or others in danger.
Having regular mechanical inspections will keep your car road-worthy for years to come. It can also help keep your maintenance costs low by allowing you to avoid more expensive repairs. Additionally, a well-maintained car has a higher trade-in or resale value.
How Long is a Mechanical Inspection Good For?
In general, a mechanical inspection is good for 120 days. If your last inspection was more than 120 days ago, and you plan to sell the vehicle, you'll need to have a new inspection performed. The vehicle doesn't have to pass to be sellable, but you are required to notify a buyer of any issues found in the inspection. If you're looking to buy a car, be sure to ask for this information. If you're buying a brand new car, this may not be necessary.
Other situations that indicate it's time for a new mechanical inspection include:
- If you're in an accident, even if you don't consider it serious.
- If you've noticed your car performing in a way that's out of the ordinary.
- If you plan to take a long trip or plan to travel to a remote area.
- If the car hasn't been driven in an extended period of time.
- If you're about to let a new driver begin operating the vehicle. You don't want your newly licensed teen breaking down on their first drive.
Get In touch with us
If you need 4×4 inspections, servicing, tuning, or modifications, we’re happy to help. Leave your details below and we’ll be in touch shortly.