\u201cBuying a car is often the second biggest financial commitment you\u2019ll make after buying or renting a home.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe wrong decision on a car purchase can be a very costly mistake,\u201d he said.<\/p>
\u201cTaking the time to do research and getting a professional opinion before signing any contracts or handing over payment is essential.<\/p>\n
\u201cA contract is there to protect both you as the buyer and the seller.\u201d<\/p>\n
He advised consumers to firstly ask what warranties or guarantees are in place.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf the seller is not prepared to be transparent regarding guarantees, walk away.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Consumer Protection Act is very clear regarding minimum guarantees and warranties on transactions,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Dewald Ranft, chairperson of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the RMI, said that if the deal hinges on additional work being done to the car, do not conclude the deal until the work is completed.<\/p>\n
\u201cAlso be very clear regarding timelines for completion of the work.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen you are ready to move forward with a deal, it is advisable to pay a deposit first.<\/p>\n
\u201cThen when satisfied that all related work needed and agreed upon is concluded, pay over the balance,\u201d he advised.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
ALSO READ:<\/span><\/p>\n Series: Understanding your basic consumer rights as a motorist: Part 3: Understanding warranties and liabilities \u2013 it is your right as a car owner<\/a><\/p>\n Series: Understanding your basic consumer rights as a motorist: Part 2: Receiving quality service and goods is your right<\/a><\/p>\n Series: Understanding your basic consumer rights as a motorist: Part 1: No quote, no work<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n It is important that all offers to purchase, agreements and undertakings are put in writing.<\/p>\n \u201cBefore signing the relevant documents ensure that you fully understand the content thereof and know what you are committing yourself to,\u201d added Gary McCraw, national director of the National Automobile Dealers\u2019 Association (NADA), a proud association of the RMI.<\/p>\n \u201cEnsure that you deal with a reputable motor vehicle dealer, preferably one that is a member of a recognised trade association such as the RMI or NADA, when purchasing a pre-owned car, so if there are any issues there is recourse.\u201d<\/p>\n Olivier added the following quick tips and important questions to ask before purchasing a vehicle:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u201cRemember that if it looks too good to be true, it probably is,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n He also reminded consumers that there are professionals available to assist you ahead of buying a car.<\/p>\n \u201cSometimes a phone call is all it takes to provide added peace of mind.<\/p>\n \u201cThe RMI and its members are available nationally and will gladly assist if you are seeking advice.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hav<\/strong>e a story?<\/strong><\/p>\n Contact the newsroom by emailing: Melissa Hart (Editor)\u00a0<\/span>germistoncitynews@caxton.co.za,<\/a> <\/strong>Leigh Hodgson (News Editor)\u00a0<\/span>leighh@caxton.co.za <\/a><\/strong>or Ashley Kiley (Journalist) ashleyk@caxton.co.za.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Also follow us on:<\/p>\n\n
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