Posted on July 22, 2026 by Grant

Before purchasing an older ute, a Used Car Vehicle Inspection Aveley can reveal mechanical and safety problems that may not appear during a short test drive. CMM Automotive recently inspected a 1996 Toyota Hilux in Aveley and found several issues affecting the vehicle’s steering, brakes, engine, cooling system and body condition.

Interior Inspection

We started inside the cabin. The carpet was dirty, and both air vents had missing adjustment knobs. The door trims showed significant wear, while the trim around the interior rear-view mirror was loose. The exterior mirror glass had faded, and the windscreen washer jets required adjustment. We also found worn clutch and brake pedal rubbers.

Engine Inspection

Our inspection then moved to the engine bay. The battery performed poorly during testing, and the battery clamps did not hold it securely. The air conditioning produced warm air instead of cooling the cabin. We also found corrosion around the radiator coupling and top radiator hose. The power steering system had an oil leak, and the power steering pump produced excessive noise.

The fuel filter was leaking, while corrosion and staining covered parts of the engine block. We also found oil leaking from the engine, requiring further investigation and repair.

Steering, Brakes and Suspension

All four tyres showed significant wear and scalloping. The power steering box had excessive wear, and the front shock absorber rubbers had deteriorated. We also found the front brake flexible hoses had stretched, which requires immediate attention.

During the inspection, the steering system showed excessive wear and free play. These faults can affect vehicle control and require repair before normal driving.

Body and Exterior Inspection

The exterior inspection identified several faults. The reverse lights did not operate, while the front park light lens had faded. Both rear doors showed rust, and the left-hand front door seal had sustained damage. The door locks were stiff, and the central locking did not operate from the driver’s door.

We also found dents in the front bull bar, and the right-hand side indicator did not work.

Road Test

During the road test, the power steering remained noisy. The vehicle felt very heavy under braking and pulled towards the left-hand side. We also detected excessive steering free play on the road. The steering wheel vibrated and sat off-centre while driving.

Before buying an older used vehicle, arrange a Used Car Vehicle Inspection Aveley with CMM Automotive. We provide pre purchase vehicle inspections, mobile vehicle inspections, independent vehicle inspections and used car inspections throughout Aveley and surrounding Perth suburbs. Our detailed inspection reports help buyers understand a vehicle’s condition before making a purchase