Tips For Buying Used Cars

Buying a used car in New Zealand can be a tricky and time-consuming process. But it’s a smart way to save money and get a reliable vehicle. As we know, a year-old car is much cheaper than a new one. If you’re prepared, then the process is not tricky at all. From checking the car’s history to taking the test drive, there are many steps that every used car buyer needs to follow to avoid costly mistakes. In this guide, we will learn everything that you need to know.

Step 1. Do your research

Before you start checking online or visiting dealers or private sellers, take some time to research what type of vehicle you need. Consider these factors:

• Purpose of Vehicle: Are you buying for family use, a long route, or for something else?
• Parking: Do you have a garage or parking space on your property?
• Check common issues: Some cars have recurring mechanical problems. Check online on websites, car forums, or consumer reports to learn about specific models.
• Consider fuel efficiency and maintenance: Older vehicles may cost less upfront, but could be more expensive to maintain. Balance the initial cost with the long-term running cost.  

Step 2. Work on Your Budget First

To make the buying process easier, set your budget. It ensures you didn’t waste anyone’s time.

Before you start searching a car, you need to know how much money you can afford. You will waste your own and seller’s time if you don’t have sufficient budget to buy a car. Be sure to gather your money before you go car shopping, as good deals can be taken quickly.

Also consider additional costs, such as:

• Registration and Warrant of Fitness (WOF)
• Potential repair and maintenance
• Insurance
• Fuel consumption

Setting a budget helps you to avoid stretching your finances and ensures you can comfortably maintain the vehicle after purchase. 

Step 3. Planning to Get Rid of Your Current Car?

If you have an old car to sell, then before buying it’s important to think about what you will do with your current car. Here are some practical tips:

Check the condition: Inspect your current car condition is still roadworthy or if it needs significant repairs. 

Sell privately: You can sell privately if the condition is fine and you can get a higher price. But finding a buyer can take time. 

Sell to wreckers: If your car is old or not in running condition, then considering a cash for cars service is the best practical option. 

Step 4. Inspect the Vehicle 

A proper inspection is very important when purchasing a used car. Some common areas to check:

• Engine and Fluids: It’s an essential part of the inspection. Check for oil leaks, coolant level, and signs of corrosion.
• Suspension and Brakes: Ensure the car handles smoothly and brakes respond correctly, as it’s essential for safety. 
• Odometer and Reading: Check the odometer reading to see the total kilometres driven. Compare the kilometers with the car’s age. 
• Investigate the Car’s History: Check vehicle’s history such as accidents, and outstanding finance history. 
• Tires: Check all the tyres, including the spare, and also check the tread depth. 
• Interior: Inspect the interior components of the car, including seat belts and electronics. 
• Exterior: Look for scratches, dents, and mismatched paint that could identify past accidents. Also, check for signs of rust. 

Step 5. Know the Best Time to Buy a Car

After deciding what car you are going to buy, it’s time to get the best deal. If you’re buying a car from a dealer, there’s always a right time to buy. The right time is the end of the month, quarter, and year, as car salespeople are motivated to meet their sales targets. Mid-March, June, and September, as well as December, are the best months, as dealers want to maximise sales and move cars during these periods.

Step 6. Take a Test Drive

A test drive helps you assess the car’s performance practically. When testing, make sure:

• Listen to unusual noises carefully. Pay attention to any strange engine, transmission, or brake noises. 
• Check the response of the brake and acceleration.
• Drive on the streets and highway to assess its handling, acceleration, and braking. 
• Check the functionality of electronic lights, wipers, and air conditioning. 

If possible, drive a car in traffic to get a complete analysis of its performance. 

Step 7. Get a Professional Inspection

It’s challenging to detect any functional issues for a layman. It’s better to arrange a pre-purchase inspection (PPI). Having a trusted, experienced mechanic can help check and easily detect the functional issue.

If the inspection reveals any issue, you can use this report to negotiate a higher price that covers potential repair costs. If the problem is serious and can cost more than the vehicle is worth, you may choose to skip it.

Step 8. Verify the Legal Ownership and Papers

Ensuring the car’s paperwork is equally important as inspecting the vehicle physically. Check these key documents:

• Vehicle Registration: Verify the car is legally registered in New Zealand. 
• Warrant of Fitness: Ensure that the WOF is up-to-date and check when the next inspection is due. 
• VIN and History Check: Use services to confirm the car has not been stolen, written off, or has a hidden finance owing.
• Service Records: A well-maintained car should have a record of regular servicing and maintenance. 

Avoid any vehicle that has incomplete or suspicious documentation, as it’s better to cause financial or legal problems later. 

Step 9. Negotiate a Price

Once you’re satisfied with the car’s condition and paperwork, it’s time to haggle over the price. 

• Research: Research and then justify your offer. If the same make and models are cheaper elsewhere, mention it politely.
• Stick to your price: Don’t rush the process and maintain your price point effectively. Most sellers list their vehicles 8-10% higher than the average price for the model, because they know the buyers will negotiate the price. 
• Consider additional factors, such as accessories and upcoming repairs that may be necessary. 

Step 10. Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Be careful and avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping a mechanical inspection.
• Ignoring the vehicle’s history and paperwork.
• Overlooking additional costs, for example, insurance or repairs.
• Focusing only on the price without considering long-term costs. 

Being practical and patient will save your money and stress and give you peace of mind in the long run.