Buying a pre-owned car: things to look out for

Thinking of buying a pre-owned car? You’re not alone. With the rising costs of new cars, buying a second-hand car is a popular choice for South Africans. But while pre-owned cars can offer great value, it’s important to make sure you’re not overlooking any details that could cost you more in the long run.

Let’s look at the most important things you need to check before you buy a second-hand car and how your choice can affect your insurance premiums.

Key things to consider when buying a pre-owned car

When buying a used car, you need to consider factors that impact both the car’s reliability and your overall experience. This is why it’s necessary to understand the car’s history, condition, and likely future costs.

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Be sure to check out the car’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). You can find it on the car’s licence disc. It holds key information about the car, such as its make, model, year, variant, engine size, and country of manufacture. It also shows if the car is flagged by the police (SAPS), for example, if it’s reported as stolen.

Full service history

You’ll need to check the car’s service history. This is a big one. A well-maintained car is less likely to have mechanical problems. Cars that are regularly serviced are also cheaper to insure, so make sure you see proof of maintenance and repairs.

Accident history

No one wants to drive a car that’s been in a big accident, but it can be hard to know unless you ask. Make sure you ask the seller if the car has ever been in an accident and get details about any repairs. A car with an accident history can affect your future insurance premiums, so it’s a good idea to know what you’re dealing with upfront.

Wear and tear

Even the best-maintained cars will show some wear and tear. Take a good look at the tyres, brakes, and the interior. Are the tyres looking a bit worn out? Are the brakes still in good shape? What about the seats and dashboard? Worn-out tyres or brakes can be expensive to replace and might affect your safety.

If something does look like it might need replacing soon, that’s something to factor into your decision. Not only could it cost you, but it might also affect your safety and insurance costs.

Take the car for a test drive

A test drive is essential. This is where you get a feel for how the car performs. Take note of any strange noises, rough handling, or vibrations. The car should feel smooth and comfortable to drive. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t be afraid to walk away and keep looking.

Understanding the financial side of buying a pre-owned car

Before you get too excited about your choice of car, it’s necessary to also take a moment to understand the financial side of things. Make sure to review the “offer to purchase” document carefully and check that the terms of the deal are clear.

If you’re planning to finance the car, be aware that interest rates on used cars might be a bit higher than on new ones. Also, remember there are extra costs like registration, transfer fees, and, of course, your monthly insurance premium, so be sure to factor these into your budget.

How the choice of car affects your car insurance

The make, model, year, and accident history of a car all play a role in how much you’ll pay for car insurance. For example, newer or high-performance cars may cost more to insure.

To get the most value out of a pre-owned car, choose one that’s affordable both to buy and to insure. Prime South Africa offers customisable insurance options, so you’re sure to find the right coverage at the right price for the car.

The benefits of comprehensive coverage

When buying a used vehicle, comprehensive coverage is a good idea. It might cost a bit more, but it’s definitely worth it for the peace of mind. This is because comprehensive insurance covers more than just accidents – it protects you against theft, fire, and even damage from hail. It’s a wise investment that can save you a lot of money in the long run.

Before you buy your pre-owned car

Buying a pre-owned car can be a great choice if you know what to look for. Remember to check the car’s service history, accident record, and overall condition. A test drive is also essential so you can make sure the car performs well.

Ready to protect your pre-owned car? Get a free online car insurance quote from Prime to explore our different types of car insurance.

Disclaimer

This article provides general information on what you need to check before buying a pre-owned car in South Africa. Remember to always read each policy carefully before purchasing any car insurance cover.

Buying car insurance should be done with much thought and only from a certified financial services provider.

Contact us today to learn more about getting affordable, comprehensive car insurance with fixed premiums* and a reduce-to-zero excess*. *T&Cs apply