BUYING TIPS
Consumer Advice - Buying a Used Car
Buying a car is one of the major purchases we make and cars are an essential part of most consumers lives. Disputes can occur purchasing the vehicle, soon after purchase with warranty issues, and then later with repairs and servicing problems.
Useful Links and websites
Office of Fair Trading
OFT - motor vehicles
OFT - publications – consumer
Pre Purchase Vehicle Inspection
Motor Vehicle Repair Industry Authority
Buying a Used Car
There are a number of ways to buy a used car, some much safer than others. These include buying from a licensed dealer, from a private seller, from an auction, or at one of the weekend used car markets that spring up from time to time.
Although we recommend that you purchase a vehicle from a licensed MTA dealer, we also believe you should have the best possible advice if you intend to purchase a vehicle privately, or from a weekend market or an auction.
A warning
The purchase of a motor vehicle usually involves a significant amount of money. It's important that you don't sign anything unless you're ready to commit yourself to the terms and conditions detailed on the paperwork.
Remember - if you sign a contract to buy a car and change your mind later you may still have to pay the dealer a portion of the agreed sale price.
Any promises should be in writing and the papers signed by both parties to the transaction.
Summary of steps to follow when buying privately
Verify ownership of the vehicle.
Verify the identity of the vendor(s).
Contact REVS on (02) 9633 6333 or 1800 424 988 (toll free in regional NSW) 8.30am to 5.30pm weekdays and 9am to 5pm weekends and public holidays
Check for Compliance Plate (or RTA approval for registration).
Contact the Roads and Traffic Authority Motor Registry Office [132 213].
Check that vehicle's engine and chassis (or VIN) numbers match registration papers.
In a private sale the vendor is legally required to produce a Certificate of Inspection issued within the last month when showing the vehicle.
This Certificate should be given to the purchaser at the time of sale.
Check the mechanical condition of the vehicle.
Be sure you have Compulsory Third Party insurance arranged if vehicle is unregistered.
(Comprehensive insurance cover is also strongly recommended.)
Get all terms and conditions of the transaction in writing and signed by both yourself and the vendor.
Buying a car is one of the major purchases we make and cars are an essential part of most consumers lives. Disputes can occur purchasing the vehicle, soon after purchase with warranty issues, and then later with repairs and servicing problems.
Useful Links and websites
Office of Fair Trading
OFT - motor vehicles
OFT - publications – consumer
Pre Purchase Vehicle Inspection
Motor Vehicle Repair Industry Authority
Buying a Used Car
There are a number of ways to buy a used car, some much safer than others. These include buying from a licensed dealer, from a private seller, from an auction, or at one of the weekend used car markets that spring up from time to time.
Although we recommend that you purchase a vehicle from a licensed MTA dealer, we also believe you should have the best possible advice if you intend to purchase a vehicle privately, or from a weekend market or an auction.
A warning
The purchase of a motor vehicle usually involves a significant amount of money. It's important that you don't sign anything unless you're ready to commit yourself to the terms and conditions detailed on the paperwork.
Remember - if you sign a contract to buy a car and change your mind later you may still have to pay the dealer a portion of the agreed sale price.
Any promises should be in writing and the papers signed by both parties to the transaction.
Summary of steps to follow when buying privately
Verify ownership of the vehicle.
Verify the identity of the vendor(s).
Contact REVS on (02) 9633 6333 or 1800 424 988 (toll free in regional NSW) 8.30am to 5.30pm weekdays and 9am to 5pm weekends and public holidays
Check for Compliance Plate (or RTA approval for registration).
Contact the Roads and Traffic Authority Motor Registry Office [132 213].
Check that vehicle's engine and chassis (or VIN) numbers match registration papers.
In a private sale the vendor is legally required to produce a Certificate of Inspection issued within the last month when showing the vehicle.
This Certificate should be given to the purchaser at the time of sale.
Check the mechanical condition of the vehicle.
Be sure you have Compulsory Third Party insurance arranged if vehicle is unregistered.
(Comprehensive insurance cover is also strongly recommended.)
Get all terms and conditions of the transaction in writing and signed by both yourself and the vendor.
