How much does a pre-purchase car inspection cost in New Zealand?
A mechanic's pre-purchase inspection in New Zealand costs about NZ$130–$280. A history report costs about NZ$12–$14. Credov sits between them: a check of the actual car, done by you on your phone, from NZ$29.90.
| Option | Price | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| AA pre-purchase inspection | NZ$199 members, NZ$229 others | A mechanic's 100+ point check with a test drive and report. Booking needed, 75–90 minutes (AA). |
| Independent workshop | NZ$130–$280 | A mechanic's check and written report. Price and depth vary (MTA). |
| CarJam or MotorWeb report | NZ$12–$14 | History, money owing and odometer records. Nothing about the car's actual condition. |
| Credov | NZ$29.90 Quick, NZ$39.90 Deep | A checklist for the exact car with its known faults, done by you in 30–45 minutes, and a report with repair prices. |
Which one do you need?
- Always get a history and money-owing report. It is cheap and catches the worst surprises.
- For an expensive car, or one you can't get to, a mechanic's inspection is worth it.
- For most everyday cars, especially when you are looking at several, check them yourself with Credov first, and only pay a mechanic for the one you are about to buy.
What a cheap inspection can't do
No inspection without a hoist sees everything. A visual check from the ground won't find faults that only show with parts taken off, or that come and go. Credov tells you what it checked and what it couldn't.
Questions
How much is an AA pre-purchase inspection?
NZ$199 for AA members and NZ$229 for non-members, with extra for an EV battery check (AA website, October 2026).
Is a pre-purchase inspection worth it?
For most used cars, yes. In the 2024 NZ Consumer Survey, 22% of private-sale buyers had a problem with the car, and the average fix cost $11,762.