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Buying a Used Car

What to do when purchasing a used car
Buying a used car is always an exciting time but a lot of people rush in and sign on the dotted line without thinking it through or taking the necessary steps to make sure their new car purchase isn’t going to be a money pit. Whether it is through a used car dealer or a private seller getting the vehicle checked prior to purchase could save you the buyer a great deal of stress and money.

Used Car Dealers
Purchasing a car through a used car dealer can have its benefits. For example, if the vehicle is less than 10 years old and has travelled less than 150,000 klm and is not classed as a light commercial vehicle with one row of seat then you the buyer get the standard 3 month 5,000 klm Statutory Warranty. If the vehicle is is between 10 and 12 years old and has not travelled any more than 180,000 klm then you get a 1 month 1,500 klm Statutory Warranty.

Private Sellers
There are no warranties for private vehicle sales at all, so ensure the vehicle meets all your expectations before you outlay any money.

What is a Statutory Warranty?
The Statutory Warranty is put in place by the State Government, it covers various areas of the vehicle but bear in mind there are limitations to what it covers. Should a vehicle have a fault occur that is covered by the Statutory Warranty then legally the dealer is required to repair it at their cost. Should the dealer refuse then you the purchaser of the vehicle can take your claim to the small claims tribunal and have recourse through them to get the vehicle repaired.
An aftermarket or additional warranty that is purchased at the time of the vehicle purchase does not override the Statutory Warranty. A used car dealer CAN NOT cancel the Statutory Warranty. You the buyer must make an application to The Minister of Fair Trading through the Motor Vehicles Branch of The Department of Consumer Protection to have it cancelled.

  • See link below for “Do I have to fix it? A guide to used car warranty for dealers.” download published by the Department of Commerce before you sign on the dotted line

It is very important that you put the following statement in the special conditions section of the offer to purchase contract should you want to get a vehicle inspection.

Vehicle purchase is subject to an independent pre-purchase vehicle inspection. Should any mechanical or body faults be found that we the purchaser deem to be unsatisfactory the contract becomes null and void.

In most cases the dealer will do the right thing should there be a fault with the vehicle that you do not like. But in some instances used car dealers can force you to buy the vehicle, and this is because the offer to purchase contract is binding and there is no cooling off period. So technically once you sign on the dotted line you are committed to the purchase of that vehicle.

What to look for when buying a Used Car
SERVICE HISTORY: Ask for any documentation of servicing and maintenance. A poorly maintained vehicle can become a money pit.

BODY: Does the vehicles body present well, even paint finish and colour, even panel gaps and no unusual dulling or contamination to the paint finish?

INTERIOR: Does it present well? Do all interior items work as they should? Is the trim in a good condition for its age?

MILEAGE: Does the vehicles mileage reflect its age? Perth vehicles average around 15-20,000 kms per year.

ENGINE: Check the oil level and condition, does it make any unusual noises when its running stationary, is there any smoke evident when the engine is lightly revved?

DRIVE IT: Does the vehicle perform well, no unusual clunks or noises, gearbox operates smoothly with no harshness or noise? Is the steering and braking responsive with no signs of pulling, darting or shudders?

Taking the right steps towards your new car purchase can make all the difference. So happy hunting for your new car and we at A1 Autocheck Mobile Vehicle Inspections Perth hope this bit of information has helped you towards owning your new car.