buying cheap car Page 2

Looking to buy a cheap car without inheriting someone else’s drama? Start by setting a realistic budget that includes on-road costs—stamp duty, rego, CTP, insurance—and $150–$300 for a pre-purchase inspection.

Hunt common, unfussy models with cheap parts and solid reputations—think Toyota Corolla, Hyundai i30, Mazda 3—ideally with a thick logbook and no “modded for power” fairy tales.

Check the PPSR for $2, confirm the VIN matches the papers, and ask about timing belt/chain intervals, recalls, and any crash repairs; cold-start it, drive it at highway speed, and test every switch like you’re auditioning for airport security.

Walk away from sellers who dodge inspections or push cash-only urgency, and factor in near-term consumables—tyres, brakes, battery—because a $1,000 surprise makes a cheap car not so cheap; Tradingpost has plenty of honest workhorses if you’d like a head start.