Vehicle Inspections Perth
A seamless and effective inspection process
Buying a used car, getting ready for a big trip or staring at a warning light? The same question comes up: is it sound and safe? Vehicle inspections ensure that every vehicle on the road is operating safely and efficiently.
It’s important to have a thorough inspection to identify any potential issues before they become major problems. We take the guesswork out with a proper on-hoist check, a road test that includes assessing the vehicle’s performance while driving to ensure safety and reliability, and objective measurements so you get straight, useful answers, not jargon.
Thorough inspections help identify issues like brake pad wear, fluid leaks, and tyre degradation early. We call you with what matters, what can wait and what it costs to fix, then you decide.
Most inspections are completed the same day. Drop off from 7:30 am Tuesday to Friday and pick up by 5:30 pm, or use our after-hours locker. Vehicle inspections help maintain road safety standards and prevent accidents. You can also conveniently schedule your inspection online through our website.
Advanced car diagnostics
Modern vehicles are rolling computers. To diagnose accurately and get you answers faster, we use the Opus IVS DrivePro2 for OEM-level diagnostics, calibrations and programming.
It lets us confirm faults with live data, run factory software when needed and get specialist support on complex issues, so more work is solved in-house and your report is backed by evidence.
- OEM software access – J2534 pass-through and Farsight OE mode let us run factory software where required.
- Live support – IVS360 links us with OEM master technicians for tricky faults and guided tests.
- AI triage – the AiDN assistant provides instant suggestions and checks 24/7 to speed up decision-making.
- Programming – Remote Assisted Programming (RAP) or in-house reprogramming when appropriate.
- Efficient and transparent – fewer rechecks and clear report notes with scan data or screenshots when useful.
A few words from Morgan
Hi I’m Morgan, the lead diagnostics technician and trainer at Autoplus WA. We have been looking after Perth drivers since 2000. I oversee our inspection program and technician training so the process is consistent no matter who is on the tools that day.
Your vehicle goes on the hoist, we work through a system-by-system checklist, road test it and use objective tools to verify what we find. This vehicle inspection thoroughly checks your vehicle’s condition to ensure it meets all safety and compliance standards required by law. Vehicle compliance and follow-up inspections confirm all defects have been fixed.
Having your vehicle inspected is important to confirm compliance with legal and safety requirements before it goes back on the road. A senior technician will review the results and we will call you to explain priorities, timing and costs in plain English.
What you can expect from our team
- Plain English before any work – you will get a phone call first. If something is urgent I will explain why and what it takes to fix. If it can wait I will say so. No scare tactics and no pressure.
- Precision gear, proven process – your car goes on the hoist, we work through a consistent checklist, use scan tools and objective brake, suspension and alignment tests to confirm what we see.
- Convenience and care – easy drop-off from 7:30 am, early key drop and after-hours pickup. We use seat and floor covers, keep you updated and have your paperwork ready on pickup.
- Lifetime workmanship warranty on repairs – when we complete repairs our workmanship is covered for life for as long as you own the vehicle. If something does not feel right after a repair, come back and we will make it right.
- Reports you can act on – photos and a prioritised list: safety, recommended, monitor.
Inspection types
Pick the inspection that fits your situation. We offer a full range of automotive services, including comprehensive inspection services tailored to different needs. Vehicle inspections are vital not only for personal safety but also for the protection of other road users.
Every option includes an on-hoist check, road test and a clear, prioritised report, plus a call to explain what matters and next steps. Inspectors provide a detailed report of the vehicle’s overall condition after an inspection is complete.
You can schedule your preferred inspection type in advance to ensure timely service for all vehicle types, including trailers and commercial vehicles. Regular vehicle inspections are mandatory and failing to comply can result in penalties.
Check out our comprehensive pre-inspection checklist here: Vehicle Pre-Inspection Checklist
Pre-purchase inspection
Buy with confidence. We carry out a thorough on-hoist and road test assessment, check for leaks and faults, and provide a clear report with photos. Pre-purchase inspections help identify any potential issues with a used vehicle before purchase.
Pre-purchase inspections assist in validating the actual condition of a vehicle being sold. You will get a prioritised list of items, estimated repair costs on request and a phone call to talk through anything we find before you make a decision.
A comprehensive pre-purchase inspection helps ensure you are making a well-informed and secure vehicle purchase. Most buyers are unaware of hidden problems with the vehicles they intend to purchase without an inspection. Failing to conduct a pre-purchase inspection can lead to costly repairs and issues after the sale.
Comprehensive safety inspection
Ideal for families and daily drivers who want peace of mind. We check all key systems, confirm tyre and brake condition, and verify alignment with an objective test. You will know what is safe to drive now, what to plan for and what can wait.
End-of-warranty inspection
Make the most of your factory coverage. We look for wear and issues that should be addressed under warranty, so you can book in with your dealer armed with evidence.
Insurance and warranty inspections
After an accident or theft, a thorough inspection helps your insurer price repairs accurately so work can start sooner and you are back on the road faster.
