In NSW, it is the Pink Slip (eSafety check). In Queensland, the Safety Certificate. In Victoria, the Roadworthy Certificate. In WA, the Vehicle Inspection. Different names, same stress — will the car pass?

Every year, thousands of Australian cars fail their safety inspection. The owner has to fix the problems, rebook, wait, and pay again. For used car sales, a failed roadworthy can delay or kill the deal.

This is your opportunity: offer a pre-inspection service that catches failures before the official test. Your customer passes first time, every time. And they remember who saved them the hassle.

What Inspectors Check (National Common Points)

  • Brakes: Pad thickness, disc condition, fluid level, handbrake operation, no leaks
  • Steering: No excessive free play, power steering operation, no leaks, tie rod ends
  • Suspension: Shocks not leaking, no worn bushings, springs intact
  • Lights: All external lights functioning — headlights, indicators, brake lights, reverse, number plate
  • Tyres: Minimum tread (1.5mm), no damage, correct rating, matching per axle
  • Windscreen: No cracks in the swept area
  • Seat belts: All functional, no fraying
  • Exhaust: No leaks, catalytic converter present
  • Body: No sharp edges, rust that affects structure

Your Pre-Inspection Package

"Pass First Time — $149 Pre-Inspection Check"

  • 45-minute inspection covering every official checkpoint
  • Written report: PASS / FAIL / ADVISORY per item
  • Quote for any repairs needed
  • Guarantee: fix what we recommend, pass first time

Most cars need $200–$800 in repairs to pass. Your total job value: $349–$949. The customer saves the stress, the re-inspection fee ($30–$50), and the time of rebooking.

The Used Car Sale Pipeline

Every used car sale on CarSales, Facebook Marketplace, or Gumtree needs a roadworthy. Target private sellers: "Selling your car? Get a pre-roadworthy check before listing — $149. Fix issues before the buyer discovers them."

And here is the hidden benefit: the BUYER also needs a mechanic. When they see your workshop name on the inspection report, they know you are thorough and professional. Many buyers become your customer after purchasing the car you inspected.

Track every inspection, every vehicle, every result with Mekavo. Set annual reminders for rego renewal. Free for Australian workshops — build the system that turns a one-time inspection into a lifetime customer.