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The used car market is a lot bigger than the new car market and therefore consumers are most likely to purchase a pre-owned model before they get to experience that ‘new car smell’. In 2021 there were over 1,5 million used car registrations, in comparison new car sales figures reached only 464 122 according to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa).

Consumers looking for a used car should be aware that the vehicle will have wear and tear and will need to undergo checks to its mechanics and bodywork prior to purchasing.

1. Work out a budget It’s important to know the price range as this will assist in determining how much your monthly instalment will be. Remember to budget for items like insurance, petrol, tyres and a vehicle tracker. Second-hand cars are likely to need more maintenance than new vehicles and this should also be taken into account.
2. Dealership or private? The choice to buy from a private seller or dealership is important but in both scenarios, it’s important to test drive the vehicle extensively and do background research on the company.
3. Check the VIN number Obtain the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to see if the vehicle has been stolen. This simple check could save you a big headache down the line.
4. Conduct a roadworthy test Particularly when buying from a private individual, a simple and easy way to determine whether a vehicle has issues is via a roadworthy test. Simply find your nearest DEKRA-test and inspection centre and you’ll have peace of mind of the car’s history.
5. Make an offer Once you’re happy the car is in good condition, it is time to make an offer to purchase. There’s always room to negotiate with a seller, but don’t feel pressured to make a financial purchase unless you’re completely at ease with it.

Article sourced from: https://briefly.co.za/cars-tech/120119-five-buying-a-second-hand-car/