ALLBIDS Blog

First car – our buyer’s guide

Monday, 18 January 2016 | Muhammad Awais

Buying your first car can be a daunting task, whether you’re still in school, about to move away for university; or a parent buying for your teenager.

For most budgets, buying a brand spanking new car isn’t an option. Second hand cars are the solution. They can be a lot cheaper, and with a bit of research you can find the right car for your needs.

To help with your research, ALLBIDS has compiled a list of things to look out for.

1. Is the car automatic or manual?

This is the first thing you should check, along with checking whether your license enables you to drive a manual car.

Manuals are generally cheaper and more fuel efficient than automatics, although automatics are easier to drive, especially in hilly areas.

2. How much are you looking to spend?

As stated above, price is an important factor when purchasing your first car. Great deals can be found in the car section of the ALLBIDS website, where cars generally sell for under $5000.

You should first decide how much you’re willing to spend, taking into account any additional costs and whether or not you will need to apply for a loan. Additional costs may include registration, insurance, stamp duty and vehicle inspection.

3. How will you use the car?

The type of car you’re looking to buy will be influenced by how you intend to use it. Driving to and from school/university? Long or short distances? Number of passengers? Will you be in the city or in the country? All of these factors will influence the type of car needed and how you will make your decision.

4. Quality and safety

It’s important to find the right balance between quality and price for the car you’re buying. Some older cars may have more wear and tear than newer models, especially when it comes to the engine. Look for a car that has lower kilometers, a good service history and little to no aesthetic damage, as spare parts for some cars may be hard to find. Also check the safety rating of the car to make sure you’re getting the safest car possible.

ALLBIDS CARS invites you to come and check out the cars yourself by appointment. The cars we sell often come from dealerships with no warranty, which can be bought through ALLBIDS from a third party provider.