Today’s economic climate has resulted in more South Africans turning to the pre-owned market to source more affordable vehicle options. Whether you want to upgrade your current car or you are on the exciting journey of buying your first car, this market can be daunting to navigate.
Your journey through the second-hand car market requires a bit of savvy, patience, and diligence. By avoiding common pitfalls, and following tips from the experts, you will be well on your way to finding a reliable car that matches your budget and needs.
With that in mind, to assist you in making a more informed decision, we have consulted with certified assessors and AA experts to offer invaluable insights on the best way to go about buying a vehicle on the pre-owned market, which pitfalls to avoid, and other helpful tips to make sure you secure the best deal.
Empower Yourself
A lot of the experts agree that before you start looking around, it’s really important to do your research. There are a few reasons why this is the case. Firstly, because marketing and sales consultants can be pretty persuasive and the last thing you want is to be convinced of something that you never really wanted. Secondly, it can help prevent from inadvertently committing to a car that you can’t afford in the long run. Lastly, knowing what you want and what is out there will give you an eye for a good deal.
The Usual Checks
According to the experts, the main checks you need to review include the vehicle’s history report, the service history, and warranty coverage.
A vehicle’s history can reveal vital information about its past, including ownership changes, service history, and accidents. The service history is just as important, because it tells you how well the vehicle has been taken care of, as well as indicating the likelihood of upcoming repairs or major services. Furthermore, if there is still a warranty in place, make sure you have a full understanding of what is covered along with how long.
A Professional Inspection
The vehicle history report is crucial, but it will never be a substitute for a stringent physical inspection. The experts at the AA always suggest having the car inspected by a professional and reputable mechanic or viewing cars that have been through the AA Certified Pre-Owned Programme. This programme uses certified assessors to perform a comprehensive 128-point check that examines everything from the transmission and engine to the electrical systems and bodywork. This often uncovers potential problems that were not immediately apparent to an untrained eye.
If you’re looking for a vehicles that have already been through the AA’s rigorous inspection process, then click here to view a network of dealerships who have partnered with the AA.
The Test Drive Still Matters
In the world of doing all things online, many consumers are buying cars that they haven’t seen in person. It’s important to test drive vehicles that you are interested in, not only to get a feel for how the vehicle handles but to identify any problems that might only appear once the vehicle is in motion. In fact, AA technical experts recommend driving the vehicle on different roads to really get a feel for how the car actually handles.
What to pay attention to during the test drive:
- Smooth acceleration and engine performance
- Steering responsiveness
- Braking effectiveness
- Ergonomics and comfort
- Vibrations or unusual noises
Pitfalls To Avoid When purchasing from the Pre-Owned Market
It’s one thing to know what to look out for, but it’s equally important to have a firm grasp on any red flags telling you which cars not to buy.
The common pitfalls to avoid:
- Skipping the vehicle history check: This could result in unexpected expenses down the road.
- Rushing the process: Take enough time to inspect the car and conduct your research. Don’t allow anyone to pressure you into making a decision on the spot.
- Not reading the fine print: Essentially, you need to understand the conditions and terms before you sign the agreement.
- Overlooking additional costs: Owning a car means you need to factor in maintenance, fuel, insurance, and ‘potential’ repair costs when you set your budget.
- Ignoring internal red flags: Trust your gut. If something feels amiss about the car or even the seller, it is usually better to walk away.
The Certification Programmes Solution
Increasingly more dealerships are going the extra mile and providing CPO (certified pre-owned) vehicles that have been through a more stringent inspection. A good example is the AA’s Certified Pre-Owned Programme, which offers rigorous quality checks along with detailed reports and added benefits to the buyer.
It’s true that CPO cars may come in at a slightly higher price, but the extra assurance along with potential savings on repairs make these vehicles the best choices for first-time buyers.
Remember, the AA provides a plethora of services that can help you along your car-buying journey. From roadside assistance to vehicle inspections and insurance, feel free to reach out for professional support and advice throughout the process.