best way to buy used car

Set a realistic budget that includes on-road costs, stamp duty, and a buffer for surprises, then shortlist cars by needs, not bragging rights. Compare listings on Tradingpost and elsewhere, favouring full logbooks, sensible kilometres, and fewer air-fresheners than a taxi rank. Run a PPSR check for finance owing or write-off history, and insist on a cold start test drive to catch smoke, knocks, and gearbox grumbles.

Book an independent pre-purchase inspection—worth every dollar when it saves you thousands—and confirm a current RWC if required in your state. Negotiate with recent sale data, not vibes, pay via secure transfer or bank cheque, and hand over keys only after receipt and rego transfer are sorted. Before you roll off, line up comprehensive insurance, check tyre date codes and fluids, and enjoy feeling smug for buying with your head first, heart second.