As a trusted repairer, we uncover all damage and supply the evidence your insurer needs for a first-time accurate quote. We also carry out condition inspections for insurers and lenders when a vehicle check is required before a policy or finance approval.
Pre-trip inspection
Heading north or towing a van or trailers. We focus on cooling, braking, suspension and tyres so your trip is smooth and safe.
4WD and towing readiness check
Extra attention on underbody, suspension, brakes, cooling and electricals. We highlight any concerns with loads, accessories or towing setups and suggest fixes before you head off.
What’s included in our vehicle inspections
Every inspection follows a methodical checklist that covers all key areas of the vehicle.
Below is a guide to what we look at and the common issues we flag. The inspection is designed to assess the vehicle’s overall condition and safety. If anything needs attention, we will show you photos and explain options.
| System area | What we inspect | Typical issues we flag |
| Brakes | Pads, rotors, drums where fitted, lines and hoses, brake fluid test, handbrake operation | Uneven braking, thin pads, warped rotors, leaks, low fluid quality |
| Steering and suspension | Ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushes, shocks, struts and mounts | Excess play, fluid leaks, worn bushes, sagging springs |
| Tyres and wheels | Tread depth, wear pattern, tyre age, pressures, wheel bearings | Edge wear, cupping, mismatched tyres, bearing noise |
| Alignment verification | Steering wheel centre and tyre wear pattern, objective test results where applicable | Vehicle pull, off-centre wheel, inside edge wear |
| Engine bay and cooling | Belts, hoses, visible leaks, coolant condition, radiator, fans | Oil or coolant leaks, cracked belts, overheating risk |
| Charging and starting | Battery health and charge rate, alternator output, starter operation | Weak battery, low charge rate, slow crank |
| Transmission and driveline | Fluid level and condition where accessible, leaks, mounts, CV joints and boots | Leaks, harsh shifts, torn boots, vibration |
| Exhaust and underbody | Exhaust condition, leaks, hangers, catalytic converter where visible, underbody damage | Exhaust leaks, broken mounts, rust, clearance issues |
| Lights, wipers and safety systems | Headlamps, indicators, brake and reverse lights, horn, wipers, washers, seatbelts | Inoperative lights, smeary wipers, frayed belts |
| Scan for fault codes | OBD scan where applicable | Stored fault codes requiring diagnosis |
| Road test | Braking performance, steering feel, noises, drivability | Brake shudder, steering wander, knocks, poor performance |
489 reviews
"Great service and communication. Have never had an issue with the team here, who are honest in all their work. Highly recommend!"
104 reviews
"Great service as usual. Won’t be taking my cars anywhere else for servicing."161 reviews
"Great family company, we have been using their services for our car for several years and am more then happy to recommend them to anyone! "75 reviews
"Great service, friendly staff. Chris and the team always deliver good work at a reasonable price."489 reviews
"Great service and communication. Have never had an issue with the team here, who are honest in all their work. Highly recommend!"489 reviews
"Great service as usual. Won’t be taking my cars anywhere else for servicing."
Pit inspections – Why a pre-inspection is a smart move
Avoid the hassle and let us get your car back on the road. Our Pre-DoT inspection finds issues that may not meet Department of Transport standards and lines up repairs quickly so you can move on with life. Unique regulations require comprehensive inspections for vehicles that have received a defect notice. A defect notice requires the specified issues to be resolved within a given time frame.
Pre-DoT inspection: $110.00
- If repairs completed with us from this inspection total $300 or more, we will waive your Pre-Dot inspection fee. We can fix items straight away with your approval, using quality parts and a lifetime workmanship warranty on our repairs.
- Once your vehicle is up to standard, we can coordinate its presentation to the pits for you.*You will need to pay for a Department of Transport (Pit) Inspection.
What we do and what we do not do
Autoplus WA is not an Authorised Inspection Station and we do not conduct the formal Department of Transport vehicle examination many people call a pit inspection. Pit inspections are performed by qualified mechanics authorised by the Department of Transport WA. We provide pre-DoT compliance checks and repair preparation so your car is ready for the official exam.
How this differs from a pre-purchase inspection
Pre-DoT inspections are designed to meet Department of Transport standards before the formal pits exam.
A pre-purchase inspection is broader and aimed at buyers – it includes a comprehensive condition assessment and can include checks such as oil and coolant analysis that are not required for DoT inspections. All pit inspections include a full vehicle check to government standards.
Where to find the formal Department of Transport inspection information
If you do need the official vehicle examination, visit the Department of Transport WA website to see locations, fees and booking steps. You can take your vehicle for a pit inspection regardless of your residential address due to new regulations.
We are happy to point you in the right direction and help you prepare.
You can also call our office for assistance with booking or for more information about the inspection process.
What to expect on the day
From drop-off to pick up, here’s how we keep things simple and predictable so you always know what’s next.
Easy drop-off from 7:30 am
Arrive Tuesday to Friday from 7:30 am. Use the early key drop if that suits your day.
