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Essential checks


Essential checks

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There are a few essential checks you need to make before buying a used car

Insist the seller provides proof of identity (i.e. a driver's licence) and the car's certificate of registration. Check the names and addresses match, and make a note of the details (including the driver's licence number) for future reference.

Good advice - If possible inspect the car and negotiate the sale at the seller's home address, as printed on the driver's licence and certificate of registration.

Check no money is owed on the car

If you buy privately, make sure the car isn't subject to a financial liability. If you buy a car with such a liability, it could be repossessed by a finance company.

The Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) is an online register of all personal property that has security interests registered against it.This is where you can find out if the car you're interested in purchasing has any outstanding financial liabilities, if the vehicle has been reported as stolen or a write-off.

For a small fee PPRS will provide a certificate stating the car is unencumbered, which can prevent repossession by a credit provider. Even after gaining a 'clear title', there can never be a 100% guarantee that the car you're buying will not be repossessed by someone other than a credit provider. More information can be found on PPSR.

Vehicle History Check - On-line (Provided by RTA)

In addition to the written-off vehicle information, this service provides details of a car's history including the number of previous owners, when it was first registered in NSW and odometer readings. View more on Vehicle history checks.

The site also provides motorists with basic information about a car's registration and CTP insurance status for free.

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