A pre purchase car inspection Perth service can reveal mechanical problems even when a used vehicle appears to be in very good condition. CMM Automotive recently inspected a Honda Accord in Crawley and found several issues that a potential buyer should know about.
The interior presented very well and showed no obvious faults. However, our mechanical checks and road test identified an oil leak, poor battery condition, worn tyres, clutch shudder and a noisy CV joint.
Honda Accord Interior in Very Good Condition
We started our inspection inside the Honda Accord.
The interior presented in very good condition, and we found no faults to record. A clean and well-maintained interior can certainly make a positive first impression when looking at a used vehicle.
However, interior condition doesn’t always reflect the mechanical condition underneath.
That is why a thorough pre purchase car inspection Perth service should include the engine bay, tyres, brakes, suspension, body and a road test where possible.
Poor Battery and Rocker Cover Oil Leak
Our engine bay inspection identified two areas requiring attention.
The battery tested poorly and may require replacement. A weak battery can eventually cause slow cranking or starting problems, particularly as it continues to deteriorate.
We also found an engine oil leak around the rocker cover gasket.
Rocker cover gasket leaks can allow engine oil to travel down the outside of the engine. The buyer should consider this repair when assessing the vehicle’s condition and likely maintenance costs.
Finding an oil leak before buying also gives the purchaser an opportunity to discuss the problem with the seller.
Tyres and Wheel Condition
We then inspected the steering, brakes, suspension, wheels and tyres.
Several scuff marks were visible on the front rims. We also found minor kerb damage on the rear rims.
More importantly, the Honda required two replacement tyres.
Tyres represent an immediate additional expense when buying a used car. Checking their condition during a used car inspection can help a buyer understand what the vehicle may need shortly after purchase.
Body Damage and Missing Spare Tyre
Our exterior inspection found damage to the left-hand front guard.
We also discovered that the spare tyre was missing.
A missing spare tyre may seem like a relatively minor issue, but it is something a buyer should know about before purchasing the vehicle. Replacing missing equipment adds another potential cost after the sale.
Recording body damage also helps the buyer assess the vehicle as a whole rather than concentrating only on its mechanical condition.
Road Test Found Clutch Shudder and CV Joint Noise
The road test revealed two of the most significant findings from this Honda Accord inspection.
We noticed a minor clutch shudder while driving the vehicle. Clutch shudder can have several possible causes, so the buyer should consider further investigation if the symptoms become more noticeable.
We also heard noise from the left-hand CV joint.
A worn CV joint can produce clicking or knocking noises, particularly while turning or accelerating. Finding this type of problem during a road test gives the buyer valuable information before completing the purchase.
This is one reason CMM Automotive includes a road test when conditions allow. A stationary inspection alone cannot always reveal how a vehicle behaves once it is moving.
A Good Interior Doesn’t Tell the Whole Story
This Honda Accord in Crawley presented with a very good interior and no interior faults to record.
However, our pre purchase car inspection Perth service uncovered several other concerns. These included a poor battery, rocker cover gasket oil leak, two tyres requiring replacement, body damage, a missing spare tyre, minor clutch shudder and noise from the left-hand CV joint.
None of these findings automatically determines whether someone should buy the vehicle.
Instead, an inspection gives the buyer more information. They can then consider the vehicle’s condition, possible repair costs and asking price before making their decision.
CMM Automotive provides pre purchase vehicle inspections across Perth, helping used car buyers understand what they are purchasing before handing over their money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a car look good but still have mechanical problems?
Yes. A clean interior and exterior do not necessarily indicate good mechanical condition. Engine, drivetrain, suspension and other problems may only become apparent during a detailed inspection and road test.
Why does CMM Automotive road test a vehicle?
A road test can reveal problems such as clutch shudder, CV joint noise, steering issues, vibrations and other faults that may not appear while the vehicle remains stationary.
Should I inspect a used car before paying for it?
A pre purchase inspection can provide valuable information about the vehicle’s current condition and help you consider possible repair and maintenance costs before completing the purchase.