Pre-inspection chat
Tell us any noises, warning lights or recent work. We note your concerns before we begin. If your vehicle is unregistered, you may need a movement permit to legally drive it to the inspection. This permit allows temporary movement for this specific purpose.
Full inspection with objective testing
Your vehicle goes on the hoist and through our checklist. Where useful we capture objective test results to confirm braking, suspension and alignment behaviour.
Clear quote call before any work
No work begins until you approve the plan and price. We explain priorities and answer questions in plain English.
Pickup by 5:30 pm or after-hours locker
Collect your car by 5:30 pm or use our secure after-hours locker. We will walk you through the report on pickup if you would like.
What you receive
Prioritised inspection report
A clear summary that separates safety critical items from maintenance and watch items, so you can plan with confidence.
Photos and any relevant test printout
We include photos and test printouts where helpful, so you can see what we found.
Pricing and repair options
If you want us to handle repairs, we will price options with quality parts and back our workmanship for life.
Book your inspection with Autoplus WA
Conveniently located in Midvale, our family-owned business has looked after Perth drivers for more than two decades, and many families stay with us for years.
Our experienced technicians use modern gear and regular training to test, not guess. We are open Tuesday to Friday, 7:30 am to 5:30 pm, with early key drop and after-hours pickup to suit your day.
We accept EFTPOS and major cards, and offer Zip, Humm and Afterpay. Repairs we complete are covered by our lifetime workmanship warranty, with complimentary roadside assistance on qualifying repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an inspection take?
Most inspections are completed the same day. If we find urgent items or you request repairs, we will discuss timing before any work starts.
Do you inspect EVs and hybrids
Yes. Our technicians are trained to work safely around high-voltage systems. Inspections focus on the same fundamentals plus EV-specific observations where appropriate. For manufacturer-only procedures we will advise next steps.
What payment options are available?
We accept EFTPOS and major credit cards. Ask about Zip, Humm or Afterpay if you prefer to pay over time.
Do you perform official pit inspections
No. We are not an Authorised Inspection Station and we do not conduct the formal Department of Transport vehicle examination. We provide thorough pre-purchase and safety inspections to help you decide and prepare.
What is the difference between a DoT vehicle examination and your inspection
A DoT vehicle examination is a compliance check required for licensing, defect clearance or certain circumstances set by the Department of Transport. Our inspections are independent condition assessments for safety and purchase decisions. We identify issues, prioritise them and quote repairs if you want us to proceed.
Why does my vehicle need a full inspection when it’s just run out of Rego?
D.O.T requires a full inspection to confirm the vehicle is roadworthy to be registered again, regardless of how long it was registered before. Addressing issues on a yellow sticker involves confirming repairs through a follow-up inspection.
I have been told I only have to repair the items listed on my yellow sticker/defect notice?
Unfortunately, this is incorrect. All yellow stickers require a full inspection, this is written on the lower part of the yellow sticker. Upon receiving a yellow sticker, a written report detailing the defects will be provided.
I bought my car from a dealership or privately as it is, why did I get a yellow sticker or fail the inspection now?
The dealer or previous owner may have purchased the vehicle like this and not been aware of the illegal items on the vehicle. Unless the dealer or purchaser of the vehicle was to carry out a Department Of Transport Inspection some illegal items may not come up.
For example, if someone fits a long-range fuel tank to a vehicle and never gets the modification permits and approval when fitting this would be classed as illegal in Western Australia. This is normally not found until the vehicle gets a yellow sticker or runs out of rego and then has to be inspected.
Why is it illegal to have an Engine Light, Warning Light or Airbag or Brake light on the dash?
These lights are fault lights to let you know there is a problem. When the light is on the safety feature is NOT working and, in an accident, could cause injury or death.
Why does my car need a modification permit?
Under D.O.T rules any item added or replaced with a non-factory item requires a permit. Including if your car came out with extractors from the factory, as soon as you fit aftermarket extractors you need a permit.
You can purchase one through the Department of Transport Website. Click here to view more info.
Why does my car need an immobiliser?, when I bought it it didn’t have one?
The fitment of an immobiliser falls upon the purchaser to organise and must be done when a car becomes unregistered or its a eastern states transfer. This is a Western Australia government law and is required on vehicles from 1991 onwards.
My car is a repairable write-off, what do I need to do to have it licensed?
Once you have finished the repairs the vehicle must first be examined at a WOVA station, please go to this link to ensure you have carried out all the required steps before presenting the vehicle for inspection at a Department of Transport Inspection Station as the vehicle can not be passed with out the required WOVA forms.
What is the longest extension I have on my yellow sticker?
To obtain an extension you must have a Department Of Transport Inspection carried out. You can only get an extension if there is nothing dangerous on your vehicle for example Bald tyres.
Once inspected D.O.T allow a max of 2 weeks for 1st extension, 2 weeks for 2nd extension and 1 week for 3rd extension. There are sometimes exceptions to the rule like waiting for engineering approval from DOT. All extensions require the vehicle to have a Full Inspection first. The inspection does not guarantee D.O.T will grant you an extension.