Ask an expert

I am looking to buy a late model low mileage used car. Do I need a pre-purchase inspection with Toyota Signature Class cars and used vehicles from other main franchise dealers?

Judy

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 8 August 2009

It's all about reducing risk. Buying from a Signature or a known franchise dealer is a great start and it does provide you with the added comfort that if there are problems after the sale, then they will get sorted out under the Consumers Guarantee's Act.

Having a pre-purchase inspection allows for an independent check and will provide you with a comprehensive report on the mechanical condition of the vehicle.

Sometimes it is best you know the mechanical condition before you buy rather than have the hassle and inconvenience of finding things out later even though they may be fixed at no cost to you.

While many car salespeople get unfairly tagged at times for being untrustworthy, it is human nature for any salesperson to always sell the benefits and keep away from any negatives when negotiating a sale.

Also remember most car salespeople are not mechanics and are selling a product based on its presentation and items such as service history, mileage and reliability record. They are also selling from a yard full of cars and every now and then there will be a bad apple in the bunch.

It's definitely a buyer's market at the moment, so to cover your bases fully, I would be asking for a pre-purchase check and ask the dealer to pay for it.

Never forget, it's impossible to offend a car salesperson and always be prepared to walk away if they say no to such a request. In most cases they won't let you leave the yard and provided your demands are reasonable they will have a change of mind.