Buying a second-hand car can be a smart move. You skip the new car price tag, avoid rapid depreciation, and often get a pretty decent set of wheels. But the used car market can also be a bit of a minefield—especially if you don’t know what questions to ask before handing over your hard-earned cash.
To help you steer clear of lemons and make a confident decision, here’s a list of key questions you should always ask before buying any second-hand car.
1. Why Are You Selling the Car?
This is a great starting point because it can reveal a lot. If the seller hesitates, dodges the question, or gives a vague answer like “just upgrading,” probe a little further. They might have genuine reasons—or they might be offloading a car with known issues. Keep an ear out for red flags.
2. Has the Car Ever Been in an Accident?
Some sellers won’t openly share this unless you ask. Accident history affects both the car’s value and future reliability. Minor bumper damage isn’t a huge deal, but a major collision could mean structural damage or long-term problems. Always double-check the answer with a REVS or PPSR check, which shows if the car was ever written off.
3. Do You Have the Full Service History?
A well-maintained car is a good car. If the seller has a logbook with consistent servicing, that’s a big green flag. No service records? That doesn’t necessarily mean it’s been neglected—but it does mean you’ll need to look a little closer and ask more questions.
4. Who Was the Previous Owner?
This helps you get a sense of how the car was used. Was it driven by one careful owner, a young P-plater, or a company fleet vehicle? A car that’s been through a dozen owners in a few years might raise eyebrows.
5. Are There Any Mechanical Issues Right Now?
Always ask this straight-up. Sellers are legally required to disclose faults in some states, but it’s still worth asking directly. Even if they say it runs perfectly, look out for hesitation, rushed responses, or vague language.
And if you’re mechanically savvy, inspect the car yourself or take it to a trusted mechanic for a once-over. The cost of a pre-purchase inspection could save you thousands.
6. Is the Odometer Reading Genuine?
You want to know if the kilometres on the dash are real. Clocking (winding back the odometer) is less common nowadays but still happens. Compare the odometer reading with the service records and check for signs of tampering—like worn-out pedals and steering wheels that don’t match the claimed low mileage.
7. Is There Any Finance Owing on the Car?
If there’s money still owed on the car, and you buy it, that debt could become your problem. Always run a quick PPSR check (it only costs a couple of dollars) to confirm the car isn’t under finance or stolen.
8. Is It Still Registered and Is the Rego Transferable?
If the car has current registration, ask how much time is left. Also, check if the rego is transferable in your state—especially in VIC, where transfer laws are specific. You don’t want any surprises after the sale.
9. Does It Come with a Roadworthy Certificate (RWC)?
In Victoria, a car must come with a valid Roadworthy Certificate unless it’s sold unregistered or to a wrecker. No RWC? It could mean there are mechanical issues or the seller wants to avoid fixing something. Keep in mind that getting an RWC yourself can be costly if the car needs repairs.
10. Can I Take It for a Test Drive?
Always test drive before you buy. Listen for weird noises, check how it handles, and see if everything works—windows, air con, radio, brakes, indicators, the lot. If the seller refuses a test drive, walk away.
11. What’s the VIN?
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) lets you do a background check. Cross-check it with the rego papers and run it through a PPSR check. If the VIN on the car doesn’t match the documents, that’s a massive red flag.
Final Thought
Asking the right questions before buying a second-hand car is your best defence against buying a dud. It’s not about being overly suspicious—it’s about protecting your money and making sure the car you’re buying is exactly what it seems.
If the seller’s answers line up and everything checks out, you’re probably looking at a solid buy. But if things feel off or you’re getting half-answers? It might be time to keep looking.
Thinking of selling instead? Skip the hassle of private sales and contact our team for a quick cash offer—no inspections, no pressure, just fair deals and free car removal.
If you are in Wheelers Hill, and looking for a cash for cars service, this is the best way to visit us.
Burwood Cash For Cars
www.burwoodcashforcars.com.au
(03) 7047 6732