Buying a used car can be an exciting step toward mobility and independence, but it also comes with potential pitfalls that can cost you dearly if you’re not careful. Among all the mistakes one could make during this process, one stands out as the most critical: placing blind trust in the salesperson.
Why Trusting the Salesperson Can Cost You
Used car dealers in South Africa—like in many parts of the world—don’t always have the cleanest reputations when it comes to transparency. While some may genuinely not know the full history of a vehicle, others may intentionally withhold information or gloss over red flags to make a sale. Relying solely on what a dealer tells you about the car’s condition is a gamble you cannot afford to take.
Statements like “It’s in perfect condition” or “No issues whatsoever” should never be accepted at face value. A polished exterior and a smooth test drive can easily hide a history of mechanical failures, accident damage, or ongoing reliability issues.
What You Should Do Instead
Before committing to a used car purchase—whether it’s a budget-friendly hatchback in the Johannesburg CBD or a high-end vehicle in Melrose Arch—always consult an independent vehicle inspection expert. These professionals can verify:
- The car’s full service history
- Records of past accidents or insurance claims
- Accurate mileage
- Validity of paperwork and ownership
- Warranty coverage and any exclusions
Hiring a trusted inspector may come at a small upfront cost, but this can potentially save you hundreds of thousands of rands down the line.
For those well-versed in the automotive industry, some of these checks can be done independently. But for the average buyer, relying on a professional is the safest bet.
A Costly Example
Consumer journalist Wendy Knowler recently highlighted a case that underscores this advice. A woman spent R1.4 million on a two-year-old Land Rover Defender with only 20,000 km on the odometer. The car was purchased from a respected dealership, but from the moment it was delivered, it began showing serious mechanical issues—ranging from engine problems to persistent warning lights.
Despite returning the car to the dealer four times in six months for repairs, the problems persisted. When she finally demanded to reverse the transaction, the dealer refused and denied any prior knowledge of the car’s issues.
Later, when trying to trade the vehicle at another dealership in Polokwane, she discovered that the SUV had a well-documented history of faults and multiple warranty claims. Shockingly, her Defender had been sent in for repairs nine times before she bought it.
Ultimately, she had to accept a trade-in offer that saw her lose R289,000 on the vehicle, not including the emotional stress and time wasted trying to resolve the issue.
Don’t Rely on Promises
This story is a sobering reminder that appearances—and even so-called “reputable” dealerships—can be deceiving. Whether you’re shopping for a used car in a backstreet lot or a luxury showroom, the biggest mistake you can make is trusting the salesperson’s word without verification.
If you’re serious about protecting your investment, insist on a thorough, independent evaluation of the vehicle before you buy. In today’s market, where even “approved” cars can come with hidden issues, doing your due diligence isn’t just smart—it’s essential. As Knowler herself put it: “I’m sorry to say this, but you cannot afford to take a car salesperson’s word for anything.”
An extra step that can also go a long way is researching the dealership itself. Look up online reviews, check their consumer ratings, and ask around in local car forums or social media groups. Patterns of complaints or recurring issues shared by other buyers can help you avoid unreliable sellers before you even set foot on the lot.
Related article: Used Sports Cars vs. Brand-New Everyday Cars: Which Should You Choose?
