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Single Mom’s Guide to Buying a Used Car
Buying a used car can be intimidating, especially if it’s your first rodeo. So, where do you start if you’ve never bought a new car?
How much should I spend on a used car?
Understanding all the costs involved when purchasing a used car is one of the most important factors in determining which vehicle is best for your family.
We all work on a budget, and a car can seriously impact your finances. The costs don’t stop once you’ve completed your purchase – insurance, re-registration, fuel, repairs, tires and maintenance all add up.
Figure out what you can afford and then refine your monthly budget. The number of kilometers you drive will determine how often you need your vehicle serviced. A more fuel-efficient vehicle will lower your running costs, while a newer model vehicle will (generally) lower your maintenance costs.
The ASIC Moneysmart website provides some insight into running costs, while the Moneysmart Cars app, available for Apple and Android phone users, can help you calculate costs when planning your budget.
Also, consider how much the car will cost and whether you’ll need to borrow money to buy it. say liberty loan Discover your options and the best way forward in your current situation.
Used Car Safety Features
When you’re buying a used car, ideally you want to look for a vehicle with a five-star ANCAP safety rating and check the odometer reading. This ensures that it will still function properly in the event of an accident. As you refine your shortlist, check the ANCAP website for crash test and safety data, including Green Vehicle Guidelines. The website will let you compare different models to see how they perform.
Other features you may want to look into include car seat configurations. If you frequently move children between vehicles, you may want to consider a car with ISOFIX anchorage points, because if you have an ISOFIX seat, installing your car seat will be easier and safer every time.
All vehicles sold in recent years have features designed to make you and pedestrians safer on the road. If your current car is more than a decade old, you may not have come across some of these great features.
Back-up cameras are a great help for navigating parking lots, but they can also help you spot stray children, animals and strollers and avoid a tragic accident. While automatic emergency braking will automatically brake your car if it senses an imminent collision, blind-spot monitoring will alert you to vehicles in your blind spots. Adaptive cruise control is similar to cruise control, but sets your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing wear on your brakes. Most car manufacturers have good demonstrations of the technology on their websites or can show it to you on a test drive.
Further reading: Choosing a car seat for your child.
Buying a used car that best suits your needs?
Be realistic about the type of driving you will be doing and the work your vehicle will be doing. A sporty red convertible is a great midlife crisis car, but a two-door can be a headache because you have to get out of the seat to let the kids in and out every trip.
If you live in a small suburb, a small car like a Toyota Corolla or Volkswagen Golf might be ideal, but if you’re in the country and constantly needing to carry extra kids, it won’t be able to fill the role of a mom. bus.
A big, flashy European SUV might be the styling wheel you want to see on your school doorstep. But in reality, it’s likely to turn into a money pit, as expensive replacement tires, brakes, and other parts can eat into your budget.
Ask your friends and family what they like about their vehicles. Is it low maintenance and reliable? Is it flexible enough to meet their needs from the car? How does its fuel performance compare to other cars in Australia? These are all smart things to consider – you want a car that works for you, not one that’s cumbersome (or exxy) to maintain.
Where do I go to find a good used car?
Generally speaking, the best used car to buy is one that is the latest model you can afford, has the lowest mileage, has a good service history, and preferably comes with a warranty.
When buying a car from a car dealer, statutory warranties on used cars vary from state to state, so use the checklist to ensure compliance. The rules in New South Wales may differ from those in Victoria or South Australia. Check your state’s consumer affairs or fair dealing website for specific provisions. Warranties are not always available on older vehicles, vehicles with a certain number of kilometers on the road and certain commercial vehicles. So if buying from a dealer, check the fine print.
Some retailers sell extended warranties, which can be a good option if the price is right and you can afford it. However, extended warranties do come with strict caveats.
If a car looks too good to be true, it probably is, so be sure to verify the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). When buying a car privately, unless you have extensive mechanical knowledge or a family member has a workshop, it’s best not to buy something that looks like a complete bargain.
Should I buy privately or from a dealer?
Once you have a budget and a short list of makes and models, it’s time to do some research online. Carsales.com.au provides resources for checking car values. This is a great place to see what cars are selling for and what’s available from private sellers and dealers in your area.
If you haven’t selected a brand yet, you can search by body type or lifestyle first. Refine your search by selecting your budget, year and location from the Used Car Buying Guide and you’ll start to narrow down your choices.
Deciding to buy from a private seller or a car dealer will largely depend on your available budget and location.
On the plus side, private buying allows you to get a better price on a car. There is no warranty on private sales however, so buyer beware. On the other hand, buying a used car from a dealer can be challenging. Therefore, you may need a friend or knowledgeable acquaintance to help you complete the transaction.
Before handing over your cash, do these three things!
- After you choose your car, Perform PPSR inspection. The Personal Property Securities Register will let you know if there is any financial information on the car you are looking at. It can also tell you if it has been stolen or has been written off in the past. Avoid any car with a red flag.
- Take your used car to a reliable auto repair shop for repairs Pre-purchase inspection. Any reputable seller should be happy to let you take the car for inspection. Or take your car to a mechanic for an independent inspection on your behalf. The inspection will let you know of any safety issues that need to be addressed. Such as when the tires or brakes need to be replaced, whether the service is on schedule, what major service items are due, and whether there is any work that needs to be completed in the near future. This inspection will go beyond airworthiness inspection. Giving you more advice and in-depth knowledge of your car than just a “pass” or “fail” assessment, ensuring you’re confident the car is worth the investment.
- Register with your state’s automobile club roadside assistance. Unfortunately, there are no guarantees with used cars, so having roadside coverage can give you peace of mind if you break down, get a flat tire, or have issues with the battery.
Further Reading: Getting a Car Loan: What You Really Need to Know.
Frequently asked questions about buying used cars in Australia
What should you consider when buying a used car in Australia?
When you decide to buy a used car in Australia, you should consider several factors. First, determine your budget, including the cost of the vehicle and any extras, e.g. car insurance and registration fees. It’s also important to consider what your car will be used for – whether it’s commuting, family travel or both. In addition, research on various used car Look for models known for their reliability and safety. Also, be sure to check odometer reading And make sure it’s appropriate for the car’s age and condition. Create a Checklist Track your research and findings.
How to effectively inspect a used car before buying?
To effectively inspect a used car, check the interior and exterior for any signs of damage or wear. Check for rust, paint inconsistencies, and the condition of the tires. Check under the hood for leaks or corrosion and make sure all fluids are at proper levels. It is also recommended that you test drive the car to evaluate its performance. Listen for any unusual sounds and note how it is handled. If you’re not sure you have the ability to inspect your vehicle thoroughly, consider hiring a professional to perform a car inspection.
How much is the car I’m interested in worth?
this car value There are many ways to identify content that interests you. Research online platforms like RedBook or CarsGuide to get an estimate based on make, model, year and condition. You can also view current listings of similar used cars in your area to gauge market value. If buying from a private seller, negotiate based on your findings and any issues discovered during the inspection. Always pay a fair price based on the car’s condition and market trends.
What documents should you check when buying a used car?
Checking multiple documents is essential to ensure a smooth transaction when buying a used car. First, request vehicle identification number (VIN) and confirm that it matches the details in the registration document. Plus, get a personal property securities register (PPSR) certificate to check if the car is delinquent or has been written off. Ask about the car’s maintenance history to find out how well the vehicle has been cared for.
