Pre purchase vehicle inspection Perth services from CMM Automotive recently uncovered several mechanical and safety concerns during a Nissan Patrol inspection in Greenwood. Our mobile mechanic attended the vehicle’s location to assess its condition before a potential purchase.
The inspection identified worn suspension bushes, contaminated-looking lubricants, electrical faults and several interior problems. Our technician also noticed soot deposits around the turbocharger and inlet manifold.
A road test revealed brake shudder from the front of the vehicle, raising additional concerns about the braking system.
These findings highlight the importance of inspecting a used four-wheel drive before purchasing.
Mobile Nissan Patrol Pre Purchase Vehicle Check in Greenwood
Our pre purchase vehicle check service helps buyers understand a vehicle’s mechanical and general condition before committing to a purchase.
CMM Automotive provides mobile vehicle inspections throughout Perth, including Greenwood and surrounding suburbs.
During this inspection, our technician examined the Nissan Patrol’s engine, drivetrain, suspension, brakes, interior and bodywork.
We also conducted a road test to assess the vehicle’s braking performance and identify possible driving concerns.
A professional inspection can reveal problems that buyers might overlook during a short test drive.
Interior Damage and Rear Seat Problems
The Nissan Patrol’s interior showed several signs of wear and deterioration.
Our technician identified small holes in the dashboard trim.
The door trims also displayed minor scuffs and splits, while sections of the leather upholstery contained holes.
The rear seating system presented additional concerns.
Our technician could not operate the rear seats correctly. The right-hand rear seat mechanism was weak and failed to lock securely into position.
A seat that fails to lock correctly can create a safety concern for passengers.
Further investigation would help determine whether the seat mechanisms require adjustment or replacement.
These findings demonstrate why vehicle checks before buying should include interior safety components.
Hazard Lights and Electrical Problems
Our inspection identified several electrical faults.
The hazard warning lights failed to operate during testing.
This is an important safety concern because drivers rely on hazard lights to warn other motorists.
The windscreen washer bottles also contained no water or washer fluid.
Without sufficient fluid, the washer system cannot clean the windscreen effectively.
Only one remote operated the vehicle’s keyless entry system.
The remaining remote requires further testing to identify whether the problem involves its battery, programming or internal components.
Our technician also identified several exterior lighting faults during the inspection.
Battery Condition and Engine Oil Concerns
The Nissan Patrol’s engine compartment revealed several maintenance concerns.
Our technician tested the battery and found it in poor condition.
A weak battery can cause starting difficulties and may require replacement.
The engine oil also appeared dirty, suggesting that the vehicle required further maintenance assessment.
Dirty engine oil alone cannot confirm internal engine damage. However, its condition can indicate the need to review the vehicle’s service history.
Regular oil changes help protect engine components from excessive wear.
Our used car check service helps buyers identify maintenance concerns before purchasing a second-hand vehicle.
Turbocharger and Inlet Manifold Soot Deposits
Our technician noticed considerable soot deposits around the turbocharger and inlet manifold.
Both components showed visible soot accumulation.
These deposits can indicate exhaust leakage or other problems involving the engine’s intake and exhaust systems.
Further diagnostic testing would help identify the source of the deposits.
Turbocharger-related faults can affect engine performance and may lead to expensive repairs.
The inspection findings justified further investigation before making a purchasing decision.
A thorough inspection helps buyers understand which components may require additional mechanical attention.
Rear Differential and Transfer Case Oil Condition
The Nissan Patrol’s drivetrain inspection revealed additional maintenance concerns.
Our technician checked the rear differential oil and found it black.
The transfer case oil also appeared black.
Dark lubricant does not automatically confirm internal component damage. However, it can indicate lubricant deterioration or contamination.
Further assessment and servicing would help establish the condition of these components.
The differential and transfer case play important roles in transferring engine power to the wheels.
Maintaining suitable lubricant condition helps protect gears, bearings and other internal components.
A professional second hand car check can identify these warning signs before a buyer commits to a purchase.

Front Control Arm and Suspension Bush Wear
Our steering and suspension inspection identified several worn components.
The front control arm rubber bushes showed signs of deterioration.
Our technician also identified wear in other suspension bushes.
Worn bushes can allow excessive suspension movement and affect steering precision.
They may also contribute to unwanted noises, reduced ride comfort and uneven tyre wear.
The severity of these problems depends on the condition and location of the affected bushes.
Further assessment would determine which components require replacement.
These findings are particularly important on heavier four-wheel drives such as the Nissan Patrol.
Body Damage and Loose Mud Flaps
The Nissan Patrol’s exterior inspection identified several areas requiring attention.
Our technician noticed small dents and panel damage around the left-hand front of the vehicle.
Both front mud flaps were also loose.
Loose mud flaps can move while driving and may eventually detach if their mounting points fail.
Further inspection would help determine whether the mounting clips or brackets require replacement.
Although these concerns may appear minor, they contribute to the vehicle’s overall condition and potential repair costs.
A professional pre buy car check helps buyers consider both mechanical problems and visible body damage.
Exterior Lighting Faults
Our technician identified several faults involving the Nissan Patrol’s exterior lights.
The left-hand front parking light failed to operate.
The left-hand rear parking light also failed during testing.
An indicator light was also inoperative.
These faults require further investigation to determine whether defective bulbs, wiring or other electrical components caused the problems.
Correct lighting operation is essential for road safety, particularly during night driving.
The combination of lighting faults and defective hazard lights raised additional concerns about the vehicle’s electrical condition.
Road Test Reveals Front Brake Shudder
During the road test, our technician noticed a distinct shudder from the front of the Nissan Patrol while braking.
Brake shudder can indicate uneven brake disc thickness, worn rotors or other braking system problems.
Further testing would help establish the exact cause.
The front brake discs and related components require closer assessment before repairs proceed.
Brake problems can affect driving comfort and may compromise braking performance.
This finding was particularly important because the vehicle already displayed several other maintenance and safety concerns.
Why a Nissan Patrol Inspection Matters
Used four-wheel drives can experience significant wear throughout their working lives.
Towing, off-road driving and demanding operating conditions can place additional stress on mechanical components.
A pre purchase vehicle inspection Perth service helps buyers identify potential problems before committing to a vehicle.
This Nissan Patrol displayed concerns involving its braking system, drivetrain lubricants, suspension and electrical components.
The interior seat faults and exterior lighting problems also required attention.
Identifying these concerns allows buyers to obtain repair estimates and assess the vehicle’s overall value.
Book a Mobile Vehicle Inspection in Perth
CMM Automotive provides independent vehicle inspections throughout Perth, including Greenwood and surrounding suburbs.
Our experienced mobile mechanic attends the vehicle’s location and assesses its mechanical and general condition.
Whether you are purchasing a Nissan Patrol, Toyota LandCruiser, Mitsubishi Pajero or another used four-wheel drive, an inspection can help reduce unexpected repair expenses.
Visit our mobile pre purchase vehicle inspection Perth service page to learn more or arrange an inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a vehicle inspection identify worn suspension bushes?
Yes. Our technician checks accessible suspension components for visible wear, splitting and deterioration. Further testing may help determine the repairs required.
Does black differential oil mean the differential is damaged?
Not necessarily. Dark oil can indicate deterioration or contamination, but further inspection is necessary to assess internal component condition.
What causes brake shudder during a road test?
Brake shudder can result from uneven brake disc thickness, worn rotors or other braking system problems. Further testing helps identify the cause.
