Buying a Car — A simple guide
Buying a Car — What to Know
A simple guide backed by official Australian government resources.
✅ 1. Know Your Consumer Rights
You have automatic consumer guarantees when buying from a licensed dealer.
Cars must be of acceptable quality, match the description, and come with clear title.
🔗 ACCC – Consumer Rights for Car Buyers:
https://www.accc.gov.au/business/specific-products-and-activities/buying-hiring-and-repairing-cars
✅ 2. Understand State-Based Rules
NSW dealers must comply with the Motor Dealers & Repairers Act.
Private sales offer fewer protections.
🔗 NSW Government – Buying a Used Vehicle:
https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/buying-and-selling-vehicles/buying-a-used-vehicle
✅ 3. Budget for Ownership Costs
Consider rego, insurance, servicing, repairs & tyres — not just purchase price.
🔗 WA Government – Car Buyer Checklist:
https://www.consumerprotection.wa.gov.au/publications/buying-car-buyers-checklist
✅ 4. Check Vehicle Safety Ratings
Review Used Car Safety Ratings (UCSR) before shortlisting.
🔗 UCSR via NSW Government:
https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/buying-and-selling-vehicles/buying-a-used-vehicle
✅ 5. Verify Vehicle History (VERY Important)
Check for money owing, stolen records, or write-off history.
🔗 National PPSR Check:
https://www.ppsr.gov.au
🔗 Service NSW – PPSR Info:
https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/referral/personal-property-securities-register
✅ 6. Inspect & Test Drive
Drive the car, check braking, performance, noise, and feel.
Get a mechanical pre-purchase inspection from a licensed mechanic.
🔗 NSW – Pre-purchase Inspection Advice:
https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/buying-and-selling-vehicles/buying-a-used-vehicle
✅ 7. Check for Open Recalls
Ensure there are no outstanding safety recalls on the vehicle.
🔗 NSW – Recall Checks:
https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/buying-and-selling-vehicles/buying-a-used-vehicle
✅ 8. Confirm Paperwork & Ownership
Request logbook, service history, receipts, proof of ownership & all keys.
For dealer sales: ensure you receive a Motor Dealer Notice (Form 5-10).
🔗 Consumer Protection WA – Buying a Used Car:
https://www.consumerprotection.wa.gov.au/buying-used-car
❗ 9. Avoid Scams & Suspicious Listings
Be cautious with extremely low prices or sellers unwilling to meet in person.
Use only the official PPSR website (many 3rd-party sites overcharge).
🔗 NSW – Buying Online Safety Tips:
https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/buying-and-selling-vehicles/where-to-buy-a-vehicle
✅ 10. After You Buy
Transfer registration immediately.
Arrange compulsory CTP insurance.
Store invoices, PPSR certificate & inspection report safely.
🔗 NSW – Transfer Ownership:
https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/buying-and-selling-vehicles/buying-a-used-vehicle