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Pre Purchase Inspection

A vehicle inspection by our experienced team will help resolve any concerns so you can buy your car with confidence

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Why an AA Pre Purchase Inspection is so important

When you buy a car, you may have a number of questions about its condition and safety that you can't answer yourself. Assume nothing. An independent AA Pre Purchase Vehicle Inspection will give you complete peace of mind. 

View a sample AA Pre Purchase Inspection report

PPI2021

Pricing

$184 AA MembersBook
$209 Non MembersBook

With our vehicle inspection, you’ll get:

  • A comprehensive 100+ point vehicle check by an experienced mechanic (taking approx. 90 minutes)
  • An overview of any recommended repairs
  • An indication of any potential WoF issues
  • Clarity around the condition of the car before you buy it
  • Personalised service - whether you're coming to one of our many site locations or we're coming to you!
  • Reassurance that you can buy your car with confidence

Why choose the AA?

  • We’re independent - you can trust us
  • We have more than 30 sites across New Zealand and have been helping Kiwi motorists for over 25 years
  • If you live in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch or Hamilton, we have mobile inspectors who can come to you*
  • We inspect and test over 100,000 vehicles every year, across our range of services
  • We check and test over 100 unique parts with every car inspection
  • We combine our practical knowledge with the use of specialist diagnostic equipment to test a vehicle's alternator, starter motor and 12v battery system

 

More information

AA Vehicle Inspection report terms and conditions
Cancellation policy for online bookings
AA Vehicle Inspection glossary of terms

*For the location to be suitable for a mobile inspection, the location must be on private property (not on the side of the road or public carpark etc.) and the inspection area must be on firm, level ground (concrete or similar). Gravel or grass areas are not acceptable.

*Should you require an inspection on a low volume high performance vehicle we recommend contacting the authorised dealer to request specialised assistance

Frequently asked questions

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What is the difference between an AA Vehicle Appraisal and an AA Pre Purchase Inspection?

An AA Appraisal has had a 43-point mechanical check by the AA which focuses on mechanical and safety aspects of the car, and gives an overall evaluation of the vehicle. We recommend that anyone looking to buy a used car also gets an AA Pre Purchase Inspection, which is a comprehensive 100+ point check, which provides buyers with an overview of recommended repairs and any potential WoF issues.

Do all AA Auto Centres offer AA Pre Purchase Inspections?

Selected AA Auto Centre sites offer AA Pre Purchase Inspections. Please visit the PPI Booking Enquiry form to see available locations in your area.

How much is an AA Pre Purchase Inspection?

$184 for AA Members, $209 for non-Members.

Where do you provide mobile services for AA Pre Purchase Inspections?

If you live in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Hamilton, Hastings, Napier or Havelock North, we have mobile inspectors who can come to you. Please note that for the location to be suitable for a mobile inspection, the location must meet set criteria (i.e. the inspection area must be level and firm - concrete or similar, not gravel or grass).

Is a compression test included in an AA Pre Purchase Inspection?

No. Modern vehicles will display a warning light if a lack of compression is detected.

Can you do an AA Pre Purchase Inspection on an unwarranted/unregistered vehicle?

Only when the car has a dealer plate can we perform a PPI on an unregistered vehicle. We cannot road test any vehicle that is illegal on the road.

Can you provide a Warrant of Fitness inspection during an AA Pre Purchase Inspection?

No. A WoF must be done separately from the PPI.

What is the weight limit for an AA Pre Purchase Inspection?

We can inspect vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of up to 3,500kg.

What if I can’t find my vehicle type when booking an AA Pre Purchase Inspection online?

Vehicles models are updated periodically. If you cannot see yours, please call us on 0800 500 333 and select Option 1. We can then check for you.

What is an AA Pre Purchase Inspection?

An AA Pre Purchase Inspection conducts a thorough visual and operating inspection of the vehicle. Our practical knowledge is combined with the use of specialist diagnostic equipment to provide an independent assessment of the vehicle's condition at the time of inspection. 

What does an AA Pre Purchase Inspection include?

An AA Vehicle Inspection checks over 100 items and includes exterior and interior inspections, driveline, engine, cooling system, suspension and steering, brakes, wheels and tyres and vehicle operation. 

Read more about car and vehicle inspections

Where can I get an AA Pre Purchase Inspection?

Many AA Auto Centre Sites can conduct AA Pre Purchase Inspections and we have mobile inspectors in major cities across New Zealand. Both depot and mobile inspections cost the same and to book a vehicle inspection you can either book online. 

How long does an AA Pre Purchase Inspection take?

An AA Pre Purchase Inspection takes between 1.25 and 1.5 hours. If you are a buyer, please make sure you advise the person who owns the vehicle of the booking times.