Testing Stations

Vehicle Pre-Purchase Inspection – Terms and Conditions

By booking a PPI in your name, you enter a contract with VINZ and agree to accept the following Terms and Conditions.

What is a PPI

  • A PPI is a non-invasive, visual inspection to check the condition and appearance of a vehicle at the time of inspection. Below is a list of some of the assessments that the Inspector will undertake when preparing the PPI Report as well as the requirements for the inspection.

What is not Included

  • The PPI does not include any computer, electrical or mechanical diagnosis.Timing / Cam belts are not inspected. VINZ recommends you contact a representative of the manufacturer to assess the condition of the vehicle’s timing/cam belt.

    The PPI will not identify hidden defects, intermittent faults or problems that require parts of the vehicle to be removed.

    The PPI does not provide information about the registration, liens or finance secured over a vehicle, or vehicle ownership. VINZ recommends you check this information.

    A PPI for electric / hybrid vehicles does not include an assessment of the electric drive and battery components (visual only). Engine diagnostics are unable to be completed on a hybrid vehicle.

    Headlamp operation check does not include an alignment check.

Terms and conditions

  1. No parts or covers are removed for a PPI except for the following, if they are easily accessible:
    • Access to the spare wheel and tools.
    • Air cleaner.
    • Battery cover.
  2. The PPI Report will not identify whether any of the vehicle’s systems or parts will continue to operate acceptably after the PPI has been completed.
  3. The findings of the PPI are evaluated against the age and mileage of the vehicle to determine the overall condition[SW1] .
  4. Any documents referred to in the PPI Report are listed so you know they are available. VINZ is not liable for the accuracy or completeness of these documents.
  5. The information provided in the PPI Report may be affected by the weather or other conditions or if the inspector is not able to perform the road test at 50km/per hour.
  6. A vehicle must have a current WOF and Registration for a PPI road-test to be conducted.
  7. The PPI Report is for VINZ’s customer and VINZ is under no contractual obligation to supply information or copies of the PPI Report to a third party.
  8. VINZ reserves the right to change or move a booking for a PPI due to any unforeseen circumstances.
  9. You agree to pay the PPI fee to VINZ at the time of booking the PPI. This prepayment is subject to VINZ’s Cancellation and Refund Policy.
  10. VINZ liability to you for any errors, omissions, defects or damages in reliance of  the PPI Report will be limited to the fee received by VINZ for preparing the PPI Report.

Vehicles not suitable for a PPI

VINZ does not conduct a PPI on the following vehicles and instead VINZ recommends you obtain a specialised inspection specifically for the vehicle type:

  • Vehicles over 3,500kgs.
  • Selected vehicles with underbody shields that need to be removed.
  • Luxury, deluxe, high performance or specialist vehicles.
  • We do not do PPI inspections on Motorhomes or Caravans.

Additional information
Engine

Engine noise, fumes and exhaust smoke are observed. An electronic cylinder balance test is carried out to provide an indication of engine condition. A combustion leak test is performed in conjunction with the cooling system check. External drive belts and engine ancillaries are checked if accessible.

Electrical/Lights

The battery and alternator are tested. All lights are checked to ensure their operation and wipers and electrical functions [SW3] are checked for operation. The alignment of headlights is not checked.

Cooling system

The radiator, water pump and hoses are checked externally for deterioration and leaks. A pressure test is conducted for leaks and internal engine issues. Antifreeze and anti-corrosion condition tested. A combustion leak test is performed to check for exhaust gasses in the cooling system.

Wheels/tyres

Wheels and tyres are inspected for damage. Tyres are checked for tread depth and abnormal wear patterns. Tyres are checked for compatibility and the type of spare wheel is identified and checked.

Interior and trim

The interior is checked for damage, wear and tear,  stains and operational issues. Seat belts, warning lights, windows, sunroof and glazing are also checked, together with interior lighting, the vehicles tool kit and jack.

Exterior

The exterior, vehicle body and external mirrors are checked for dents, corrosion and damage.

Underbody and suspension

The underbody is inspected for signs of accident damage, corrosion and other structural damage. The exhaust system is checked for leaks and general condition, while the steering system is checked for correct operation. The engine, steering and suspension systems are checked for leaks. The suspension system is reviewed for damage and effective operation.

Brakes

The brake performance evaluated for effective stopping distance and imbalance. Brake surfaces and brake lines are visually inspected, if accessible, for damage, excessive wear and / or leaks.

Road test

Provided the vehicle has a current WOF and Registration a road-test is conducted at a maximum of 50 kilometres per hour to assess driveability under normal driving conditions.

25 August 2020