Buying a used car:Joy or tears?

Buying a car can be a joyous occasion if you choose the right dealer, but the opposite is equally true.

Searching the market for a bargain can end in tears, financial loss, or costly courtroom battles.

Top Revs spoke to established pre-owned dealers to understand the difference between buying from a credible source and a ‘fly-by-night’ operator.

The primary factor highlighted by experts is reliability.

Knowing a dealer will still be in business the morning after a sale brings peace of mind.

While a used car’s previous owner remains a mystery to the new buyer, a reputable dealer assumes the risk by ensuring the vehicle passes a rigorous 72-point inspection plan.

In many instances, vehicles are sent to brand-specific workshops to identify technical glitches.

Imelda Rudath of Im-Ray Auto says while women buyers are often perceived as easy targets, many are now standing their ground.

She warns that unscrupulous sellers sometimes tamper with odometers to reduce mileage, noting that an older car with suspiciously low mileage is a major red flag.

When a vehicle is traded in at Im-Ray Auto, Rudath says they deliberately leave minor scratches and dents untouched initially.

“We do not want to give the impression that the vehicle was in a major accident.

Clients value seeing the minor touch-ups the car undergoes only after a down payment is made,” she says.

Regarding ‘grey’ imports, Rudath offers technical advice for the Namibian climate.

On some imports, gearbox cross-members or mounting brackets are made of plastic or composites.

For the southern African region, these often require replacement with steel or carbon parts for durability.

Similarly, gearbox sumps (oil pans) on imports are often plastic.

Local workshops recommend swapping these for steel versions, as Namibia’s heat and rough roads can crack plastic.

Furthermore, the viscosity of engine and gearbox oil in imports often fails to meet regional standards for long-distance driving in high temperatures.

Even tyres may need replacing, as those fitted to imports are often designed for colder climates and shorter routes.

Stefan Mans of Auto Consultant shares these sentiments, emphasising legal compliance.

He ensures a ‘clean slate’ for every vehicle, confirming bank settlements are paid, police clearances are obtained, and there are no outstanding Namibian Traffic Information System costs or fines.

Mans says the slightly higher prices at established dealerships are justified by the comprehensive 72-point check covering mechanicals, underbody, shocks, and suspension.

He raises a red flag regarding ‘voetstoots’ or ‘as is’ sales. In layman’s terms, this means there is no guarantee or backup once the vehicle leaves the premises.

An easy way to spot a serious dealer is the presentation of the showroom and the condition of the vehicles on the floor.

Ultimately, credible dealers want their clients to return as happy customers, not as victims of unresolved issues.

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