Buy your next car with total confidence.
From thorough visual inspections to expert negotiation, we provide the hands-on support you need to make a smart, stress-free purchase.
We come to you
Pre-purchase visual inspections
Car history and fraud checks
Car advice and buyer advocacy
Dealer and vendor negotiations
Meet James, your local car buyer’s advocate.
Hey there I’m James, a Bayside local with a lifelong passion for all things automotive. Having worked across multiple facets of the car industry; from the workshop floor at local garages to the sales desks of major dealerships, I’ve seen first-hand exactly how this business operates. I now hope to bring that insider knowledge directly to your side of the table.
I founded Patina Auto to help everyday buyers navigate an increasingly frustrating and dishonest car market. In Victoria alone, far too many people fall victim to high-pressure sales tactics or end up buying vehicles with hidden, costly defects. My goal is to level the playing field. By offering honest, transparent, and expert advocacy, I’m here to ensure you make a fully informed decision, avoid the lemons, and protect your hard-earned money.
I’m happy to assist with all brands of vehicles. However, I am able provide specialised advice for classic cars & European vehicles.
0404 225 764
Our Services
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Looking for your next car but not sure where to start? Let’s find your perfect match.
If you need a vehicle but aren't sure which makes or models fit your lifestyle and budget, we offer unbiased, straightforward advice. From reliable daily drivers, safe first cars to fun weekend toys, We’ll help you cut through the marketing noise and pinpoint the vehicles that offer the best value, comfort and dependability. We offer a free 45-minute no-obligation consultation on the phone or over a coffee.
If you would like further ongoing tailored support during your search, we are happy to provide a concierge service. Please get in touch to discuss.
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Know exactly what you're buying before you hand over a deposit.
We come directly to the vehicle, whether it's at a private seller's home or a dealership to conduct a comprehensive visual inspection covering exterior damage, interior wear, under-the-hood checks, and a full OBD2 electronic diagnostic scan to uncover hidden fault codes. We translate the car's condition into an all-inclusive report with plain, easy-to-understand language so you can make a confident decision without needing to be a gearhead.
This service includes a full complimentary vehicle history check. including a PPSR, VIN lookup and registration search to identify any discrepancies.
Turnaround time: within 48hrs of inspection.
*Inspections located outside of the greater Melbourne area may incur an additional call-out fee.
*For multiple vehicle inspections, please get in touch for discounted pricing.
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We create a full history report on the vehicle including PPSR, VIN search, registration check along with a number of back-end databases to identify any discrepancies and fraud throughout the vehicle’s history. For imported vehicles we perform a global check on previous registrations and issued certificates.
At the end of the report we provide some tailored advice to this particular vehicle and offer a number of recommendations regarding what to look out for.
This service is complimentary in our pre-purchase visual inspection.
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Leave the haggling to someone who knows the market.
Found a car you love but hate the idea of negotiating? We step in on your behalf. Dealing directly with the vendors and dealership salespeople, our goal is simple: to protect your interests, eliminate the stress, and secure the absolute best price and terms for your new vehicle. We offer a flat fee structure of $349.00 per vehicle, no matter the negotiated price.
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If you are time-poor or simply dread the car-buying process, let us handle the entire journey from start to finish.
After pinpointing the ideal vehicle for your lifestyle, we hit the market and do all the heavy lifting for you. From scanning the market and vetting ads to conducting on-site inspections and background checks, we manage every detail. Finally, we negotiate the absolute best price on your behalf.
The result is a completely hands-off, stress-free experience, letting you skip the high-pressure sales tactics and simply take the keys to a great new car.
Please get in touch to discuss.
Download our free car buyer checklist.
Heading out to look at a car? Don't go unprepared. Download this free, step-by-step checklist to help you spot costly hidden defects and avoid buying a lemon.