Classic car inspection Melbourne
Love classic cars? Protect your next vintage purchase with a car inspection!
Most vintage cars have a longer and more complicated history than your average used car, so it’s crucial you organise a classic car inspection before you sign off on a deal.
Despite the great peace of mind it offers, many people still ask themselves whether a car inspection is really worth it.
Put it this way: if the inspection uncovers issues you’re uncomfortable with, or will be costly to repair, isn’t that worth more than eventually growing to regret your purchase?
Buying a car is a large investment; one of the biggest you’ll make in your life.
And without knowing its history or any hidden defects, you might end up purchasing a vehicle that simply isn’t worth its price.
Unique considerations of classic cars
A classic car is classified as any kind of vehicle that is typically 30 years or older.
They require a detailed inspection to cover areas like the original wiring system and rust in the car’s body and frame.
A thorough inspection will determine whether the car has been looked after or restored properly over time, giving you the confidence to make a solid purchase!
General checks
The car inspection starts with a general check where we look at:
- Repaired accident damage
- Extensive rust inspection in body & chassis
- Engine, transmission, and differential operation
- Lengthy road test
Additionally, roadworthy items are thoroughly checked, along with matching numbers, modification compliance and lengthy road test for performance, tracking and braking issues.
Rust issues
Rust is the number one concern with older classic cars.
During the car check, all floor pans, sills, quarter panels, pillars and Chassis etc. are inspected closely to check their condition.
We also make detailed notes of the repairs to where rust may have been, so you have a full understanding of costs you might incur in the future to repair any damage.
Performance
cars
Commonly known as ‘muscle cars’, this modification was popular during the mid 60s to early 70s, when people would install more powerful engines into smaller cars, essentially overpowering them.
It’s important to understand how your car has been modified over the years.
Body and frame damage
We’ll inspect the frame of the vehicle to uncover any hidden damage, or discover damage that may have been repaired in the past.
Body damage can sometimes be hard to identify with the naked eye.
Enjoy complete peace of mind and transparency with a classic car inspection that will help you answer the question: “Is the body damage minor or substantial, and is it something I want to look at fixing in the future?”
Unique considerations of classic cars
A classic car is classified as any kind of vehicle that is typically 30 years or older.
They require a detailed inspection to cover areas like the original wiring system and rust in the car’s body and frame.
A thorough inspection will determine whether the car has been looked after or restored properly over time, giving you the confidence to make a solid purchase!
General checks
The car inspection starts with a general check where we look at:
- Repaired accident damage
- Extensive rust inspection in body & chassis
- Engine, transmission, and differential operation
- Lengthy road test
Additionally, roadworthy items are thoroughly checked, along with matching numbers, modification compliance and lengthy road test for performance, tracking and braking issues.
Rust issues
Rust is the number one concern with older classic cars.
During the car check, all floor pans, sills, quarter panels, pillars and Chassis etc. are inspected closely to check their condition.
We also make detailed notes of the repairs to where rust may have been, so you have a full understanding of costs you might incur in the future to repair any damage.
Performance cars
Commonly known as ‘muscle cars’, this modification was popular during the mid 60s to early 70s, when people would install more powerful engines into smaller cars, essentially overpowering them.
It’s important to understand how your car has been modified over the years.
Body and frame damage
We’ll inspect the frame of the vehicle to uncover any hidden damage, or discover damage that may have been repaired in the past.
Body damage can sometimes be hard to identify with the naked eye.
Enjoy complete peace of mind and transparency with a classic car inspection that will help you answer the question: “Is the body damage minor or substantial, and is it something I want to look at fixing in the future?”
Other considerations
You will also want to think about your purpose when buying a classic car.
Are you looking for a new project? Restoring classic cars is a popular pastime for motor enthusiasts, so a car that has mechanical defects isn’t always necessarily a bad thing.
But while you might be ready to get your hands dirty, you should also understand the condition of the car to make sure you’re paying the right price.
Buying a classic car?
Finding a classic car takes patience. Here are some tips to avoid a lemon!
- Know your motivation – are you looking for your next restoration project? Or are you simply an avid collector?
- Don’t be afraid to negotiate with your seller – be calm, measured, and realistic
- Older cars often contain parts that are either no longer made or hard to come by, so make sure you understand exactly what may be involved if you’re planning to restore (or even tinker with) a vintage car
- Find out if there are any classic car clubs that support the car you’re looking to buy – people here are always willing to share advice and guidance
- Look into insurance before you buy. Figure out how your car insurer will value your car and put together a policy
A classic car inspection puts the power back into the buyer’s hand: uncover any problems or determine any future repair costs to help you make the right offer!
Book your pre-purchase car inspection today: call Cliff on 0457 974 719!
Don't buy a lemon!
Call me during business hours on 0457 974 719 or use this online form and I'll come back to you quick-smart.
"Great friendly honest service made me 100% confident towards my car purchase. Highly recommended." ~ David Chapman
Contact me. And remember, I come to you.