Thinking of buying a used car this Festive Season?
Quick tips and important questions to ask before purchasing a vehicle this Festive Season.
The Festive Season is here, and buying a car might be on the cards.
With consumers feeling the pinch, more consumers are opting for a used car.
“Buying a car in South Africa is often the second biggest financial commitment a consumer makes after buying or renting a home,” said Pieter Niemand, a Director of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA).
“Unfortunately emotions are generally the key driver to purchasing a car, with little clear thinking and research done ahead of the purchase. In these tough economic times making the wrong decision on a car purchase can be a very costly mistake.”
He believes it really pays to take the time to do research and get a professional opinion before signing any contracts or handing over payment. “A contract needs to protect you, the buyer, so make sure that when you sign you aren’t waiving your consumer rights,” he said.
He advised consumers to firstly ask what guarantees are in place. If there are no guarantees, the seller needs to be transparent about why no guarantees exist. The Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 is very clear regarding minimum guarantees on transactions.
“If the deal hinges on additional work being done to the car, do not conclude the deal until the work is completed. Also be very clear regarding timelines for completion of the work. When you are ready to move forward with a deal, it is advisable to pay a deposit first. Then, when you’re satisfied that all the work needed and agreed upon is concluded, pay over the balance,” he advised.
An important point to consider is building a portfolio of evidence, i.e. reducing all agreements and undertakings to writing. “This way, should you need recourse through a body like the Retail Motor Industry (RMI) Organisation, you will have tangible proof to back up your case. Verbal agreements and contracts are often difficult to prove.”
Niemand added the following quick tips and important questions to ask before purchasing a vehicle:
• If you are buying privately – spend more time on the detail
• Before paying a deposit – ensure that all checks and balances are done.
• Does the car have a current licence disc and registration papers?
• Is the car in a roadworthy condition?
• Are you dealing with the owner of the car?
• Has the car been modified?
• Are there any warranties or guarantees still available on the car, and will they transfer on change of ownership?
• Is the car being sold for a fair price (research available via the internet)?
• Does the car have a service history that can be verified?
• Take the car for a test drive. Take a car specialist with you.
• Has the vehicle been in any accidents?
• Is the mileage correct and can this be verified?
• When last was the car serviced and when last was the cambelt changed?
• Do a mechanical report on the car before concluding the deal.
• Check the condition of the tyres.
“Remember that if it looks too good to be true, it probably is,” he said.
He also reminded consumers that there are professionals available to assist you ahead of buying a car. “Sometimes a phone call is all it takes to provide added peace of mind. MIWA and the Retail Motor Industry (RMI) are available nationally and will gladly assist if you are seeking advice.”
• Details: Visit www.miwasa.com.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at randfonteinherald@caxton.co.za (please remember to include your contact details in the email) or phone us on 011 693 3671.
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