Buying your first car is a big deal. It’s exciting, a little stressful, and if we’re being honest, full of weird advice from random corners of the internet. So instead of more dealership fluff or outdated “rules,” here are 10 real-world tips that actually make sense, especially if you want to avoid rookie mistakes and end up with a car you love (and can afford to keep).
1. Don’t just shop in your own backyard
A lot of people only look at cars being sold in their city or suburb. But if you’re serious about getting the best deal, it’s worth checking listings in other parts of the country. Prices can vary a lot between cities. For example, according to Compare the Market’s car insurance experts, a Toyota Hilux averages $61,332 in Darwin but goes for closer to $45K in Hobart. That’s a massive difference. Even if you have to fly interstate or take a ferry to pick up the car, you could still save thousands.
2. Always book a third-party inspection
Don’t skip this. No matter how perfect the car looks or how friendly the seller is, get it inspected by a mechanic who isn’t connected to the seller or dealership. Yes, it’ll cost you a bit upfront, but it could save you a fortune in hidden issues later on. This step alone can mean the difference between a solid ride and a money pit.
3. Don’t get hung up on kilometres
Low kms can be nice, but they’re not everything. How the car’s been driven and maintained is just as important. A well-serviced car with mostly highway kilometres might be in better shape than a city car with stop-start wear and tear. And unfortunately, odometers can be tampered with. Trust the service history and inspection over the number on the dash.
4. Get insurance quotes before you buy
Some cars, even older ones, can be surprisingly expensive to insure. Before you fall in love with a particular make or model, run a few quotes and see what you’d actually be paying. That flashy sports model might fit your budget… until you get hit with the premium.
5. Think about future repair costs
The sticker price isn’t the full story. Some cars are cheap to buy but expensive to own. Do a bit of research on parts, service costs, and common issues. For example, many European cars cost more to service than Japanese or Korean ones, even if they’re the same age. It adds up over time.
6. Ask for the logbook, then actually read it
A car’s service history tells you how well it’s been looked after. Look for regular entries and check if major services (like timing belt replacements) have been done. Big gaps, missing pages, or vague excuses like “I lost it in a move” are all worth being cautious about.
7. Ask about the accident and repair history
It’s completely fair to ask if the car has been in a crash or had major repairs, and to ask for proof. Some issues are no big deal, but repeated damage or poor-quality repairs can mean headaches down the line. If anything sounds off, your mechanic should be able to spot it during an inspection.
8. Be careful with private sales that seem too good
Private sales often have better prices, but they’re also riskier. If something seems too good to be true, like a super clean car with very low kms for a crazy-low price, it might be hiding something. Could be a write-off, an import with flood damage, or just a dodgy fix-up. Use common sense, ask questions, and don’t skip that inspection.
9. Shop around before taking dealer finance
Dealer finance is fast, but not always your best bet. Get quotes from banks, credit unions, or online lenders before you sign anything. The interest rate difference can be hundreds or even thousands over the life of the loan. According to Find My Car, car loan rates went up by 1 to 1.5% between January and October 2024, so a little research can make a big difference.
10. Test drive like you mean it
A quick spin around the block doesn’t cut it. Try highway speeds. Test the brakes. Play with every button. Listen for weird noises. Pay attention to how it feels to park, reverse, accelerate, and stop. Make sure it’s comfortable, that the infotainment system makes sense, and that you’re not fighting with visibility or blind spots. You’ll thank yourself later.
Buying your first car is about asking questions, doing your homework, and not being afraid to walk away if something doesn’t feel right. Take your time, get second opinions, and trust your gut. You’ll end up with a car that works for you, not just on day one, but for the long haul.
