Ask an expert

We are new in NZ and looking for a reliable used car. We're not experienced in inspecting used cars so we think buying from the dealers may be more practical for us or are non-manufacturer based dealers also reliable and do they give better deals?

We are looking for something $10K or lower that can last us at least 4-5 years.

Lala

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 14 December 2009

I definitely think you are on the right track looking at cars at the main franchise dealers first. They often have used vehicles in stock which were originally sold new and serviced by them and traded on a new or updated model.

The bigger dealers are also more likely to help with minor niggles that may develop after the sale. All licensed traders (car dealers) must cover their vehicles under what is called the Consumer Guarantees Act and all vehicles they sell must be fit for purpose. Some dealers however are better to work with than others, and it's the bigger franchises that tend to get on and fix problems rather than argue.

You may pay a little more but at the moment its very much a buyer's market so most prices are negotiable.

Remember, you do not have the same protection if you buy privately. There are no guarantees and cars only have to have a Warrant of Fitness not more than one month old to be sold legally.

As I said, beginning with the known franchises is a good way to start the journey. Not to say the other options don't produce good results, but I would gravitate towards them rather than use them as a starting point.

Be careful with car fairs and auctions and always do a vehicle history report if you do buy from any source other than the bigger franchise dealers. This report will give you a heads-up on any money owing or if the vehicle has been reported stolen amongst other things.