buying a second hand car south australia Page 49

Buying a second-hand car in South Australia? Start by setting a realistic budget that includes stamp duty, a transfer fee, insurance, and whatever your future self will swear was “just a small service”.

Run a PPSR check to ensure there’s no finance owing or write-off history, then scrutinise the logbook and get a pre‑purchase inspection from an independent mechanic.

Confirm the rego status and VIN with Service SA, complete the ownership transfer paperwork promptly, and keep copies of everything like a suspicious librarian.

On the test drive, listen for knocks, check all electrics, and make sure it tracks straight—if it pulls left harder than a seagull at the beach, walk away.