Tips when buying a new or used car to keep you safe and get you the greatest deal

 

 

Caveat Emptor (Buyer Beware!)

The onus is on those selling and purchasing items within Car Genie to protect their own interests.
This includes a responsibility on the buyer and seller to investigate the transaction
(including the state of the goods and reputation of the buyer/seller) to their satisfaction,
before depositing funds, sending items or undertaking any other trading activity.

 


 

  • When buying a new or second hand / used car, always be realistic about your budget, research the market
    and weigh up every option including:

The kilometres travelled, factory options or aftermarket options of the car.
The overall condition of the car, mechanically and aesthetically.
What is the registration expiry and is a Roadworthy Certificate supplied?

  • Is the car sold with registration or a certificate of roadworthiness?

It is much easier and gives you better peace of mind when you buy a car that is supplied with registration and/or at least a roadworthy certificate.

It lets you know that the car is in roadworthy condition and any problems with the car will be rectified by the seller.
It is also much easier when it comes to the transfer of ownership of the vehicle.

Be aware people can often produce bogus roadworthy certificates, meaning that the car was signed off without being checked/repaired.

 

  • If possible, get a Vehicle Identification Check & Mechanical Check done:

A Vehicle Identification Check will let you know of any accidents, thefts or claims made for a vehicle.
A check can also help you to identify whether your seller is being completely honest with you,
although remember if the seller is a 2nd owner they may not know of previous history.

You can have a Check done here:

www.autocheck.com.au

 They do cost some money, but the check may be well worth it.

A good check by a mechanic is also a very good idea before the purchase of a car.
Most mechanics will come and do a pre-purchase check of a vehicle for a small price.
Some mechanics will even be able to tell you if they believe the car has been in an accident or has been modified in any way.

 

  • Make sure the seller and the ad are legitimate:

There are alot of scams running that involve people selling cars that don't exist.
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

It is NOT a good idea to purchase a car without ever seeing it,
especially if the seller tells you that the car is currently overseas or interstate and it will be sent down when you make payment.


If you come across any ads on Car Genie that seem suspicious, please report them to: admin@cargenie.com.au

 CAR GENIE is not responsible for any ads that may be misleading or are scams,
we try our hardest to remove all these ads but obviously it is impossible for us to remove them all.

  

  • Try not to meet up with a seller in an unknown area:

When you are arranging to view/inspect a car, try to make sure it is at their home address or somewhere you know of.
Try to always meet in a well-lit or highly exposed area to traffic and people.
It is always a good idea to bring someone with you.

 

 

 

Powered by iAuto
Copyright (c) 2009-2011 The Genie Group Australia
Car Genie is a registered trademark of 'The Genie Group Australia'