How is buying a used car in the Free State different from other provinces?
It's not all that different - however, car prices in the Free State are generally still lower than cars in the Western Cape, for example, but on par with Gauteng. Buying a car from central SA or anywhere away from the coast also means that you won't have an issue with rust. Bear in mind that you may also pay more in Bloemfontein than in a smaller town like Bethlehem, Bothaville, or Kroonstad. It's not a hard-and-fast rule, but usually, cars are more affordable in places where the cost of living is also lower, so don't be afraid to go car-hunting in smaller Free State towns.
How to search for cars in the Free State
AutoTrader allows you to filter by province, so if you select the Free State, you will only be shown listings in the Free State. Just click on the location button to find and select your province from the dropdown menu. You can also select search for only used cars, search by colour, body shape, mileage, fuel type, and more.
Click here to view all used cars for sale in the Free State, on AutoTrader
Top tips for buying used cars - in all provinces
1. Stick to your budget
Car costs involve more than monthly repayments. You also have to factor in fuel and insurance costs. Even if you buy an extended warranty/service plan, remember that wear-and-tear items like brake pads are usually not included.
Trading in? Find out what your car is worth first. Click here to get a free valuation for your car's trade value.
How much can I afford each month? Find out here by using our car finance calculator.
2. Do your research
By research, we mean the car in question as well as the dealership. Google is your friend! You should be able to find some reviews online of the dealership in question. Social media platforms such as Facebook may also be of help. You can also check the dealership's Facebook page and find out from friends and family which dealerships have given them good service in the past even before you start looking.
3. Don't get pressured into a deal if you don't feel comfortable
If the salesperson seems just a little too eager, and it all just doesn't feel right, don't feel bad if you decide to go home and sleep on it or if you call the whole thing off. Buying a car is a massive decision and a serious commitment. If you buy a lemon, you're either going to be stuck with this costly mistake, it or you will sell it at a loss.
4. Walk away from cars with no service history
Or, if it's patchy, don't take the risk. If vehicles have an RMI-approved dealership history, this is acceptable.
5. Test drive first, then have a vehicle check done
Test drives should last for at least 15 minutes to allow the car to warm up - if the sales associate keeps the route or time spent behind the wheel shorter than this, don't be embarrassed to ask why.
Related: Tips for taking a test drive
If you're serious about the car in question, ask for the car to be sent to a vehicle inspection service centre that will take a closer look and provide a report on the car's inner workings. You can also write down the car's VIN number and do a vehicle check right here on AutoTrader.
