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Hi Jack,

This is the first time for me to buy a used car in NZ. Would you be able to please advise the process and the important things or papers I need ask from the dealer before making the payment?

Thanks,

If you are buying from a Registered Motor Vehicle Trader (Dealer) then they should take care of all the required paper work for you.

From our experience however, some Dealers are better than others so make sure any car you are interested in buying is displaying a Consumer Information Notice (CIN) and you have read it thoroughly before committing to purchase.

Details on the CIN should align with what the salesperson is telling you about the car.

By law, all Registered Motor Vehicle Traders must prominently display the CIN on any used motor vehicles they are selling unless they are selling to another registered motor vehicle trader or a licensed car wrecker.

Information displayed should include details such as but not exclisve to; the Dealer selling the vehicle, asking price (including any associated costs), vehicle details (engine size, vehicle age, odometer reading, make and model etc) and any money owing on the vehicle.

If you are looking at a used import and it was imported as a damaged vehicle this should also be displayed along with dates of first and last registration overseas.

A warrant of Fitness not more than one month old should be a given but it doesn’t hurt to check before taking delivery.

Buying from a Dealer provides you with protection under the Consumer Guarantees Act which means the vehicle must be fit for purpose at time of sale.

It's a safe way to buy your first car in NZ however, if the Dealer starts to tell you reasons why they do not abide by the CGA or their vehicles have limited and specific warranties then walk away.