A used car is a great way to get the most out of your money. A second-hand motor vehicle can save you hundreds if not thousands in buying costs. This guide will give you everything you need to know about buying a used car in New Zealand.
Choose the Best Type of Car for Your Needs
Before you start shopping, think about what you need from your car. Correcting your needs will help save money and ensure that your vehicle meets your requirements.
Do you drive to and from work or around town? If so, an economical car will be better for you. If you regularly drive long distances or need extra space, then you might want to purchase a car with power and durability.
Find the Best Car Models
Make a list of the different models of cars. To help choose which suits you better, you can look at safety rankings, upfront cost, running cost, and how well they hold their price.
Read the Independent Reviews
You use Google to find reviews of cars. You can add ‘NZ’ to your search to include New Zealand car reviews. This can help you decide which car is most suited for you.
Set a Budget
Many people set their car-buying budget on the initial cost and ongoing expenses. Whether you pay cash or use a financing option will determine the immediate price. Aside from the initial cost, selecting a vehicle you can afford is essential to keep running in the future. Fuel, vehicle licensing, insurance, parking, WoF, servicing and repairs, tires, road user charges, etc., are all ongoing costs.
Decide Whether to Buy from a Dealer or Privately
When you pay more for warranty coverage, a dealer will work with you to resolve any issues that arise. The dealership can fix the problem, transfer the car, or give you a refund. Buying from a private seller means there is no obligation to resolve any issues after the sale.
- Buying from a Private Seller
If you buy a car from a private seller, you can’t be sure it is safe or has been checked. It is always better to meet the seller at their home because if you know where they live, then it means they don’t care much if you know. Keep a copy of their advertisement and contact them by email to confirm any other details.
- Finding a Genuine Car Dealer
Search online for customer feedback through platforms like Google and Facebook to check on a dealership’s reputation. You could also have your friends and family ask those they wouldn’t or would buy from again.
Check CIN(Consumer Information Notice)
All motor vehicle traders must display an A4-size CIN for each vehicle, and if they are selling online, there must be a link to the CIN. This information lets you learn more about the car, such as price, make, model, year, registration plate number, etc.
Go for a Test Drive
You need to visit car yards and test drive the models. The outcome of these tests should be recorded so that time can be saved while making decisions. Everyone’s checklist will be different, but here are some ideas to get you started:
- Luggage space in a used car – will your suitcases, sports gear, or pushchair fit easily?
- Is the car seat comfortable? Is it easy to get in and out of? Can you reach the controls easily?
- Are the passengers you will carry comfortably in the backseat? Is there enough leg room and head height for them?
- Is the back door of your car large enough for children to get in and out?
- Does driving, accelerating well, stopping quickly, and handling uneven roads feel safe?
After test driving the car, make sure to park it on concrete. Keep the engine running, and all other electronics turned on to check for leaks when you get out of the car. Remember to stay calm by not being overly critical about minor defects or appearing too keen about a specific car.
Buying the Car You have Chosen.
To avoid issues with unreliable sellers, it is essential to get the car checked by an independent expert. Getting the car checked out before buying it can be a good idea for people without car knowledge. Many people decide to get checked out, even if there are no problems, just as a precaution. If there are any issues found, you can negotiate with the seller.
Before you agree on a price of a new car, it is helpful to get an idea of prices for similar models in fair condition. When testing out cars, never pay the asking price. Negotiate! If you feel uncomfortable negotiating with car sellers, ask an acquaintance or family member to negotiate for you and compensate them ahead of time.
