MOTORING NEWS - Buying a car in South Africa is often the second biggest financial commitment you can make after a house.
Unfortunately, emotion can be the key driver to purchasing a car instead of clear thinking and research. During the holiday period many people use their time off to look into a car for the start of a new year or maybe purchasing a car as a Christmas present.
Vishal Premlall, director of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), says in these tough economic times making the wrong decision on a car purchase can be a very costly mistake. "It really pays to take the time to do research and get a professional opinion before signing any contracts or handing over payment. A contract needs to protect you as the buyer so make sure when you sign you aren't waiving your consumer rights," he says.
He advises consumers to ask what guarantees are in place. If there are no guarantees, the seller needs to be transparent about why none exist. The Consumer Protection Act is very clear regarding minimum guarantees on transactions.
"If the deal hinges on additional work being done to the car, do not conclude the deal until the work is completed. Also be very clear regarding timelines for completion of the work. When you are ready to move forward with a deal, it is advisable to pay a deposit first. When satisfied that all related work agreed upon is concluded, pay over the balance," he advises.
An important point to consider is keeping evidence, such as reducing all agreements and undertakings into writing. "This way, should you need recourse through a body like the Motor Industry Ombudsman, you have tangible proof. Verbal agreements and contracts are often difficult to prove."
Premlall gave the following tips and important questions to ask before purchasing a vehicle:
- If buying privately, spend enough time on the detail
- Before paying a deposit, ensure that all checks and balances are done
- Does the car have a current licence disc and registration papers?
- Is the car in a roadworthy condition?
- Are you dealing with the actual owner of the car?
- Has the car been modified?
- Are there any warranties and guarantees still available on the car and will this transfer on change of ownership?
- Is the car being sold for a fair price (research on the Internet)?
- Does the car have a service history that can be verified?
- Take the car for a test drive and take a car specialist with you.
- Has the vehicle been in any accidents?
- Is the mileage correct and can this be verified?
- When last was the car serviced and when last was the cambelt changed?
- Get a mechanical report on the car before concluding the deal
- Check the condition of the tyres
"Remember that if it looks too good to be true, it probably is," says Premlall. He also reminds consumers that there are professionals available to assist you with buying a car. "Sometimes a phone call is all it takes to provide added peace of mind. MIWA and the Retail Motor Industry (RMI) are available nationally and will gladly assist if you are seeking advice."
MIWA can be contacted by visiting www.miwasa.com.
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