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Appraised used cars

An AA Appraised used car has received a mechanical check that gives an overall evaluation of the vehicle.

What is an AA Appraised Used Car?

An AA Appraised Used Car is a vehicle which has been looked over by the AA with an entry level 43-point mechanical check which focuses on the mechanical and safety aspects of the car, giving a brief overall evaluation of the vehicle. Importantly, it is valid only for two months (or 5,000km) from the day of the appraisal date.

This limited inspection gives dealers assurance that the vehicle meets an expected standard to be on their yard and gives buyers assurance it has been independently assessed by us before it has been made available for sale.

One of the key benefits is the all-important road test, which may well be the first time an imported vehicle has been driven by someone, other than the dealer, on New Zealand roads. The road test helps to identify leaks such as coolant and oil leaks. It also assesses unusual noises, the drive operation and allows the car to run at a normal operating temperature.

Compliance reassurance

The road test also offers reassurance that the vehicle has been reassembled correctly if it is a used import and has been through a compliance shop. During this process, interior trims and coverings are removed for a vehicle’s structural inspection. Brakes are also disassembled as part of the compliance process.

Here are some of the checks conducted by the AA on an Appraised Used Car:

Brake System (Visual, External Only)

  • Brakes
  • Brakes - Under Body

Cooling System

  • Radiator
  • Water Pump (Where Visible)

Electric Accessories / Lamps

  • Lamps

Electrical

  • Battery
  • Horn

Engine Ancillaries

  • Fuel System
  • Lubricants (Engine/Trans)
  • Engine
  • Air Filter

Engine Audible Noises

  • Engine Noise

External Items

  • Windscreen Washer
  • Windscreen Wiper
  • Rear View Mirror
  • Ancillary Items

Fuel System

  • Fuel Filler

Interior

  • Tools and Accessories

Road Test

  • Air Conditioning
  • Engine Test
  • Exhaust Test
  • Foot Brake Test
  • Transmission Test
  • Handbrake Test
  • Steering Test

Suspension

  • Suspension
  • Wheels
  • Hubs

Tyres

  • Tyres

Underside

  • CV Joints
  • Engine
  • Exhaust
  • Axle
  • Structure
  • Transmission
  • Differential
  • Driveshaft
  • Steering - Under Body

Get extra confidence when choosing your next car

Mechanical and safety defects are highlighted in the report, so you'll have a better idea of the car's mechanical state. You'll find these appraisals on cars for sale at any AA Preferred Dealer.

An AA Preferred Dealer is the best place to start looking for a used car.

We recommend that anyone looking to buy a used car also gets an AA Pre Purchase Inspection - a comprehensive 100+ point check, which provides buyers with an overview of recommended repairs and any potential WoF issues.