Consumer and Business Services (CBS) has published advice for members of the community who may be thinking of, or planning to, buy a used car.
According to the CBS, when buyers see cars for sale online they often see a great car in the photos and the descriptions make them sound amazing, “but there are some important things that should be checked to avoid any nasty surprises”.
CBS said ‘Beware of hidden damage’ was one.
“Vehicles that have been flood damaged interstate could be offered for sale to unsuspecting buyers in South Australia,” CBS said.
“The extent of the damage might not show up until later, and it could be costly to repair,” it said.
“If the damage is major, the car may have been ‘written off ’.
“If the damage is minor, the vehicle can be a ‘repairable write off’.
“A licensed dealer must not sell a car that has defects or been written off, but a private seller might offer a damaged vehicle for sale.”
The CBS also advises potential buyers to ‘Know your rights’.
It advised them to: Set a price limit you can afford; Take your time and don’t be rushed or pressured; Shop around for the best deal; Take the car for a test drive;
Have the car checked by a qualified independent mechanic; and Don’t sign anything until you’re sure the car is in good condition and you really want to buy it.
CBS also said that if you buy from a car dealer you get important consumer protections including: The car must be free from defects; You get a warranty in most cases; The car is covered by consumer guarantees; and You’ll have certainty about the car’s ownership as dealers must check the Personal Property Securities Register.
CBS also has other advice and information for potential used car buyers which can be found on its website at this PS News link.
