4. Research Cars and Identify Your Needs
Once you have a budget and a sense of new vs used, it's time to research specific makes and models. South Africa has a wide variety of brands (Toyota, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Ford, etc. are popular), so consider the following when narrowing down your choices:
Your Lifestyle and Usage
Think about what you'll use the car for day-to-day. Do you mainly drive in the city, commuting and running errands? If so, a small, fuel-efficient car that's easy to park might be ideal. South African cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town have heavy traffic, so a compact car can save you fuel and stress. On the other hand, if you have a large family or frequently travel long distances, you might need a spacious sedan or an SUV. If you're an outdoor enthusiast heading to off-road trails or rural areas, consider a vehicle with higher ground clearance or even 4x4 capabilities. There's no point buying a tiny hatchback if you need to haul sports gear every weekend, just as an enormous 4x4 makes little sense for someone who mostly parallel parks in tight city spots.
Safety Features
For any car – especially important for first-time buyers – safety is key. Ensure the models you consider have basic safety features like ABS (anti-lock braking system) and airbags (at least dual front airbags). Many newer cars have additional features like stability control, lane assist, etc., but at minimum, don't compromise on the basics. If looking at used cars, check how that model performed in crash tests. Programmes like Global NCAP's #SaferCarsForAfrica have tested many cars sold in Africa for safety – it's worth looking up the results for the models on your list.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel is a significant recurring expense. Petrol prices in South Africa can fluctuate but generally remain high relative to incomes. A car with good fuel economy will save you a lot in the long run. Compare the claimed litres/100km or ask current owners about real-world consumption. If you do a lot of mileage or have a long commute, this becomes even more crucial.
Reliability and Resale Value
Some cars are known to run forever with minimal issues, while others develop faults if not meticulously maintained. Research reliability reviews for the models you like – brands like Toyota and Hyundai, for example, often have good reputations in SA for reliability and affordable parts. Also consider resale value: if this is your starter car, you might resell it in a few years. Models that are popular (like Toyota Hilux bakkies, or VW Polos) tend to hold value better and attract buyers quickly in the used market. On the flip side, very unusual or discontinued models might be hard to resell and find parts for.
Make a shortlist of a few models that fit your needs and budget. Then you can proceed to finding specific cars for sale.
5. Finding the Right Car: Dealerships vs. Private Sellers
With your target model(s) in mind, where do you actually find your car? In South Africa, you have two main channels: buying from a dealership or buying from a private seller (directly from the owner). Each has its pros and cons:
Dealerships
If you're a beginner, reputable dealerships offer more protection. Franchise dealerships (the official new car dealers for brands, many of which also sell used cars of various makes) will often have certified pre-owned vehicles that have been inspected and come with a limited warranty. You might pay a bit more at a dealer than privately, but you get peace of mind and legal recourse if something goes wrong. Dealers also handle much of the paperwork for you (registration, roadworthy, etc.), which can be a relief. Another advantage is that you can trade-in your old car (if you have one) to offset the price. For new cars, dealerships are the only option anyway, and they might throw in extras like floor mats or a free service. Always research the reputation of the dealership – most are honest, but there are occasional bad apples. Look up customer reviews or ask friends for recommendations.
Private Sellers
Buying a used car through private sale (e.g., via online classifieds or word-of-mouth) can sometimes get you a better price because there's no dealership overhead or profit margin. Websites like Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace, AutoTrader, Cars.co.za, or OLX have thousands of private listings. However, be very careful with private sales. There is little to no warranty – it's usually voetstoots (sold "as is"). You will need to do more legwork: verify the car's condition and history thoroughly, and handle the registration transfer yourself. Unfortunately, scams exist – stolen cars with forged papers have been sold to unwitting buyers, or sellers might conceal accident damage. If you go this route, always meet in a safe public place, never carry large sums of cash on you (use secure payment methods or do the transaction at a bank), and consider having someone with you for safety when meeting the seller.
Pro Tip
Whether dealer or private, always get the car's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and run a background check. You can use services like TransUnion's Vehicle Check or www.vehiclecheck.co.za to see if the car is reported stolen, has outstanding finance, or has been in a major accident. This small step can save you from huge problems later.
6. Inspecting and Test-Driving the Vehicle
Never buy a car (new or used) without seeing it in person and taking it for a test drive. For new cars, the test drive is more about seeing if you're comfortable with the car's driving feel, size, and features. For used cars, the test drive and inspection are absolutely critical to avoid costly mistakes. Here's how to go about it:
External Inspection
Walk around the car in good lighting. Check the body for any signs of repainting, mismatched panels, dents, or rust. Uneven gaps between panels or slightly off paint shades could indicate previous accident damage. Make sure all doors, the boot, and the bonnet open and close properly. Look at the tyre tread depth – are they fairly worn out (which means an immediate expense to replace) or in good shape? Also, verify that the chassis number/VIN engraved on the body matches the one on the registration papers (the NaTIS certificate). Any discrepancy here is a red flag – it could indicate a stolen car or a clerical error; either way, it must be resolved before purchase.
Interior and Features
Sit in the driver's seat and fiddle with everything! Ensure the electronics work: lights, indicators, wipers, air-conditioning, radio, electric windows, central locking – test each one. Check the instrument cluster for any warning lights that stay on. Adjust the seats and steering to see if all levers function. If the car has features like reverse camera or onboard computer, try them out as well. A first-time buyer might not be familiar with how everything should feel, but if something is clearly non-functional, that's a negotiating point or a reason to walk away.
Engine and Mechanical Check
It's best to have an experienced person or, better yet, a professional mechanic inspect the car. Independent inspection services are available in South Africa – for example, Dekra or the Automobile Association (AA) Technical Inspection can do comprehensive used car checks. They will assess the engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, etc., and give you a report on any hidden issues (like oil leaks, worn brake pads, previous structural repairs, etc.). This might cost a bit (a few hundred rand), but it is highly recommended for any used car purchase – consider it an insurance against buying a dud. If a seller (dealer or private) hesitates or refuses to allow an independent inspection, that's a major warning sign.
Test Drive
Don't just take the car around the parking lot – go for at least a 15-20 minute drive on various roads if possible. Listen for any unusual noises – clunks, squeaks, or rattles – and feel how the car behaves. Does it pull to one side (which could indicate alignment issues)? Are the brakes strong and linear, or spongy? If it's a manual, how does the clutch feel (it shouldn't slip or shudder). If automatic, are gear changes smooth? Try going over a bump to test the suspension. All these observations give clues to the car's condition. During the drive, also watch the temperature gauge (overheating engines are a common problem in poorly maintained cars).
Service History and Documents
Ask to see the car's service book or records. Ideally, the car should have a full service history with authorized dealers or reputable workshops – this shows it's been maintained regularly. Check the dates and mileage of each service to see if they were consistent. An absence of service history on a relatively new car is concerning. If the car had any major repairs (like engine or gearbox overhaul), ask for invoices or details. Accident history is another big one – while minor fender-benders are okay if properly fixed, you do not want a car that was "written-off" (also known as Code 3 vehicles in SA, which are rebuilds) or suffered structural damage.
Taking these steps will help ensure you're not buying someone else's problems. As a beginner, don't hesitate to bring a friend or family member who knows cars to help you inspect – a second pair of eyes (and ears) can be invaluable.
In Part 3, we'll cover insurance considerations, the paperwork and regulations for closing the deal, and final tips for new car owners in South Africa.