Like anywhere else, Auckland has many reliable used vehicles for sale that are ready for purchase. However, the most significant decision when buying a used vehicle is whether to purchase from a private seller or a used car dealership. This decision is compounded by the fact that a shady seller or dealership can lie or omit important information about the used vehicle you are interested in, which is why a trustworthy seller is extremely important.
There are plenty of legal resources you could take in the instance of a scam. However, that will cost more money and a significant amount of time. Instead, it would be best if you were focusing your attention on finding reputable used car dealers. While private sellers are an option, there are plenty of NZ car dealers in Auckland, and this article will provide an overview of what to look for.
Auckland Car Dealer Testimonials
Before looking at any dealership’s inventory, check online for testimonials and reviews. Testimonials are incredibly important because they provide an unbiased review of the dealer and the cars it sells.
Websites such as Yelp, Autofile, and BuyerScore (the latter is focused on New Zealand) are good places to find testimonials. Generally, you should avoid using websites owned by the dealership, as there is a potential that the testimonials and reviews listed are fake.
Car Dealer Inventory & Quality
Once a dealership passes the smell test (good testimonials), it’s time to look at what they offer and whether it is a fair market price and of good quality. The key to a successful used car purchase not only includes the ability to choose the right type of car for you but also the ability to ensure that the car is of good quality.
Here are some factors that you should consider regarding car quality:
- Vehicle History: Check for past accidents, repairs, and ownership details. If a past accident exists, assess the damage location thoroughly.
- Exterior and Interior Condition: Look for signs of significant rust and damage on the outside and tearing, cracking, and electronics on the inside. Ensure that windows, heating, radio, etc, function properly.
- Mileage: Higher mileage equals more wear but may not be as significant if maintenance history is good.
- Engine & Transmission: Test drive the car, even slightly, to ensure smooth operation.
- Tires & Brakes: Lastly, check the tires to see if they will need to be replaced soon and the quality of the brakes during a test drive.
Car Dealership Customer Support
The last thing to look for in an Auckland car dealer is how you are treated during the buying process and what kind of support they will provide after the purchase. A dealer with strong customer support will provide you with many safety nets to improve your used car.
When buying your used car in Auckland, ensure the dealer provides the following:
- Knowledgeable Advice
- Transparent Pricing
- Test Drives
- Flexible Financing
During this, also ask about whether your new car’s warranties cover repair costs, ongoing assistance should something happen in the immediate future, and maintenance recommendations.
Bottom Line
Finding a trustworthy used car dealer in Auckland is essential to a good used-car-buying experience. Remember to evaluate dealer testimonials, inspect car inventory for quality, and assess the level of customer support offered. Whether buying your first car or upgrading your current one, focusing on the factors mentioned above will greatly benefit your Auckland used car purchase.
