Buyer's Checklist
If you’re shopping for a second-hand car, don’t be blinded by the bling! Make sure you check it over thoroughly and know all your rights.
We’ve got a comprehensive Car Buyer’s Guide to walk you through all the pitfalls and explain the jargon. For a free copy, contact us and we’ll post one out to you or visit your nearest RACQ Branch.
View online Car Buyer's Guide
Some of the things you need to know:
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Make sure there is no outstanding finance owing on the vehicle, or if it has been stolen or in an accident. There may be a small cost involved, but it’s worth it.
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Check that the vehicle has a Safety Certificate issued by Queensland Transport. The dealer or the seller has to provide this to you. |
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Check that the vehicle is currently registered and ask to see the owner’s driver’s licence to ensure the seller is the owner of the car (for private sales). If the seller can’t produce registration papers, then contact Queensland Transport on 13 2380 and they can check it out for you. |
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Obtain an RACQ Vehicle Inspection to ensure the vehicle is in sound mechanical condition (this is different to a Safety Certificate). |
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Inspect the vehicle thoroughly and take along someone else to assist you. Print this checklist and take it to the inspection with you. |
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If you’re taking the car for a test drive, make sure you ask the dealer or the seller about your liability if an accident should occur. |
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Complete a Vehicle Transfer Form and submit this with the Safety Certificate, vehicle registration duty and transfer fee to Queensland Transport within 14 days after the date of sale (for private sales). You will have to pay the vehicle registration duty, which is determined by the vehicle's fuel type or number of engine cylinders/rotors. Make sure you budget for this. |
