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Dark grey Mercedes AMG coupe

Independent Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspections in Christchurch

Don’t Buy Someone Else’s Problem.

Buying a car privately? Get peace of mind before you hand over your cash. I provide expert, independent vehicle checks across Canterbury so you know exactly what you're buying.

Or email autotruthnz@gmail.com

20+ Years Experience
100% Independent
Fast, Clear Reports

Found the perfect car online? Let's make sure it's safe.

Under the hood engine inspection

Buying a car privately through TradeMe or Facebook Marketplace can be stressful. A fresh polish can hide a lot of expensive mechanical secrets.

Unlike the big corporate mechanic chains where you're just a number in a queue, Auto Truth Vehicle Inspections works directly for you. I don't sell cars, and I don't upsell repairs. I offer a straight-shooting, honest assessment from a local mechanic with over 20 years of hands-on experience.

Direct communication with the inspector

Unbiased, independent advice

Clear, jargon-free explanations of vehicle condition

Why book with Auto Truth Vehicle Inspections

  • Christchurch & Canterbury Mobile inspections — I come to the vehicle so you don’t lose a day at a workshop.
  • Sensible turnaround I aim to fit inspections in quickly — especially when you’ve found a car you don’t want to miss.
  • Written report included Traffic-light style summaries or fuller structured reports — plain English, no fluff.

Straightforward Pricing. No Hidden Fees.

Choose the level of detail you need for your prospective vehicle.

Basic Pre-Purchase Check

Ideal for lower-value vehicles or a quick risk assessment.

$149 / 45–60 mins
  • Exterior condition review
  • Interior condition review
  • Tyre condition & brake visual check
  • Engine bay visual inspection (no dismantling)
  • OBD diagnostic scan (where compatible)
  • 10–15 minute road test
  • Verbal summary on site
  • 1-page written risk summary (Traffic Light Rating)
Recommended

Comprehensive Pre-Purchase Check

Ideal for higher-value vehicles or buyers wanting a deeper review.

$249 / Up to 90 mins
  • Includes everything in the Basic Check, plus:
  • Underside inspection (ground-level only, no hoist)
  • Extended road test
  • Suspension & steering assessment
  • Cooling system visual review
  • Fluid condition assessment
  • Battery & charging system basic test
  • Full-system diagnostic auto scan (broader module coverage than basic OBD)
  • 2–3 page structured written report
  • Risk grading + purchase recommendation

Clear, Honest, and Independent.

My goal is transparency. To keep my service mobile, efficient, and affordable, I focus on comprehensive visual inspections, road tests, and diagnostic scans. Please note what this service does not include:

Mechanical dismantling or engine removal
Hoist inspections
Compression testing
Internal engine inspection
Workshop-level diagnostics

This is an independent advisory inspection only. It does not constitute a mechanical warranty or a guarantee of future performance.

Book Your Inspection.

Send a message and I’ll get back to you to confirm your booking.

Ready to book your inspection?

Don't leave your next car purchase to chance. Give me a call to discuss the vehicle you're looking at, and we can arrange a time that works for you and the seller.