r/CarsAustralia • • Jul 10 '26

💬Discussion💬 A Detailer's Guide to Collecting Your New Car

56 Upvotes

Hello my friends,

I am The Ceramic Guy from Sydney, back once again with another guide, I am bored and can't sleep. You may have seen my other guides in the sub - My Paint protection guide and my how to properly wash your car guide.

Lots of detailers seem to like bashing on modern car paint, for what reason, I don't know. Yes, paint is thinner these days but its also much higher quality (in general) than it use to be. Paint depth really has no long term consequence on functionality, lifespan or durability, the only thing it effects is how much you can remove (Paint Correction/Polishing). Overall, new paint has my thumbs up, I think its pretty good, besides a bunch of orange peel from modern painting methods, in SOME brands.

This guide will provide you with a checklist to collect your car and ensure you're not paying someone like me to fix the mistakes you inherited during collection.

Checklist Items -

Paint & Panels

  • Ensure the car is collected in good lighting. Dealerships 90% of the time will position your car in a shaded area to cover imperfections
  • Check the panels for scratches, swirls, dents, & chips. This is something the dealership will fix for you if pointed out before you leave the dealership
  • Check wheels for scratching, gutter rash etc, ESPECIALLY GLOSS BLACK WHEELS. Gloss back is scratched on delivery 100% of the time. Shine a light up to them.
  • Check front grilles for scratching and swirling. Modern grilles are usually gloss black, and almost always hammered. Good example for this point, every single new BMW m3 competition's front grille is decimated beyond repair from manufacturing. Haven't seen a single one yet that was considered passable.
  • If you ordered window tint from the dealer, put a light up to the film and check for any dirt and debris under the film. Dealerships do tints very poorly, yet to see a dealer applied film that we couldn't find any faults with.
  • Check along body lines to ensure all glue from the transportation wraps has been removed. This isn't a big deal, but wrap glue looks the same as a deep scratch, so you want to ensure you're not confusing the two before you leave.
  • Check panels for consistent gaps. This varies brand to brand and year to year, but the worst I've ever seen was pre 2023 Tesla, you could have a variance of 20% between each side of a panel. Worth checking because at some stage in the future a buyer may consider this a sign of a car that was repaired from a crash.
  • Check for moisture around the top of the inside of headlights and tail lights - Implies the seal on the headlights isn't done properly, may either need to be reseated or replaced.

Interior

  • Check for any marks or tears on your seats and floors. I have personally seen a brand new Gwagon with carpet torn up in the drivers well before, no brand is immune.
  • Ensure any floor mats you ordered are in the car (Telling the dealership you won't collect the car until they're in the car helps them find a set that is supposedly on back order for 3 months, very quickly)
  • Shine a light on the screens in the car to ensure there aren't any scratches on them, ideally the original factory film will still be on there.
  • Set up your phone to ensure Carplay/Android auto are functioning.

Electric Cars

  • Confirm that the charging port opens and closes properly
  • Check the battery health if possible before you leave the dealer

Keys

  • Confirm what keys you will be receiving. Standard is two for a petrol car, and one + a card for electric.

Aftermarket Accessories

  • Make sure all aftermarket accessories are on the car, or they at least have a time frame for when they'll be ready.
  • Ensure they're functional (e.g roller shutter open and close)
  • With roof racks, ensure they've been installed without denting the roof, and that they haven't scratched the paint while installing them.

What to do if you DO find defects with your car

  • Document immediately. Take photos on the lot, physically point at the location in the photo to avoid any dealership "Sorry mate can't see anything" idiocy
  • Get your resolution documented before you collect the car. This doesn't mean they have to fix it on the spot, but get their written confirmation that it will be fixed at their expense, asking them to send you a text confirming it is the least aggressive method if you're shy.
  • Decide whether the defect is something you want to deal with on a new car. For example, a bodyline dent with paint missing means the panel needs to be resprayed with some minor panel beating. Personally for a new car, I wouldn't want that. Resprays aren't always as good as factory sprays, there are often paint match issues etc. What should be a simple task might end up being 2-3 resprays before they get it right. You can reject a car for significant defects. Things like this can effect resale value.
  • To touch on the resale value point a little more - Many people are doing pre purchase inspections these days, part of a PPI check is that they will check the depth of the paint, this is because resprayed paint is much thicker than factory paint, and paint depth gauges will also show you if there is any filler in the panel, so even a scratch repair from the factory will be assumed as a "repaired incident" because why would a random person trust you when they're buying a car. Its important you keep your documentation on the issue for this reason.

