Buying a used car? Need some advice

It is clear from the economic gurus in South Africa that new car sales are down during this economic climate. With that in mind, more and more consumers are looking at buying used cars.

Buying a car in South Africa is often the second biggest financial commitment a consumer makes after buying or renting a home. Unfortunately, emotions are generally the key driver in purchasing a car with little clear thinking and research done ahead of the purchase.

During the holiday period, many people use their days off to look into buying a car for the start of a new year or perhaps purchasing one as a Christmas present. Vishal Premlall, Director of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), says in these tough economic times making the wrong decision on a car purchase can be a very costly mistake.

“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 as the buyer to make sure when you sign you isn’t waiving away your consumer rights,” he says.

He advises consumers to first 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 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 satisfied that all related work needed and agreed upon is concluded, pay over the balance,” he advises.
An important point to consider is building a portfolio of evidence, i.e. reducing all agreements and undertakings into writing. “This way should you need recourse through a body like the Motor Industry Ombudsman then you have tangible proof to back up your case. Verbal agreements and contracts are often difficult to prove.”
Premlall adds the following quick tips and important questions to ask before purchasing a vehicle:

• 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 license 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 and guarantees still available on the car and will this 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 tires.
“Remember that if it looks too good to be true, it probably is,” he says.
Premlall also reminds 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.”

For contact details go to www.miwasa.com.