How to safely buy second-hand cars amid rising sales

According to recent research by Grand View Research, South Africa's pre-owned car market continues to expand, with revenues reaching approximately $14.9 billion in 2024 and projected to rise to $18.3 billion by 2030. This growth is driven by South Africans seeking more affordable vehicles amid economic challenges and high fuel prices.

In contrast, the new vehicle market faced a 3.0% decline in total sales in 2024 compared to the previous year, further highlighting the shift towards pre-loved cars. Additionally, the average price of a used car in December 2024 rose to R408,516, reflecting increased demand in the pre-owned sector. Although used vehicles are an affordable solution for many consumers, buying a used car does come with both pros and cons. He explains that when deciding to purchase a used vehicle,  consumers should do the necessary due diligence to avoid pitfalls when opting for the second-hand car route.

South Africa lacks a reliable system for recording vehicle accident history, and less than 30% of vehicles are insured, meaning the quality and safety of many vehicles on the market – and the roads – are also worrying. This unfortunate trend has seen some insurers refusing to insure unsafe vehicles with others accused of being involved in fraudulent car sales, further complicating the process of buying a reliable second-hand vehicle for unsuspecting consumers.

Four steps to take as a guide when buying a second-hand car:

1.     Verify the vehicle’s history

It is crucial to request the vehicle’s history report, accident reports, service book, and previous owner’s details from the car dealership. Buyers should not solely rely on a seller’s inspection report and instead get an independent assessment to ensure the car meets safety and reliability standards. Independent assessments help declare potential issues that may not be disclosed in the seller’s report, such as prior accident damage, mechanical faults, or odometer tampering. Websites like View4You are a good option that allow consumers to have an independent assessment done on a vehicle prior to committing to the purchase.

2.     Be careful of code 3 vehicles

Code 3 vehicles are cars that have been previously written off and rebuilt. While these vehicles may be legally roadworthy, one needs to be cognisant of structural damage as this comes with safety concerns. Buyers should approach code 3 cars with extra caution and conduct a thorough assessment before proceeding with the purchase.

3.     Understand your insurance implications

Before you buy a car, make sure you have made the necessary assessments to ensure your car qualifies for comprehensive insurance and that there are no hidden liabilities. There may be exclusions or higher premiums for vehicles with prior damage or those classified as code 3. Buyers should always understand the cover they are taking on their vehicle as well as the coverage limitations, potential repair costs, and how the car’s history may impact future claims.

4.     Book a test drive and inspect thoroughly

A visual inspection is not enough; booking a test drive is important to check for any mechanical faults. A test drive allows buyers to assess engine performance, braking efficiency, steering responsiveness, and overall drivability. Additionally, inspecting the vehicle for signs of prior accidents, such as unmatched paint, panel gaps, or uneven tyre wear, can help reveal any hidden issues.

Checking for oil leaks, rust, and unusual engine noises can provide further insight into potential problems. If possible, take the vehicle to a trusted mechanic for an expert opinion to ensure it is in good condition and isn’t a potential financial burden in the long run.

As the second-hand vehicle market grows to meet the demand for a cheaper ride, buyers need to take extra precautions to avoid making a dud purchase that could become much more costly than anticipated.

* Masiye is a spokesperson at Miway Insurance.

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