Pink Slip Inspection Guide: What’s Checked and Why? 

Ever wondered what really happens during a pink slip inspection?
Whether you're a first-timer or just need a refresher, this guide breaks down exactly what's checked and why it matters. Read on to become a pink slip pro!

Why the Fuss About Pink Slips?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's talk about why these inspections are so important. In NSW, a pink slip is basically your car's way of saying, "Hey, I'm safe to be on the road!"

It's a legal requirement to ensure that all vehicles meet minimum safety standards, keeping you and everyone else on the road safe. Think of it as a check-up for your car, making sure everything is in top shape. When you know how to check a used car properly, these inspections become even more valuable in your car-buying journey.
Pink Slip Inspection
Engine and Driveline

Under the Bonnet: Engine and Driveline

First up, the inspector will pop the bonnet and take a look at your engine and driveline. They'll be checking for any leaks, unusual noises, and making sure everything is running smoothly. These are crucial car checks before buying any second-hand vehicle.

They'll also check your exhaust system for excessive emissions and any signs of damage. Understanding these checks helps you know before making a purchase.

Tyres and Brakes: The Dynamic Duo

Then, your tyres will get a thorough inspection, checking for tread depth, wear patterns, and any damage. Your brakes will also be put to the test, checking for responsiveness, effectiveness, and any signs of wear and tear.
Tyres and Brakes Inspection
Steering and Suspension

Steering and Suspension: Keeping You in Control

Next up, it's time for a closer look at your steering and suspension. The inspector will check for any excessive play in the steering wheel, as well as any signs of wear or damage in your suspension components. This is to ensure your car handles properly and responds well to your steering inputs.

Lights and Electrics: Shining Bright

It's now time for the inspector to check all your lights – headlights, taillights, indicators, brake lights, the whole lot. They'll also check your windscreen wipers and washers to make sure they're working effectively.
Lights, Headlights, Taillights
Car Body and Structure

Body and Structure: Holding it all Together

The inspector will give your car a good once-over, checking for any signs of rust, damage, or modifications that could compromise its structural integrity. They'll also check your seatbelts, mirrors, and windows to make sure everything is in good working order.

The Inside Story: Interior Check

Lastly, the inspector will take a peek inside your car. They'll check your seats, seatbelts, and any child restraints to make sure they're properly fitted and in good condition. They'll also check your horn and speedometer to make sure they're functioning correctly.
Car Interior Check and Inspection
Pink Slip Validated

Pink Slip Passed? Congratulations!

If your car passes the inspection, you'll receive your pink slip, which is valid for a certain period depending on the age of your vehicle. You'll need this slip to renew your registration.

And what happens if your car fails? Don't worry! The inspector will give you a list of the things that need to be fixed. You'll have time to get those repairs done and then have your car re-inspected.
Pink Slip Worries? Northside Autohaus Can Help!

Feeling more confident about your upcoming pink slip inspection? We hope so! But if you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to the team at Northside Autohaus. Whether you need a pre-inspection check, help with repairs, or just some expert advice on car checks before buying your next vehicle, we're here to assist you.

What our customers say about us

Denise Goldhahn profile picture
Denise Goldhahn
20:04 11 Feb 26
I honestly can’t recommend North Side Autohaus Brookvale highly enough. The service is absolutely amazing, professional, honest, and genuinely customer-focused from start to finish.

The team is knowledgeable, friendly, and take the time to explain everything clearly without any pressure. You can tell they really care about doing the job properly. Their pricing is also very competitive, which makes the whole experience even better.

This is now the only place I’ll be taking my car for any servicing or repairs. Great team, great service, and great value. Highly recommend!
Arthur Roosevelt profile picture
Arthur Roosevelt
22:45 02 Nov 25
I recently took my 2014 VW Golf here for a timing belt replacement and some other minor service work. Their price was very competitive, and Romeo's communication was great. Very satisfied with their work, and as an unexpected bonus they thoroughly cleaned and washed my car afterwards. Would definitely recommend these guys.
Simon D profile picture
Simon D
14:05 16 Jul 25
Chose them as Audi VW specialists as they market them selves this way to create a niche. They did run diagnostics and did the job seemingly well, no blow back yet. The problem is one of the operators attitude. It was unprofessional and unappealing. They claimed my car would be ready at 11:30am, when i arrived he abruptly told me it’s not ready, i asked when. To which he replied when its done! They finished at 12pm and test drove for 15 mins which seemed like forever. I asked when is my car coming back after 15 mins of the car disappearing. He again was abrupt and used a gruff tone stating he’s gone for a test drive and he’ll back when he’s done. It was really unfortunate experience, a rude demeanour, grunting and lack of empathy. I won’t tolerate bad attitudes when i’m the customer paying good $ doesn’t matter if the work is reliable. 1st and last time.
Matt Savage profile picture
Matt Savage
10:58 16 Jul 25
I take all my cars to Jeff and Romeo as they high standard of work and do best job honestly with fair prices. Matt
Simon Von-Limont profile picture
Simon Von-Limont
09:54 30 Apr 25
Noemi Bull profile picture
Noemi Bull
03:52 25 Mar 24
Great service
Joel Phillips profile picture
Joel Phillips
07:10 03 Jan 24
Jeff was incredible to deal with. Gave us a loan car at a time I was in desperate need. Extremely good service.
Paula Brennan profile picture
Paula Brennan
01:42 24 Jul 23
Amazing team! Great mechanics and honest with pricing and outcomes! So good
Yolanda Bensdorp profile picture
Yolanda Bensdorp
22:20 26 Jun 23
Romeo and his team was very professional and helpful and did a great job on my car
Michael Christie profile picture
Michael Christie
23:43 22 Jun 23
Friendly and thorough.
Nicola Baker profile picture
Nicola Baker
23:17 15 Nov 22
Could not be happier with Northside Autohaus. From my fist point of call speaking with Romeo, he was quick to fit me in as my Audi Q5 was leaking adblue liquid and needed urgent attention. When arriving at Autohause, Romeo was there to greet my with kindness and respect. He called as soon as they had found the problem and made recommendations with openness and honesty on costings and timelines.
Fantastic customer service all the way through to the end. I will definitely be visiting Northside Autohaus for all my service and repairs from now on. Highly recommend Autohaus.
Nicola
Vlado Markovic profile picture
Vlado Markovic
09:41 18 Oct 22
Romeo and the team serviced my Audi A8 to my great satisfaction. This was second time I serviced my car here and I am as happy as I was first time. Quality work and friendly service that is hard to find these days. Would like to recommend Northside Autohaus to any Audi, BMW or VW owner.
Martin Andrew profile picture
Martin Andrew
01:02 27 Aug 22
This week was our second annual service at Northside Autohaus, last year our near 10yr Golf TSI required some semi major servicing with water pump, belts, engine mounts etc (as to be expected with age and kms on the clock), thankfully this year a simple service, wheel balance and tyre rotation to ensure even wear and fuel efficiency, along a quick repair to the rear window washer water line which had broken in the section between the car body and tailgate (another semi common VW fault).

Romeo was helpful as always to discuss any issues or concerns with the vehicle, reach out and call to confirm once the team had inspected the vehicle and what they found, providing an accurate quote and ensuring the vehicle was ready that afternoon (with a clean and vacuum also completed!). Thanks Northside Autohaus for the great service.
Kerem Koş profile picture
Kerem Koş
02:50 25 Mar 22
My Audi Q7 had a sticky and complicated problem. Jeff and his team were able to locate the root cause and fix it. The team was helpful and friendly. I am happy with the service and highly recommend them.
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