8 things you need to know when buying used cars for sale in Johannesburg

1. When is the best time to buy a used car?

“It makes absolutely no difference when you buy a used car. New car prices vary based on the time of year, but we don’t see the same with used cars.” said Valentina.

Related: First-time car buyer? What you need to know

 

2. How many kilometres is too high when purchasing a used car?

“It depends on what your budget is, some budgets they don't have a choice about the Kilometers. The good news is high mileage doesn't necessarily mean that the condition is bad. I’ve seen cars with high mileage that are in better condition than others with low mileage. 

The important factor is the condition of the car. You have to check the condition of the car.” 

 

3. Do you recommend that customers check the service history of a vehicle first?

“Correct. Check, check and check the condition of the vehicle before making a decision."

 

4. Is mileage more important than age, or is age more important than mileage when purchasing a used car?

“Mmm, I would say they both go together. It really does come down to condition, not age or mileage.”

 

5. How can a customer check if a car is in good condition? What are your top tips?

“Check the service history, check around the vehicle and check how the car's been treated.

Look at the seats, look at the carpet, look at the boot, check the engine. 

If a vehicle has a poor service history it means the previous owner probably hasn’t invested the money into other repairs either.” 

6. Is it true that it’s cheaper to buy a car with cash?

“It depends on the dealer. In my dealership yes absolutely, it is correct.

When you pay with cash, I give a discount. It does however, depend on the dealer, it is different everywhere but with me, it’s cheaper.” 

 

7. What should a customer look for when they're test-driving a car?

“Don’t listen to music during the test drive, listen to the engine. 

Don’t drive like Miss Daisy, drive (safely) like a racing driver. You can’t really feel the car when you just drive slowly. Push the car so you can see how it does.” 

 

8. What are your final tips for anyone looking to buy a used car in Johannesburg?

“Check that the dealership you are purchasing from is reputable.

Secondly, you need to check the car itself. You need to go out, take the car on a test drive so you can feel if you like the car. You need to drive that car, you need to make sure the car is good.” 

If you want to find out more about Valentina's dealership, check out her stock right here on our site under used cars for sale.

 

Recommended next:

How to apply for car finance at the dealership

Can you call off a sale if you’ve already signed the paperwork?

What information do customers need when enquiring about a car for sale?