Being aware of the legal obligations of motor dealers and private sellers can help protect you as a buyer.
We have a range of resources to guide you including:
Contracts
The contract of sale is a legally binding document.
- Do not sign until you are sure the vehicle is right for you and you know you can afford it.
- Make sure there are no unfavourable clauses in the contract. - if you don't understand the contract then don't sign it
- Make sure it specifies the trade-in amount or delivery date if applicable.
- Add any specific requirements you may have around finance or delivery details.
- Don’t sign an incomplete contract.
- Always keep a copy of what you sign.
Cooling-off periods
- When you buy a brand new car (that has never been registered) there is no cooling-off period .
- A registered demonstration car is deemed to be a used vehicle, so a cooling off period applies.
Pre-delivery check for new vehicles
Do your own pre-delivery check on your vehicle. Ensure that it is exactly what you ordered.
If you specified a particular year of manufacture check:
- the year on the build plate (the year the car was actually built) and contract match
- the date on the compliance plate (indicating when the car met Australian Safety Standards) and the contract matches.
Also check the accessories or extras you ordered have been fitted.
It would also be wise to check that the:
- paintwork has no chips and the body panels are not dented
- interior has no cuts or scratches
Know what laws govern motor dealers and auctioneers
The newly developed
Motor Dealers and Chattel Auctioneers Act 2014 will come into effect late in 2014. Until that time, the
Property Agents and Motor Dealers Act 2000 is still in effect. Visit the Office of Fair Trading for more information.
The
Department of Transport and Main Roads provides information on regulations of safety certificates.
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