Thinking About Buying a Second-hand Car? Here Are Your Top Answers
Buying a car is a huge decision, and buying a second-hand car is even more stressful. Know exactly what to look out for, what’s a deal or just a scam, or if you should just bite the bullet and get a new car. These are all questions that you may be asking yourself, and we’ve got all the answers here to make your decision that much easier.
1. What to check when you buy a second-hand car?
Before you buy a second-hand car, there are a few things you must check to safeguard yourself from a dodgy purchase. Be sure to check the:
Exterior
Interior
Engine
Paperwork
Sound and feel of the car
2. How do I inspect a used car myself?
Check a used car by taking a careful and thorough look at it, both inside and out. Look for mismatched paint or uneven panels that might suggest an accident. Start the engine, listen for any weird noises, and test all the electronics. Inspect the interior for any damage. Peek under the hood at the engine and check the oil and battery. Don’t forget to check the tyres too!
3. How to know if a used car is in good condition?
Check that all the exterior panels fit well, and look for rust. Make sure the interior is clean and all electronics work. The engine should start smoothly without leaks or odd noises, and the brakes must respond reliably. Ensure the paperwork matches the VIN and includes service records. For peace of mind, get a mechanic to inspect the car before you buy it.
4. What is a reasonable mileage for a used car?
A reasonable mileage depends on the car's make, model, and how well it's been maintained. A good rule of thumb is to aim for under 12,000 miles a year for petrol cars and around 10,000 miles for diesel ones.
5. How many kilometres is too many for a used car?
If a vehicle has clocked over 200,000 km, give it a closer look. The maintenance history matters more than just the mileage. A car with 220,000 km that's well cared for will perform better than one with only 120,000 km but poor maintenance. Always focus on the service history and mechanical condition.
6. Which brands are reliable when buying a used car?
7. What are the hidden fees when buying a used car?
There are a few hidden fees you should be aware of when buying a used car. You might face costs like transfer and licensing fees, roadworthy tests, registration, dealership admin charges, and surprise repairs like tyres, brakes, or a battery. Don’t forget about insurance and maybe a pre-purchase inspection too.
8. What are the disadvantages of buying a car with high mileage?
The disadvantages of buying a car with high mileage are:
More wear and tear on the car’s components
Higher chance of major repairs needed
Little to no warranty coverage
Poor resale value
9. What to do if a used car has a tracking device installed?
If there’s already a tracking device, check if it’s active and who it’s registered to. It might still be linked to the previous owner or their finance provider. Call the tracking company to confirm ownership and ask for a transfer or removal if needed. In South Africa, the best move is to activate it in your name or get a new one from a trusted provider like Cartrack for full control and safety.
10. How can Cartrack’s tracking device help protect a second-hand car from theft?
Cartrack’s tracking device helps protect a second-hand car from theft by providing you with real-time tracking, 24/7 support and recovery services, and CarWatch (not part of the base subscription) that gives you virtual eyes on your vehicle at all times.
11. Which month is best for buying a used car?
The best months to buy a used car are from October to December. That’s because this is the time of the year that dealerships are hustling to meet their annual sales goals, as well as having year-end specials.
12. Should I install a Cartrack tracking device immediately after buying a second-hand car?
Yes, you should definitely install a Cartrack tracking device immediately after buying a second-hand car. This will not only ensure that your new asset is protected from theft from day one, but that you can also enjoy the benefits of lowered insurance premiums.
