A tougher economic climate worldwide, and in South Africa, has forced many consumers to reconsider their spending pattern – including the purchase of vehicles.<\/p>\n
The Automobile Association (AA) warns that while more consumers are considering buying used vehicles, they must be savvy when making these purchases as they come with more risk.<\/p>\n
According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa), industry sales in the first half of 2016 were 10,6% lower as against the same period last year. In June this year 44,939 new vehicles were sold, 5,300 less than in 2015.<\/p>\n
Wesbank data shows that application volumes for new vehicles is more than half that of user vehicle applications – 38,343<\/strong>, versus 89,390<\/strong>.<\/p>\n The AA says it predicts a spike in used car sales with consumers seeking more affordable options.<\/p>\n \u201cWhile buying a second-hand vehicle is a good option for many, buyers need to be aware that there are also pitfalls; there may be mechanical problems, body damage, replacement parts may be harder to source, and warranty benefits will expire sooner. It\u2019s important that buyers conduct proper research, compare prices, and not rush into the first good deal they come across,\u201d the AA said.<\/p>\n The AA said it is important that buyers shop around for used vehicles by scanning online car websites, scouring classified advertisements, consulting buyer\u2019s guides, and visiting car lots to compare prices of makes and models they are interested in.<\/p>\n Start with your budget, look at your cash flow, and, if you need finance, determine how much you can afford to repay. From there, look at the cost of the car that you can afford and how much debt you are willing to take on and do not deviate from this.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s important that you have a look at the car in daylight, inspect every inch of it, and take it for a test drive. If possible, have someone with mechanical insight take a look at the engine. For even more peace of mind buyers can take the car to their nearest AA Quality Assured specialist or Dekra centre for a bumper-to-bumper once over before they make their final decision,\u201d the AA said.<\/p>\n Other items to check for when buying a used car include:<\/p>\n \u201cThis is not a definitive list but it may be a good starting point. Also always insist on the car\u2019s paperwork and service record as this will also give you some idea of the car\u2019s history and how well it has been cared for. Be careful of making hasty decisions; rather walk away from a deal than rush into something that you will regret, and always stick to your budget,\u201d the AA advised.<\/p>\n The association also warned that a roadworthy certificate (RWC) is not a guarantee that the car is problem-free. It is a document that simply states that the vehicle meets the minimum statutory requirements in terms of safety, such as brakes, suspension and lights. A car could have a RWC and still have a mechanical problem.<\/p>\n New vs used car sales in South Africa<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n
More on motoring in SA<\/h3>\n