is it better to buy a car privately or from a dealer

Thinking of buying privately or from a dealer? Classic fork in the road, mate.

• Private – Pros: usually lower prices and more room to haggle; Cons: no statutory warranty, you handle inspections, paperwork, and risk—do a PPSR check.
• Dealer – Pros: eligible used cars often come with statutory warranty and Australian Consumer Law protection, plus easier trade-ins/finance; Cons: higher prices and add-on extras.
• Private – Watch-outs: get a pre-purchase inspection, verify service history, and confirm rego/transfer requirements in your state.
• Dealer – Watch-outs: confirm “drive-away” pricing, fees, and warranty terms; cooling-off periods vary by state/territory.

In short, dealers bring formal protections and convenience while private sales demand diligence and can deliver sharper value. Choose based on your risk tolerance and patience for paperwork—no wrong answer, only the one that suits you.