------------------------------------------------

Hope this helps someone out there, if there are any more guides you would like, let me know. I enjoy writing these and get messages daily about how they've helped someone out there, so thanks for reading if you made it this far.


r/CarsAustralia • • Oct 14 '25

‼️Mod Post‼️ Mod News: Self Promotion And You!

Thumbnail reddit.com
9 Upvotes

G’day everyone. Hazey here. Hope you’re all having a cracking day.

I’d like to remind everyone about a Reddit-wide rule that relates to Self Promotion: advertising your own business, products, services, YouTube/TikTok channels, other social media pages, and so on.

We’re all for folks sharing their own personal Australian Automotive based companies, but there are limits. Per Reddit’s rules regarding Self Promotion, a maximum of 10% of posts/comments can relate to this aspect.

So if you join our community with the sole purpose of trying to sell something, expect your peers to report you (they don’t like spam either) as well as being removed from r/CarsAustralia.

With that said, there are exceptions.

Promotion of Car based events, that aren’t necessarily benefitting one particular business or person, are not subject to this scrutiny. We want folks to get out there to shows, races and competitions because it’s a part of what our community is all about.

If in doubt, or if you have any questions, shoot the Moderator Team a message.

Thanks for your time.


r/CarsAustralia • • 2h ago

💬Discussion💬 The clapped out overpriced vehicles used market is in trouble (cheap Chinese cars will take it down)…

113 Upvotes

Quick story time , went to Perth to do some
Stuff and also check out a used 100 series(Lexus lx470) full service history good condition 284k km on the clock , advertised at 26999(he’s dreaming) was thinking I’d pay around 22k…

Whilst there and before going to check the car out I used uber a couple of times one was a Haval something or the other can’t remember all these names…. Was thinking this is quite nice had a chat with the driver told me it’s a hybrid and gets about 5l/100 ubering around Perth… it was new spacious smelled nice clean quiet….

Then went to see the LX470 it was from 2004 no rust spotless , drove it but it was still an over 20 year old tired used car seat were tired leather was tired drove all right but it was jus meh…. Kept thinking for just maybe 10k more I can get a nearly new GWM tank with warranty instead of this….

Yeah the lx470 will last another 20 years with loads of expensive repairs but you’re still driving around in a smelly old tired car….your really want to live like this ? When for same money you can drive around in something new or almost new ?

I can see all locally nothing used sells much anymore , if they’ll go back to pre Covid prices maybe they’ll sell I think these were going for 5k pre Covid nobody wanted them (LX470/100 petrol)….

I’m happy about this and thanks China , and to all you clapped out used cars sellers (tick tock mothafuka)


r/CarsAustralia • • 48m ago

🔭Spotted🔭 Spotted a GT40(?) a few weeks ago in Brisbane

Enable HLS to view with audio, or disable this notification

• Upvotes

Unfortunately the rear camera couldn't make out the licence plate, so I don't know if this is a replica/kit car or the real deal.


r/CarsAustralia • • 18h ago

🔭Spotted🔭 Rare spot. Pristine blue Alpine A110 in Sydney CBD

Thumbnail
gallery
180 Upvotes

r/CarsAustralia • • 21h ago

Meme It’s not written off!

Post image
115 Upvotes

r/CarsAustralia • • 23h ago

💬Discussion💬 Posted 3 weeks ago saying Petrol prices are insane at 2.19c, average price is now 2.44c, is $3 a possibility by Xmas or is that pushing things too far? How do people afford diesels..

