ALT-1 Keys to Buying a used Car
The best thing to do when looking to buy a car is to do your homework first and do not make any hasty decisions, as these may cost you thousands of dollars!
One of the best ways to start is to make a list of all the things you want in a car. E.g. sedan, automatic, air bags, year made etc. Next decide on the price which must fit in with your budget. E.g. Between $5,000 and $10,000. Your key sources of information include friends and family, dealers, newspapers, trading posts, internet, car websites such as Autotrader.com and car publications.
Now it is time to choose at least 3 models that meet your criteria. For example you may choose a 2000-2001: Holden Astra, Honda Civic or Honda Accord because they have all the features you want, meet the price restraints and you like the look of the cars.
The next thing to do is to go on a very handy website which tells you the expected price of these models so you know exactly what you should pay. This very helpful website is www.redbookasiapacific.com/au.
It is then a good idea to find out the locations of dealers, which you should then visit to test drive the cars and to see what is available. This is just an information gathering exercise as it is often best to buy privately to save money, as there is more of a chance to bargain down the price in a private sale. While at the dealerships be sure to ask plenty of questions and practice bargaining down the price. However, be aware that putting an offer in writing will commit you to buying the car if the dealer accepts.
After visiting several dealers you can check out the private sales as you are now in a good position to buy. To save money and to increase your negotiating power it is often a good idea to carry the exact amount of money you want to spend, so you can make an offer right there and then. People are more inclined to accept an offer when the money is put right in front of them. Be sure that the car you are ready to buy has a road worthy certificate, full service history and take it for a test drive. Before the test drive check under the hood of the car. Look for simple things such as the water and oil. If they are empty this may indicate that the car was not looked after. It is also a good idea to check for any leaks which may indicate other problems. These leaks may be in or around the car. During the test drive have the radio off so you can hear how the car runs. Check the breaks, lights and accelerate to understand the performance potential of the car. Look for any flashing lights which may indicate a problem with the engine. Test the air conditioning and heat as the reduced functionality of these can indicate other problems. When the car is parked, test the radio, CD player and other features such as electric windows. If you are still unsure you can pay for a RAC (Australian car road worthy report) or some other equivalent in your State, to ease the mind.
Remember to really do your research, the more knowledge you have, the more confident you will be and you will be in a better position to buy the car of your dreams for the right price.
