Looking to buy a second-hand car? It can be exciting trying to find something just right, but be sure you do your research! We’ve got plenty of tips for buying a used car, so you can know what to look out for to avoid a lemon!
Once you’ve bought your second-hand car, you may want to consider getting it insured. Luckily for you, we know someone (It’s us!).
Before you buy
Before jumping into the car lists, it can help to narrow down what you want and need in your new-used-car.
Kilometres driven
A car that has been driven less may be in better nick overall.
You can check a car’s age against its kilometres driven: Specifically, how much the average Aussie drives their car in a year: 12,100 kilometres. If a used car is only a few years old, but has already counted over 100,000 kilometres, it may have parts that are more worn than desired, and may not be as reliable as you’d like.
Consider this ratio when looking for a second-hand car.
Safety
Safety doesn’t need to be compromised on when you buy a second-hand vehicle. It just means you need to do your homework!
Check the Used Car Safety Rating Buyer’s Guide, or the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) How Safe Is Your Car website. Both are great resources to vet against when looking at buying a used car.
Running costs
Some cars are more fuel efficient than others, which can make them cheaper to run. Consider comparing different used cars to find one that gives you the best bang-per-kilometre.
The Australian Government's Green Vehicle Guide can give you more insight into a specific car's average annual fuel costs and emissions.
Another semi-ongoing cost is insurance. You can get a quote online to see how much it may cost to insure that new-used car – they’re not binding, so feel free to check for each car you’re looking at.
There’s also compulsory third party (CTP) insurance, which covers your liability for other people injuries in an incident involving your vehicle. Organising it differs depending on which state you live in, so check with your road authority!
Bingle doesn’t offer CTP insurance – check out AAMI or Suncorp Insurance (they’re part of the Suncorp Group, like Bingle).
Where to buy
Buying from a private seller
This one has its pros and cons, and depends on your own judgement and your level of trust in the seller:
- You may get a better deal, as there may be more wiggle-room to negotiate.
- You’re able to get the history directly from owner.
- No warranty (usually).
- Check the paperwork.
Questions to consider asking
These are just a few things you may want to ask when buying a used vehicle. They’ll (hopefully!) give you some insight into the quality of your possible purchase.
- What was the car used for?
- How many owners has it had?
- Is there anything wrong with the car?
- Can I have it inspected by a mechanic?
- Why are you selling?
- Has it been involved in any accidents?
- Is it roadworthied?
- Is there any debt left on it?
Something to check
Even after you get your answers and take a look at a used car’s log book, make sure you check its history with Personal Property Security Register (PPSR).
This will hopefully confirm everything the owner has told you – including if there’s any money owed on the car, if its current owner matches up, and whether it has been written off. A comprehensive report can give you more info on the vehicle’s history.
Buying from a dealer
- Can be more expensive, but takes a lot of legwork out.
- Lot of docs on hand, including car history and guarantees they’re free from debt.
- Stamp duty and rego may be included.
Statutory Warranty and Cooling Off Period by state
If you bought your second hand car through a dealer, you’ll usually get a warranty and cooling-off period (depending on the details of your vehicle).
These change depending on your state or territory, so be sure to check yours before signing any contracts.
- Queensland
- New South Wales
- Victoria
- Western Australia
- Tasmania
- South Australia
- Northern Territory
- Australian Capital Territory
How to inspect a car
Once you’ve found a car you like, give it a proper inspection, or have a mechanic do it if you’re unsure. Here’s what to look for:
Interior
Check the seats, dashboard, carpet, and controls. Excessive wear in the cabin can hint at harder use, even if the odometer says otherwise. Make sure the air-con, infotainment, windows, and locks all work properly.
Accident damage
Look for mismatched paint, uneven panel gaps, rust spots, or overspray. These can all point to previous repairs. A used car can still be a great buy even with past repairs, you just want to know about them.
Inspect the engine and its oil
Pop the bonnet (carefully). Check the oil levels and colour; very dark, thick oil can suggest overdue servicing. Look for any obvious leaks or corrosion around hoses and connectors.
Check for fuel leaks
A strong smell of petrol, especially after running the engine, is a red flag. Leaks can be costly and unsafe, and are honestly best avoided.
Inspect the radiator
The coolant should be clean and usually green, pink, or orange depending on type. Brown or sludgy coolant may indicate internal engine issues.
Check the seatbelts
Make sure they retract smoothly and aren’t frayed. Seatbelts are essential, and replacements can get pricey in some models.
Check the lights
Test the headlights, brake lights, reverse lights and indicators. Replacing bulbs is easy — fixing electrical issues isn’t.
Inspect the panels and paint
Look for dents, scratches, hail damage, or signs a panel has been replaced. Stand back and look at the car from different angles. Sometimes imperfections only show up in certain light.
Test the transmission
Whether it’s manual or automatic, gear changes should feel smooth. Shuddering, slipping, or delayed shifts could point to expensive repairs.
Consider a test drive
Always take it for a spin. Listen for strange noises, check how it handles, and make sure the brakes feel solid. A test drive is your best chance to see how the car behaves on the road.
After you buy
Congrats, you’ve scored your new (used) car! Before you take it on its maiden voyage:
- transfer registration into your name
- sort out your CTP (if needed in your state), and
- consider getting insurance sorted.
And if you’re ready to insure your second-hand ride, we’re here to help.