If you’re in the market for a second-hand car, its a smart move to get it checked out by an inspector to help avoid costly and unexpected mechanic bills in the near future. You can get your local mechanic to take a look, or buy an inspection from one of the main PPI providers – the Automotive Association (AA) or My Auto Shop.
What is a Pre-purchase Inspection (PPI)?
A PPI is designed to inform the buyer of the condition of a car, both from a mechanical and visual standpoint. The test should include a brief road test to check for things like suspension or transmission issues, but is not a safety check, and not a substitute for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF). As a non-invasive check, a PPI aims to identify and notify the buyer of any obvious faults or problems, but is not likely to find all the cars issues, issues with the internal workings of the engine, or to fix any of the problems that are found.
Who is the AA?
One of the oldest brands in New Zealand, the AA has a deep history in motoring. They have expanded into insurance and other verticals too. They are often referred to as an institution, which is very traditional. A membership is generally required to access their services at a reduced rate.
Who is My Auto Shop?
A new business in New Zealand, embodying technology to make customers’ lives easier. They are part owned by Trade Me and a software company at heart, however have a fleet of mobile mechanics and inspectors in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. With thousands of happy customers already, they’re turning a lot of heads.
What are the operational differences between an AA and My Auto Shop Pre-Purchase Inspection?
| My Auto Shop | AA | |
| Price | From $129. | $209. ($184 for members) |
| Customisation | Add extras like: Diagnostic Scan Relative Compression Test Hybrid Battery Test Vehicle History Report Detailed Interior/Exterior | Fixed report |
| Convenience | Will go direct to seller/dealer | Will do direct to seller/dealer |
| Speed | Book same or next day. | Book next day. |
| Ease of booking | Online, Phone, Email with <1 hour response time. | Online, Phone. Unpredictable response time. |
| Geographical coverage | Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch. | Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, Christchurch. |
| Payment Methods | Credit Card, Afterpay, Google/Apple Pay. | Credit Card |
Is there differences in what they check?
Both the AA and My Auto Shop offer remote inspections, meaning that inspectors will travel to the cars location in order to complete the inspection. My Auto Shop offers a range of “extra” checks that can be bundled with the base check at an additional cost. These include a:
- Comprehensive interior / exterior check – designed for those that have not seen the car themselves (often as they are from a different town);
- Computer diagnostic scan – this checks the cars computer systems for current and historical faults which can’t be seen;
- Vehicle Information Report or VIR – provided by MotorWeb this report shows if there is money owing on the car, or if its been in a previous accident; and
- Hybrid battery test – this is a measure of battery capacity compared to when it was new. Lower capacity may result in less range at full charge.
In addition to the ability to add these extras, the My Auto Shop base PPI also includes a number of important tests not included in the AA inspection. These include a:
- Brake fluid moisture test – check for water in the brake fluid, which can impact your brakes performance;
- Coolant temperature test – checks what temperature the coolant in the system will cool the engine to below zero. This can save your engine from overheating.
- Tee-Kay test – checks for leaks from the head gasket, a major expense to fix!
How does a Pre-purchase Check work?
If you are interested in buying a car and getting it inspected, you will need to arrange a suitable time and place for the inspection. In order to work safely the car will need to be on a firm, flat surface (not grass) with at least 1 metre of space surrounding it. This requires you to liaise with the seller in order to confirm when it suits them. Inspections take anywhere between 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on the car. You can book a PPI online in minutes, and usually have the car inspected the next day.
A thorough report (see sample My Auto Shop report) and any extra comments or notes from the inspector will be given once the inspection has been completed.
How much does a Pre-purchase Inspection cost?
The AA currently charges $184 for AA members and $209 for non members (membership starts from $89 if you live in Auckland or $79 for the rest of New Zealand each year).
My Auto Shop inspections cost from $129. You can book one here.
Before booking a PPI with My Auto Shop please check both businesses Terms and Conditions.
Summary:
Both options will give you some further insight into the mechanical condition of the car, but if you’re looking for a fast, easier service, and are keen to keep some money in your pocket, or to customise what aspects of the vehicle you want investigated, then the My Auto Shop pre-purchase inspection is the better choice.