Buying Cars during lockdown

Here we go again, another lockdown! We are with you; lockdowns are a pain. Over the past 2 years COVID 19 has thrown a spanner in the works for many things we love. One of the industries effected by COVID is buying a brand new car.

With lockdowns looking to be part of the norm for the foreseeable future the way we will buy cars will look like a shadow of what it was in the past.

As millions of Australians are plunged into lockdown, owning a vehicle is now a necessity. But for many Australians buying a car during lockdown can be daunting.

Here’s what you need to know before buying a car during lockdown.

1. Research

With the vast majority of Australia plunged into lockdown we have a lot of time on our hands. The first thing car buyers need to do is research the market.

Identify your primary use of the car? Is the car for work purposes? or Is it just to get you from point a to point b?

2. Identify the model you want

One of the biggest mistakes many car buyers make is not having a clear idea of the car they want. This often leads to them making a purchase they are not 100% sold on. The problem with doing this is if you decide to sell the car later you could lose thousands in depreciation.

Once you have pinpointed the particular model you want to purchase its important to research what that particular model is selling for. This way it gives you a great understanding of what you should be paying and what the average price is in the market.

3. Get pre-approval

It can be really demoralising investing your emotions into a particular car only to find out later that it is out of your reach. When you are looking to buy a car, it is highly recommended that you get pre-approved for car finance.

Pre-approval is so helpful as it gives you a detailed outline on how much you can afford to borrow. 

4. Reach out to multiple sellers

After you know how much you can spend reach out to multiple sellers. Ask for more information and see what they can offer. A big mistake many car buyers make is going with the first car they come across unaware other sellers may be offering something better.

5. Request a Car History and PPSR Report

Car History and PPSR Reports are vital for all car buyers! It can be all the difference between buying a great car and buying a lemon. Buying a car is one of the biggest financial investments we make, so you will want to be sure that you are getting the best bang for your buck.

A Car History and PPSR report tells car buyers the past history of the car, if there is any finance owed on the vehicle, and all information recorded under the VIN (Vehicle identification number). One of the benefits of buying a car from a car dealer is you can often receive PPSR and car history reports free of charge.

To read more about car history and PPSR reports click here.

6. Book in a test drive

This is where things get a little bit tricky.  Due to the current lockdowns, arranging a test drive is difficult. That doesn’t mean that you cannot arrange for a future date.

Once you have settled on the car you want to buy book in principal time with the dealership or private seller. This shows that you are interested in the deal put forward and you are keen on a future purchase.

Options to purchase

If you are 100% sold on a car you are still able to click and collect a vehicle during lockdown restrictions. If you do decide to purchase a car this way you should use the upmost caution.

It is highly recommended prior to paying any money for a car that you seek third party mechanic advice to minimise your risks.

Final Word,

Lockdown has only escalated the demand for high quality used cars. As Australians shun public transport and new car production reducing overseas - used cars are now the go to for all car buyers.

Before you look to purchase a car, it is strongly encouraged you assess all the in and outs of the vehicle and consult with all relevant parties to ensure you make the best buying decision.

We hope you enjoyed reading this article. To read more articles like this, please visit the Shop for Cars latest news page here.

About Shop for Cars,

Shop for Cars is Australia’s first car dealership-only online classified. Shop for Cars brings you the best quality new and used vehicles from trusted motor dealers Australia wide. Shop for Cars currently has over 12,500 cars listed for sale all from licensed Motor Vehicle Dealers ONLY.

Click here to begin your search.

DISCLAIMER: This is all based on opinion please research and consult with all relevant parties to make the best buying decision.