Tip 1
Demo cars are hidden gems.
Demo vehicles, the ones dealerships use for test drives or display, are often drastically cheaper than brand-new equivalents, yet come with very low kilometres and a full manufacturer’s warranty. They’re registered as new, so you still get that new-car feel, just without the full new-car price tag. Because dealerships don’t always advertise their demo stock online, it pays to ask sales staff directly if any are available. You can also check dealership websites for a dedicated demo section or search car sales sites by filtering for ‘demo’ vehicles to spot current offers.
Tip 2
Always run an accident history check.
From as little as $2, you can look up whether a used car has been in a reported accident – a small price to pay for serious peace of mind. Use trusted services like the official PPSR (Personal Property Securities Register) or CarHistory. These providers can reveal if a vehicle has been written off, stolen, or has money owing on it. Never skip this step, no matter how good the listing looks.
Tip 3
Buy for your needs, not your wants.
It’s easy to fall in love with a car that’s bigger, flashier, or more loaded with features than you actually need. But those extras add up – not just at purchase, but in insurance, fuel, and servicing costs over time. Be honest about how you’ll actually use the car: daily commute, family trips, weekend adventures? Match the vehicle to your life, not your wish list.
Tip 4
Negotiate on extras
Dealerships want your business – and that gives you leverage. Get quotes from multiple dealers on the same make and model, then let each one know you’re shopping around. When you’re close to a deal, negotiate on the extras: floor mats, tinted windows, free servicing, extended warranty, or a tank of fuel. Dealers often can’t go lower on price but have room to move on add-ons.
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