No matter where you are in the world, buying a used car is not as easy on the mind as buying something brand new. You see, while there are very many opportunities to find a good deal on a quality pre-owned vehicle, the fact is that you could very well land up with a lemon – a vehicle that ends up costing you heaps after you’ve bought it. For this reason, buying secondhand can feel like a gamble, and in our opinion, that’s no way to feel about investing a considerable sum of money into your own set of wheels.
The good news is that with the correct resources and approach, purchasing a secondhand vehicle does not necessarily have to be a ‘roll of the dice’ situation.
With that in mind, here are a few thoughts on what it means to buy a secondhand vehicle, as well as some tips on how you can navigate the pre-owned car market with confidence.
The Benefits Of Buying Pre-Owned
Given the choice, we would all most likely opt for a brand-new vehicle. After all, if money isn’t an issue, then why not? However, that is not the case for most South Africans. In fact, there are reports that more people are doing what they can to look after their cars in order to hang onto them for longer rather than replace with something newer.
Thankfully, buying a pre-owned vehicle can be hugely beneficial – and not just because these cars are more affordable. For instance, new vehicles tend to lose their value more rapidly in the first couple of years than the slower rate of depreciation experienced by used vehicles.
We spoke about the fact that pre-owned vehicles are usually much more affordable, but more than this, the pre-owned vehicle market provides a wider array of models and makes in your price range, so you have more choice. Added to that, you may also be able to buy a used vehicle with better features than a new, more basic option that fits your budget. We also can’t forget that insurance premiums tend to be lower for used cars.
So, What’s The Gamble?
You might be sitting there thinking that this talk of ‘gambling’ is fear-mongering, plain and simple, and that South Africa is home to numerous dealerships with strong reputations. It’s true that there are plenty of dealerships with decent reviews, and there are private sellers who have kept honest records of the vehicles that they have taken great care of. However, by the same token, there are some very real concerns, making it very normal for you to have a few reservations when it comes to buying a used vehicle.
Here are a few of the more common concerns:
- Unreliable Sellers – For as many honest sellers out there, there are just as many dishonest sellers misrepresenting the car’s history and condition.
- Hidden Defects – When all you’ve got are your own eyes to rely on, there may be underlying problems that aren’t visible during the visual inspection.
- Future Reliability – If you can’t for sure know what the vehicle’s condition is, then you can’t be certain that it will run smoothly after the purchase.
- Uncertain History – It can be difficult not to doubt a vehicle’s past, such as poor maintenance or past accidents.
Navigate The Pre-Owned Vehicle Market With Confidence
These are all very valid concerns, but they should not stop you from considering a used car. When you are armed with the right information and precautions, it is easy to mitigate the above-mentioned risks and find a quality car that matches your budget and needs.
Steps you should be taking to shop for a used vehicle:
- Check The History – This includes service records, accident history, and previous owners.
- Check The Documentation – Generally, this means the roadworthy certificate, service history, confirmation of the legal status of the vehicle, and registration papers.
- Test Drive – Get a feel for the vehicle, pay attention to how it accelerates, how the brakes feel, how it handles on the road, and make sure that every feature is working correctly.
- Compare Prices – Quality matters when it comes to cars and to avoid buying a car that’s riddled with hidden issues, a spotty history report, and who knows what other kinds of problems, it’s better to view slightly more expensive vehicles that have been thoroughly vetted.
- Ask Questions – For example, you should ask about any outstanding finance, because if you don’t and there is money owed on the vehicle, you will become responsible for this debt.
- Request A Comprehensive Inspection – A shiny exterior can be attractive, but what goes on under the bonnet is what truly matters.
The Certified Difference
Among the more effective methods to do away with your doubts, is to search for vehicles that have undergone an intensive inspection. Making this a reality is the introduction of AA accredited dealerships. These dealerships that have been popping up all over the country offer an increasing array of vehicles that have been through a strict certification process completed by AA-backed experts.
AA Certified pre-owned vehicles have verified histories and have been put through a multi-point, rigorous inspection by qualified technicians. Essentially, every major component, from the suspension to the engine, is checked and reported on.
Armed with all the relevant information, you’ll be able to make an informed purchase with total peace of mind. To put it another way, buying an AA Certified Pre-Owned vehicle, means that you aren’t just purchasing a set of wheels. You’re investing in peace of mind.
If you’re looking for an AA accredited dealership, click here.