New or Used Car

Michael McLeod, the proprietor of Ultra Tune in Coffs Harbour shares with us his recommendations for those looking to buy a new or used vehicle.

Important considerations when looking to purchase a new car:

• Keep at the forefront of your mind the intended use for the vehicle. Is it a family car, a work vehicle, something for the weekends or a first car for your son or daughter? Once this is thought through, factor in all of the running costs such as rego, insurance, servicing, tyres etc.
• ‘Extras’ thrown in from the car manufacturer also need to be considered such as capped price servicing, free servicing and roadside assistance.
• Think about how long you intend to keep the vehicle. For example, all Kia models come with a 7-year warranty. For those looking at keeping the vehicle for only a few years, a vehicle with a standard 3-year warranty may be more practical.
• Finally, don’t be afraid to negotiate before contracts are signed. Some of my customers have saved thousands when they’ve purchased a new car either by way of many extras included at no added cost or having negotiated a better price for their new vehicle. Remember, if you don’t ask, you’ll never know. What have you got to lose? Or better yet, consider what there may be to gain!

Important considerations when looking to purchase a second-hand vehicle:

• Again, keep top of mind the general purpose for buying the vehicle. Once this is decided, look carefully at the service history. A well-maintained vehicle generally lasts longer than a poorly maintained one!
• An inspection carried out by a reputable workshop is a must. This will result in any concerns being brought to the purchaser’s attention BEFORE buying the vehicle. Over the past 17 years in this trade, I’ve been astonished by the amount of people who’ve purchased a vehicle without an inspection. It’s rare for purchasers to buy a car without any issues – they’re very fortunate if they do. Most of the time a vehicle will have issues that can end up costing the purchaser thousands of dollars – costs easily avoided had they arranged an inspection prior to purchasing.
• Prior to purchase, do checks to ensure that the vehicle has not been written-off or does not have existing finance on it.
• Check the rego expiry date and double-check the rego is not in the name of a pensioner. If you are purchasing from a pensioner and are not one yourself, you will incur additional charges when transferring the rego to your own name.
• Depending on the age of the vehicle, its intended use and condition, there are likely to be good savings possible on the asking price so be sure to negotiate.