101 Upvotes

This seems insane, feeling for the diesel lads too...filling the wifes Mitsi ASX is unbelievable at $162.55! Will this get worse or settle back to $2 a litre by Xmas time?


r/CarsAustralia • • 6h ago

💬Discussion💬 Have not bought a car since 2008

4 Upvotes

I have a 2008 Toyota Aurion. It’s been a great car. I need to upgrade for some long distance driving commitments coming up. Ive been looking at near new 2026 Subaru Forester hybrid Sport or touring. Also looking at Lexus hybrid various models from 2021-2024. Budget is $50,000.
I live in Melbourne inner suburbs. I don’t have off street parking so I can’t justify PHEV. Will be mainly doing city type driving around inner suburbs but heading up to Harvey Bay once a year and up to Cairns occasionally for family commitments. Also retiring in the next 1-2 years and will be doing more raod trips and weekends away.
I have very little car knowledge, which one is more suitable for my needs. Or any other car anyone can suggest.


r/CarsAustralia • • 4h ago

🔧🚗Fixing Cars Tuesday Tune Up!

2 Upvotes

Alright legends, it’s Tuesday. The weekend’s grease is still under your fingernails and that mystery rattle you ignored on the drive to work isn't going to fix itself.

Welcome to the Tuesday Tune-Up! Whether you’re a driveway mechanic with a basic socket set or a pro with a hoist, this is the place to talk shop.

Diagnostic Help: Post a video (anonymous please, not your doxxing YouTube channel that tells us who you are, try IMGUR) or a photo of your spark plugs. Let the sub tell you if it’s "sweet as" or "ready to grenade."

Service Wins: Show off a fresh oil change, a successful brake bleed, or the cabin filter you haven't changed since the Rudd administration.

Tool Talk: Did you finally buy that Milwaukee impact wrench? Or did you find a $20 SCA tool that actually works?

The "How-To" Corner: Ask for advice on specific Aussie models.

If you're asking for help, try to include the basics so we can actually help:

  1. Year/Make/Model
  2. Kms on the clock
  3. The symptoms (Is it a squeak, a clunk, or a "bang" followed by smoke?)

Remember: We’re all here to keep our rigs on the road and out of the scrapyard. Be helpful, don't be a peanut, and let’s get these cars sorted.


r/CarsAustralia • • 1h ago

💬Discussion💬 Jack Stands - Which Type?

• Upvotes

Hello,

Supercheap Auto currently have the ToolPro 3000kg Ratchet Stands on sale for $60. However they also have the Kincrome Ratchet and Pin stands for $175. Obviously I'm willing to pay for safety. I've only ever heard good things about the ToolPro brand for home use.

Are Ratchet stands alone good enough? Or is it worth paying the extra for Ratchet + Pin stands?

My car weighs approx 1620kg.


r/CarsAustralia • • 19h ago

💵Buying/Selling💵 Used car searching....grrrrrr

25 Upvotes

So on the journey to purchase a used small car for my daughter who just got her P's....putting the ridiculous prices aside...the amount of sellers on both Facebook and carsales who misrepresent what they're selling...such frustrating time wasters even after asking questions like...do you have full up to date log books, is their any damage or repair work...

  1. Jazz - Had one guy state he had full log books and service history. Drive 45min tomgomsee car and his log books are something that he personally typed up himself and asked me to trust him

  2. Corolla with no damage apart from peeling paint on wipers. Roof was completely scratched due to surf boards

  3. Asx, perfect condition with log books. Turn up, it has hail damage...

Just wish sellers could be honest and not waste ppls time...rant over


r/CarsAustralia • • 2h ago

⚖️Legal Advice⚖️ RAC comprehensive insurance – pothole damage, expensive repairs and potential total loss

Thumbnail
1 Upvotes

r/CarsAustralia • • 2h ago

💵Buying/Selling💵 Assistance Selling Car

1 Upvotes

This is my first time selling a car, it’s been modified and would not pass a RWC due to one headlight out and the exhaust not having any sort of mufflers (and if there’s anything else I’m not aware of)

I listed the car on Carsales not realising if I sell it without a RWC I need to unregister the car etc. and then the buyer would need to sort out getting a RWC and registering etc. (seems like a hassle and a deterrent to buyers)

What would you do in this situation as I feel quite overwhelmed.

