11 years ago
So you are about to buy a car. Buying a car is exciting but also risky, particularly when emotions can cloud your judgement!
Here's a quick checklist of the things you should do to avoid buying a lemon:
1. Check the advertised vehicle details are correct
Enter the vehicle's plate in the box at the top of this page and we'll bring up the basic details free!
2. Get a Vehicle Information Report (VIR)
A VIR is an instant report which checks the car's history, including whether there is money owing. If you buy a car with money owing it could be repossessed!
Enter the car's plate in the white box at the top of this page to get started.
3. Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection
VTNZ will do a mechanical check for only $100 and a full check including interior and exterior for just $135. Book online here.
4. Document the purchase in writing
A proper Purchase Agreement will help to protect your deposit should you not be paying in full and will help protect you should anything go wrong after the sale.
We provide a free personalised Purchase Agreement with every VIR sold.
5. Change the ownership
We recommend changing the ownership online, it's quick and easy.
Change a car's ownership here: https://transact.nzta.govt.nz/transactions/NoticeOfDisposal/entry.aspx
The above checklist is based around buying a car privately as there is more risk. You should consider buying from a dealer as you are protected by the Consumer Guarantees Act. Here's a great summary on car buyer rights written by Consumer.
