Buying a Car: Tips & Advice

How Can I Compare Multiple Car Makes and Models?

Visit a car supermarket where you can see a wide range of vehicles displayed in categories. This allows you to compare different makes and models side by side without dealing with aggressive sales tactics. Although these dealerships often have fixed prices, it’s worth asking about discounts. Be aware that they might sell ex-rental or ex-mine site vehicles, which are often well-restored but might come with higher price tags.

What Should I Consider When Visiting a Car Supermarket?

• High Turnover: Car supermarkets typically have a high turnover of vehicles and may push warranties and finance options.
• Pricing: While they often work on lower profit margins, their stock may not always be the cheapest. Compare prices elsewhere.
• Explore Alternatives: Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, explore other dealerships and private sales for potentially better deals.

How Can I Ensure I Don’t End Up With a Problematic Vehicle?

• Vehicle Age: For cars under five years old, or Japanese/Korean cars under 10-15 years old, you’re generally less likely to encounter major issues.
• Research Reviews: Search for reviews and owner experiences on YouTube to assess reliability and find maintenance tips.
• Used and Electric Cars: These insights are especially useful when considering used cars or electric vehicles.

What Are the Considerations for High-Performance and Luxury Cars?

High-performance and luxury cars often come with higher maintenance costs, including:

• Tyres
• Brakes
• Insurance
• Fuel

These costs can be significantly higher compared to standard vehicles. If you value performance and luxury, be prepared for these additional expenses.

How Important Is It to Choose the Right Vehicle?

Choosing the right vehicle is crucial as it impacts your satisfaction and financial investment. For example:

• An economical car might save money but may not meet your long-term needs.
• Take your time to research and select a vehicle that fits your needs and preferences to avoid making frequent changes.

What Should I Look for When Inspecting a Car?

Oil Leaks

Check where the car has been parked for signs of oil leaks. You can also look underneath the car. Oil leaks can be costly to repair and are often not covered under warranties.

Cold Start

Watch the car start from cold. Listen for unusual rattles and check for a large puff of smoke, which can indicate potential engine issues.

Service History

Ask for the service history and find out when the last service was done. Take a picture of the last service stamp and contact the service center to check if any major repairs were advised but not completed.

Timing Belt

Check if the timing belt is due for replacement. Google the intervals and costs associated with this maintenance to avoid unexpected expenses.

Bonnet and Panels

Examine the bolts on the bonnet hinges for paint damage. Cracks in the paint can indicate the panel has been removed. Look for overspray or new panels as signs of previous paintwork. While these issues don’t necessarily mean the car is a no-go, they warrant further investigation.

Should I Get a Professional Inspection?

Yes, it’s highly recommended:

• Independent Inspectors: Companies like Todd offer thorough inspections for $200-$250, often providing more detailed reports than larger companies.
• Mechanic Inspection: You can ask to take the car to your own mechanic or have your mechanic inspect it.
• Supercheap Auto Diagnostic Service: For $30 ($24 for members), this service plugs into the car’s computer to read stored faults. Historical fault codes may appear, which can indicate current or past issues.

What’s the Most Important Piece of Advice When Buying a Car?

Keep Emotions Out of the Purchase

• Emotional decisions can lead to trouble, especially when investing a significant amount in a new car.
• Slow down and take your time to evaluate if the car genuinely fits your needs and priorities.

Pre-Discussion

Have a realistic discussion with your partner about the timeframe for purchasing the car. This helps in making a well-considered decision rather than an impulsive one.

Stay Professional

Approach salespeople with respect and politeness. A friendly demeanor can foster a better relationship and often leads to more favorable deals.