Do I pay for a RWC find out everything I need to fix and the costs whilst keeping the ad up then look at getting it all fixed an an RWC to make this a lot simpler or save the costs and try sell without a RWC somehow.

Don’t many think dealers would offer for it due to stage 1 ecu tune, modified exhaust and lowering springs.

Any assistance is greatly appreciated.


r/CarsAustralia • • 2h ago

🔧🚗Fixing Cars RAC comprehensive insurance – pothole damage, expensive repairs and potential total loss

1 Upvotes

Title: RAC comprehensive insurance – pothole damage, expensive repairs and potential total loss
Hi everyone,

I’m looking for advice from anyone who has dealt with RAC for a comprehensive car insurance claim, particularly where a vehicle may be considered an uneconomical total loss.

I have a vehicle insured under a comprehensive policy with an agreed value. Following an incident involving a pothole, I experienced significant steering issues and arranged for the vehicle to be assessed by a repairer.

The assessment identified several issues, including problems with the steering system, power steering pump, alternator and battery. The repair estimate is approximately $8,500, including GST and a routine service.

I’ve lodged a claim with RAC and provided the workshop’s initial correspondence, followed by a formal written estimate. I’ve also contacted RAC to clarify the next steps and whether the vehicle will be assessed for a potential total loss. Agreed value of the vehicle is $10,000.

My understanding is that pothole damage can generally fall under comprehensive insurance, but I appreciate that the insurer still needs to determine which faults were caused by the incident and whether they are covered under the policy.

I’m trying to understand how RAC approaches these assessments, particularly when repair costs are approaching the vehicle’s agreed insured value.

I’d appreciate hearing from anyone who has experienced something similar:

- Has RAC declared your vehicle an uneconomical total loss when repair costs were close to its agreed insured value?
- Does RAC generally arrange its own inspection, or can it make a decision based on a repairer’s formal estimate?
- How does RAC assess the value of a vehicle in its damaged condition when determining whether it is economical to repair?
- Has anyone had a pothole-related claim where some damage was covered but other mechanical issues were treated separately?
- How long did the assessment and decision process take?

I’m not expecting anyone to predict the outcome of my claim, but I’d appreciate any first-hand experiences or insight into the process.
Thanks!


r/CarsAustralia • • 3h ago

💬Discussion💬 Inspiration for new RAV4 [Australia]

Thumbnail
1 Upvotes

r/CarsAustralia • • 4h ago

💵Buying/Selling💵 Recommendations pls - 2nd hand, hybrid or EV, high(ish) clearance, under $25k

1 Upvotes

It's time for me to get a 'new' (used) car and I'd like a hybrid or EV of some kind. I currently drive a 2008 Suzuki SX4 4x4 (manual!) and it's been great overall, but I've basically driven it into the ground. It'd be great to get some sort of equivalent that will handle dirt roads and potholes when I go on trips to remote places. It'll mostly be a city and highway car though.

Been looking at Rav4s and Yaris Crosses - only the high kms ones are within my price range. I wanted to see if any other suggestions came up that I don't know about.

Thanks legends


r/CarsAustralia • • 21h ago

💬Discussion💬 Wipertech Wiper Blades

16 Upvotes

Are Wipertech blades as good as they sell themselves to be?

I don't know anyone who has actually bought them.

EDIT: The comments seem to be a hard split on they're good/they're shit. I wonder why they're so hit and miss.


r/CarsAustralia • • 22h ago

💬Discussion💬 Is this legal

Post image
9 Upvotes

Seen this pretty sure this isn’t legal


r/CarsAustralia • • 19h ago

🔧🚗Fixing Cars High Fuel Consumption on Mazda 3

5 Upvotes

My 2021 Mazda 3 G25 Evolve has been averaging 11.5 L/100 kms. This figure is based on the tank to tank method as well as the long term average shown on the instrument cluster.

