buying a car without roadworthy Page 8975

Buying a car without a roadworthy? Legal to purchase, sure—but you generally can’t transfer or register it until it passes your state or territory’s required inspection. Drive it unregistered and you’ll cop fines, no matter how heroic your “just a quick spin” sounds. Budget for repairs and the inspection fee, and factor in towing or a permit to move it. Do a PPSR check, verify the VIN and engine numbers, and get a pre-purchase inspection so your bargain doesn’t become a parts-bin romance. If the seller says “just needs a RWC,” translate that as “you’ll be fixing it,” then negotiate accordingly.