Buying a Car
Choosing a car to suit your needs - Determine your needs
The very first thing to do when considering buying a car is to think about what it will be mainly used for. Some examples could include:
| For private use |
To carry animals |
| To transport people |
For towing |
| To carry a load |
Or for spare parts |
| To go camping or fishing |
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When considering the type of car you want buy you must also think about the places you will go in it and what sort of roads you will drive it on.
Choose a Car
When you decide what type of car you want and what type of conditions it will mostly travel on, the next questions is: Where do you find it?
If you live near a regional centre, you can look through several car yards. However, if you live in a remote area some other options to help you find a car to buy are:
| Look through magazines and newspapers |
| Look through the Yellow Pages under the "Motor Cars - Used" section and telephone several different car yards. Tell them what you are looking for and ask them to fax you details of any they have available. Always use a licensed motor dealer. |
| You can also ask your family and friends and look at what other people are driving. |
When choosing a car you should also consider:
· Availability of spare parts
· The cost of spare parts, and
· Availability of a good mechanic to repair and maintain your car.
| 1. Take someone with you who has some knowledge about cars and both of you check the car over thoroughly. |
| 2. Ask around before you buy. Others on your community may know a trusted car dealer. |
| 3. Make sure that the vehicle has a safety certificate. |
| 4. Be certain that the car you like is value for money. |
| 5. Make sure the contract you sign includes the same registration and engine number as on the car. |
| 6. Be careful of extended warranty sold with used cars. Check exactly what is covered and what is not covered. |
| 7. Keep contract and car papers in a safe place. Not in the glove box of the car. |
| 8. Don't sign papers you do not understand. |
| 9. Do not buy a car over the phone. |
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