This is a short buying guide for used car sales in Australia. Australia is a vast country and continent where it certainly pays to have a reliable vehicle. All around Australia there are a number of used outlets where it is possible to purchase a vehicle as well as website´s like Gumtree and eBay for dealers and private sellers alike. Whether you are a traveller or resident it is important to consider a few important points before buying a used vehicle.
Australia´s Driving Conditions
Australia´s climate varies greatly and can include rich grass lands, deserts, snowy mountains and tropical marshes. When considering what vehicle to purchase you should think about the type of terrain and environment that the vehicle will need to endure. The foremost favourite vehicle in Australia is the versatile 4x4 such as the Land-cruiser that can handle many different environments safely. However many people enjoy the V8 power cruisers that the Australian made manufacturer "Holden" offers. If you will only be driving around town you may be a little less selective when it comes to determining what vehicle to choose. Do keep in mind though, that with summer temperatures ranging up to 50°c it is important to choose a car that can handle the heat; many European based models were not built to endure these temperatures over long periods. With the tough Australian conditions you must be sure to inspect any engine for signs of damage or corrosion.
Fuel Economy for Long Journey´s
Fuel economy is a very important aspect to consider when looking for a used car in Australia. Due to the size of the country there are many locations that require a lot of driving to reach. If you choose a thirsty vehicle you may find your wages disappear by the km. The newer models will be more economical but even so there are many v6 and v8 petrol guzzlers on offer which may be tempting. Keep in mind that if you are driving into the outback, the price of fuel will rise drastically.
Rego & Registration
All vehicles in Australia require "rego and registration" of which are subject to different rules and regulations for each state. Without either it is not legal to drive the vehicle and it will be in your best interest to make sure the vehicle comes with the minimum of 3 months rego and registration. In most states the car will be subject to a safety examination to be able to pass for the registration, so keep this in mind if the car has any repairs or maintenance tasks that need completing.
Don´t be Afraid to Haggle
People have paid thousands of dollars for a vehicle that only lasted a year while others have paid only a few hundred dollars and have had the vehicle for ages. When you have chosen your desired vehicle, take some time to study the market and access how much the vehicle is worth. Many dealers and private sellers are willing to drop the price (even if only a little) and so it will pay to haggle a little. Be sure to keep in mind any minor repairs that need completing before making an offer.
