Buying a Used Car: Dealership vs. Private

Are you looking at purchasing a used car and don’t know where to start? When it comes to purchasing a used car, you have two choices: heading to a dealership or purchasing from a private seller. While there is no right or wrong choice, there are a number of things you need to consider before signing the dotted line. Whether you would rather have a warranty for peace of mind or you don’t mind taking a risk in the hunt for a bargain, buying a car is a difficult decision. To make things a little easier, we’ve got a few pros and cons for purchasing a car from a dealership versus private sellers.

Cost

When it comes to purchasing a car from a dealer, the prices are often higher than that of a private seller. This is generally because they have a reputation for being safer, provide warranties and will often cover any other fees that come with buying a used car. You will need to weigh up whether all these extras are worth the added costs when making your decision.

Bargaining

When using a dealership, they will often set their asking price a little higher so they have room for negotiating. When you attempt to barter any further, used car salesman notoriously drive a hard bargain. Also, at a dealership you can trade in your vehicle or sweeten the deal with added car features. As for private, they are easier to barter with and can often be in a situation where they need to sell, giving you leverage.

Stranger danger

While most private sellers you deal with are friendly, at the end of the day they are complete strangers. You never know whether you’re going to get someone who is trustworthy and cooperative or rude and deceptive. Used car salesman on the other hand are trained in sales and customer service and know how to make a potential buyer feel at ease.

Warranties

Dealerships will often offer warranties for your vehicle, so you can have peace of mind for your new purchase—this does come at a cost though. As for private sales, you’re more likely to grab a bargain, but you want to make sure you give your vehicle a good pre-purchase inspection if you want to avoid a lemon.

Paperwork

There are a range of motor vehicle duty and transfer fees that need to be paid to the Department of Transport when purchasing from a private seller. As for a dealership, they will take care of all the paperwork for you and in many cases you can just drive away.

Visit a mechanic

Whether you want a logbook service so your warranty isn’t void or you need a pre-purchase inspection to find any hidden nasties, you’re going to need a mechanic. Fortunately, we’ve found reputable mechanics in Wollongong and the mechanics in Southern Highlands that are just a phone call away.

Wollongong

Rel Auto Repairs

From registration inspections to logbook servicing, come on down to Rel Auto Repairs for all your mechanical needs. Are you due for a new set of tyres? These qualified mechanics will be happy to provide you with some fresh tyres and give you a wheel alignment while they’re at it. Whether you need a general mechanical repair or you want a tune up, you’ll be blown away by the comprehensive range of services at Rel Auto Repairs.
Where: Unit 3/7–9 Princes Hwy Fairy Meadow NSW

Southern Highlands

Mittagong Mechanical Repairs

With more than 10 years in the industry, Mittagong Mechanical Repairs are the most trusted mechanics in the Southern Highlands region. Whether you need new a new battery, your brakes machined or want a routine service, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re in the capable hands of the experts at Mittagong Mechanical Repairs. Servicing everything from 4-wheel drives and trailers to light trucks and caravans, the experienced team here have seen it all! If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable mechanic, you can’t go past Mittagong Mechanical Repairs.
Where: Cavendish St & Davy St Mittagong NSW

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