hi

What are the pros and cons of buying cars second hand??

dealer vs private

other half has greater than average knowledge on cars, but do you get extras eg guarantees from dealers???

many thanks

Hi!
I am wondering about exactly the same questions. From my research and from what my friends in Melbourne told me, when you are buying from dealer you usually get warranty and road side assistance for one year. But the price is 2-3K higher for above 10K cars. Other than warranty there is no reason to buy it from dealer.

I bought a 10 year old Ford Laser from a dealer here in Adelaide 14 month ago. I got 3 year warranty with it - not had any problems at all with the car

Whether you get a warranty included in the price, or you have to buy your own will depend on the dealer and the car etc. Just don't let them make you spend more than you want to - I stuck to my budget even though I was there for over a hour with him trying to get an extra $1,500 out of me I stood up to walk out twice

Which state are you interested in? Each state has different laws, particularly as regards compulsory warranty and roadworthyness certificates.

I bought a cheap banger ($1500) back in 2004 when I thought I was only going to be in Brisbane for a few months. Turned out the roadworthy certificate was a dud - cost me another $1500 to get the car fixed.

I had exactly the same problem with a private purchase when I'd newly arrived in Melbourne. Roadworthy was a dud and cost me about $1500 too - and he had the nerve to ask for his Elton John CD back!

Never liked the car since!

My hubby bought a new(ish) car, and that cost him $1500 to fix up too.

I've bought two older second hand cars so far, (a 1992 Barina to learn to drive in for $4k and the above mentioned 2001 Ford Laser for $10k) and not had to change so much as a light bulb yet! Maybe I should come with you when you buy your car?