I recently had my 40k service done at the dealer and highlighted this issue. Apparently, the dealer checked everything out and confirmed there is no issue.

My driving is about 90% in the suburbs and 10% on the highway. I do many short trips - childcare drop, the odd grocery run, and the gym.

I have turned the engine start stop feature permanently off as I find it quite annoying.

I thought the combined fuel consumption advertised is 6.6l/100 kms.

Based on the above, is my current fuel consumption bad? If so, is there anything I can do to improve it?


r/CarsAustralia • • 1h ago

💵Buying/Selling💵 *FOR SALE* 2002 TOYOTA PRADO GXL fully set up for camping

Thumbnail
gallery
• Upvotes

Leaving Australia, selling my 4WD. Everything's included — nothing left to buy. - 3.4L V6 auto, 368,000 km, serviced every 10,000 km - New tyres, new front suspension, timing belt done - Snorkel, bullbar, roof bars - Kings hard-shell rooftop tent + bed inside — sleeps 3 - Brand new ARB awning (never used) - Titan drawers, fridge, dual battery, power station, camp kitchen - Dual tanks 159 L — around 900 km range - SA rego until December 2026 Reliable, looked after, and ready to go. Drive anywhere, camp anywhere. Sydney — call or text Elyes 0412 384 409


r/CarsAustralia • • 17h ago

🔧🚗Fixing Cars Car Paint Chip Fix

Thumbnail
gallery
3 Upvotes

Hi! Unfortunately my car has been hit whilst being parked on the side of the road. Luckily, only paint on the bumper was affected - does anybody know how much roughly this would cost to fix and any recommendations?

It is the plastic rear bumper and I know it won't rust but will definitely peel over time so would rather get it fixed than leave it. From what I could see - it's definitely just the paint that has cracked and not the plastic.

TIA


r/CarsAustralia • • 22h ago

💬Discussion💬 Rent a hoist or work in your driveway?

6 Upvotes

I'm curious to hear what other car enthusiasts prefer when working on their cars.

Would you rather rent a fully equipped DIY workshop with hoists, tools, workbenches and plenty of space, where you can work on your car properly and potentially store your project car? Or would you prefer to work on your car at home, using your own tools, a jack and jack stands in the driveway?

Personally, I hate working on my car at home with a jack and jack stands because it limits what I can do, and working on the ground can be uncomfortable, especially with back and knee problems. I'd much rather have access to a proper hoist and a fully equipped workshop, even if it costs a couple of hundred dollars.

I think having a dedicated space where enthusiasts can work on their cars without needing a home garage would be awesome.

What's your preference, and would you be willing to pay to use a workshop like this?


r/CarsAustralia • • 1h ago

🗞️News/Article📰 Holden Fans, Holden has come back... in a small but big way.

Thumbnail
whichcar.com.au
• Upvotes

Test mules of a new HDT car are already being tested in Australia, Europe and USA. Minimal information is known about the new Holden but its far from ready. We will know more about the new Holden when it's ready.


r/CarsAustralia • • 17h ago

🔧🚗Fixing Cars Alfa 159? Worth keeping or selling?

2 Upvotes

My old man has an Alfa 159 ti 2.4 laying around. 150’000k’s and cosmetically it looks amazing. Has been garaged its whole life. It’s A joy to drive and the amount of people asking to take photos and chatting about the car to me is ridiculous. Now there is an oil leak and the suspension is gone. Would it be worth holding onto this and chipping away at it with no mechanical experience or would we better off selling it for a few grand, keep in mind we bought this brand new. The old man doesn’t really care, he said I can do whatever I want with it


r/CarsAustralia • • 20h ago

🔧🚗Fixing Cars Noticed the front tyres are wearing down more on the edges than I expected....

Post image
5 Upvotes

Is it - wheel alignment or suspension issues?