Need a new ride? Unfortunately, today’s new car prices are at an all-time high—the average vehicle now costs about 41% more than before the pandemic. If you want to save a bit more cash, consider buying a used car in Sydney instead.
Nevertheless, buying a second-hand car means you don’t know what you’re getting until you drive it. So before closing the deal, make sure to conduct a thorough inspection:
- Vehicle History
First things first—check the vehicle’s history. You can ask the current owner for more information on the car, but if they’re making it difficult for you, run its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) through the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR). The service is online, and it only costs $2.
A VIN check can help you avoid the risks involved in buying used vehicles, alerting you if it has been written off or stolen. However, the service won’t be able to tell you about a car’s odometer reading or any outstanding fines—you’ll need to ask the owner for these details.
- Exterior damage
After running a VIN check, ask the owner if you can see the vehicle in person. This is your chance to conduct a more thorough inspection, starting with the exterior. Walk around the car and look for any signs of deterioration, such as rusting or paint chips.
In addition, take a look at the vehicle’s wheels and tyres. Its tyre tread should be evenly worn—any extra wear could be due to poor alignment.
- Frame issues
While checking for rust or paint damage, also examine the car’s frame. For instance, is it sitting level on the ground with nothing hanging off the undercarriage? Look at the bumpers, searching for signs of a recent collision.
- Under the hood
For this next step, make sure the car is turned off. You’ll need to open the hood and check the engine, looking for signs of fluid leaks, corrosion, and cracked hoses and belts. It’s also best to examine the oil and transmission fluid for discolouration, which should be light brown and red, respectively.
- Mileage
One of the riskier things about buying used cars in Sydney is that they have already racked up a lot of mileage. High mileage means a vehicle will have more wear and tear on its mechanical components, possibly requiring repairs sooner rather than later.
As a result, you should consider buying vehicles with low mileage. A good rule of thumb is about 20,000 km (12,000 mi) per year.
What if you were planning to sell a used car in Sydney? To save time, consider going to Metal Force Recycling! We will buy any type of vehicle, no matter its year, make, and model, offering up to $9000 depending on its condition.
Our company also offers free pick-up services from anywhere in Sydney—call us at 0403 191 732 to book an appointment!