Car buying tips
Read the paperwork closely
Carefully comb over the results of the pre-purchase inspection and speak to the inspector about it. Work out exactly what a warranty covers. Double-check the change of ownership forms and receipt before finalising the transaction.
Ask the seller key questions
Why are you selling? How have you used the car? Has it been in any accidents? Have there been any major mechanical faults? How new are the tyres?
Pay fair value
Use a tool like Car Price to find out the market value of the car, to ensure you're not overpaying. Compare it to the price of similar cars in your area. Factor in the age, odometer reading, and any additions or recent work that has been done to the vehicle.
Stay within budget
Avoid being tempted by a dream car with an asking price outside your range, even if it's only a little above your budget. You should always prioritise your needs over your wants, and staying within budget is perhaps the biggest need of all.
Secure your dream car today
In need of a car loan? At Instant Finance we've spent over 50 years providing Kiwis with the funds they need to buy their perfect set of wheels.
Apply online today to secure a car loan that works for you.
FAQs
Is it expensive to own a car in New Zealand?
The purchase price of your car only ever tells part of the story. The ongoing costs - fuel, licensing and rego, Warrant of Fitness (WoF), maintenance, car insurance, cleaning and parking - generally add up to a few thousand dollars a year. Whether that's expensive will depend on your definition!
Is it worth buying a new car in NZ?
The higher upfront cost of a new car can certainly be worthwhile, as (often extended) warranties give you ultimate peace of mind. That said, you can get far better value in a used car. Ultimately the answer to this question is up to you.
How to finance a car in NZ?
There are a few different ways to finance a car in NZ, including purpose-built car loans.
Get all the details in our car financing guide, which covers everything from interest rates to credit scores to monthly payment plans.