If buying a used car feels like a daunting process, fear not; we've got you covered. From doing your research and setting a budget to test driving a variety of cars, we walk you through the steps so you don't get stuck with a lemon (and if you do, we offer advice on that too).
1. Research, research, research!
Before you start looking for a used car, find out about the make, model, and year of the car you want. Use the Internet to read reviews, join forums, and make use of the many other resources to learn about the car's dependability, common problems, how expensive it is to maintain and other owners' experiences. Research and compare cars here.
Which car brand lasts forever?
2. Set a realistic budget
Be conservative when setting a budget, taking into account not only the price of the car but also costs like insurance, maintenance, and registration fees. This ensures that you find a car that meets your needs without breaking the bank, even if it's not quite your dream car.
Need some help with the basics?
Use AutoTrader's car finance calculator.
What car can I buy if I earn R10 000?
Can I buy a car with zero down payment?
3. Consider buying a certified pre-owned car
Buying a certified pre-owned car (like a Mercedes-Benz, for example) gives you additional peace of mind because these vehicles go through rigorous inspections and often come with longer warranties. Certified pre-owned cars might cost more at first, but the extra benefits can outweigh the initial cost.
Paying for a car: Cash, finance, or personal loan?
Who is eligible for car finance?
4. Check the vehicle’s history
Get a full report on the car's history to uncover any past accidents, title issues, or odometer discrepancies. This is an important step prevent potential headaches down the line. Visit us here for our handy vehicle check tool.
How do I check for previous damage on a used car?
5. Get a mechanic to inspect the car you're interested in
Before you confirm the deal, get a qualified mechanic to do a full pre-purchase inspection. A mechanic can find hidden issues and give you useful information about the car's overall health, which will help you make a smart choice.
Alternatively, bring a friend who knows something (or rather, a lot) about cars or take it to the experts below:
Should you get your car DEKRA tested?
6. Test drive more than one car
Take the time to test drive more than one car to compare performance, comfort, and overall condition. During the test drive, pay close attention to any strange sounds, vibrations, or warning signs to make sure you're making the right choice.
How do I test drive a car before buying it?
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7. Negotiate the price
Price negotiations are an important part of buying a car. Research market values, point out any flaws or issues, and be prepared to walk away if the seller isn't willing to negotiate. Don't forget that the goal is to get a fair price for both parties.
How to negotiate when buying a car
Buying privately: The pros and cons
Top 3 negotiating tips when selling your car
8. Don’t forget to factor in ownership costs
Besides the purchase price, you should also think about the ongoing costs of owning a car, like insurance premiums, maintenance costs, and gas mileage. Include these costs in your budget to make sure you can keep up with the car's upkeep over time.
What is the average cost of ownership for a budget-friendly car?
9. Verify the car’s legal compliance
Make sure the vehicle meets South African rules for roadworthiness, licencing, and so forth. Ensure that all of the required paperwork is in order and that the car meets the legal requirements to be driven on South African roads.
What paperwork do you need when you want to buy a car?
What documents should I get when buying a car from a dealer?
10. Trust Your Gut
When you're shopping, trust your instincts more than anything else. Walk away if it doesn’t feel right or if the deal seems too good to be true. There are many used cars available, and the right one for you is out there! But you do have recourse if you bought something undesirable, read our article on this topic below:
In conclusion, buying a used car requires careful consideration and thorough research. If you follow these 10 tips, you'll be able to confidently navigate the process.
ENDS
