Used Car Discourse

Buying a pre-owned vehicle is a great option when shopping on a budget. But there are some precautions to take into account – here are eight important tips to consider when buying a used car. Used-vehicle sales have been on a steady climb in South Africa over the past few years, according to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers South Africa (NAAMSA). As the prices of new cars continue to rise, it’s expected that more consumers will opt for used SUVs for sale to find the perfect vehicle for their personal needs. However, while used car prices can be friendlier on your pocket, some pre-owned vehicles might have mechanical gremlins and body damage issues that are undisclosed by the seller, cautions the Automobile Association of South Africa (AA). Luckily, when you buy a used SUV from Group 1 Cars all the checks have been done to ensure the used SUV you’re buying is in excellent condition. WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A USED CAR: If you’re looking at buying a used car, ...

Unlike a new van that is fresh from the factory and backed by an extensive warranty, used panel vans for sale will have typically travelled thousands of miles over several years. No matter what type of panel van you are looking to buy -  you can boost your chances of getting great value for money by carrying out ten basic checks. 1. Bodywork The most important thing to check on a van’s bodywork is rust. Rust is most obvious on wings, sills and below bumpers, but it can also be found under the wheel arches, around the door frame and at the corners of the windscreen. If you find rust, press on it gently. If you hear cracking sounds, there may be corrosion below.   2. Suspension Pushing down on each corner of the van should give you some indication of the state of its shock absorbers. If the van bounces once and then returns to its normal position, the shock absorbers should be fine. If you have any concerns about the suspension, a test drive will help you to confirm...

If you’re looking to buy used hatchbacks for sale , it can be challenging to find the right one. The fear of purchasing a car that may not be fully functional is one that may stop you from proceeding with your purchase or lack of sufficient funds may be a deterrent as well. You can plan out financing of the used car with the help of Group 1 Cars ’ second-hand car financing. Alternatively, the purchase can be useful, if chosen wisely and one stands to reap significant benefits in terms of costs that are significantly lower since new cars lose their value almost immediately after purchase – that is how depreciation works. Below is a list of things you can look for in a prospective second-hand car to ensure you make a good purchase. 1. Identify the Car You’re Looking to Purchase  The first step in purchasing the right second-hand car or a used car is to narrow down your car search to within one or two models of the car you want to buy. Don’t hesitate to be thorough with your ...

You would think there are many reasons as to why you still see an abundance of used Jeep Wrangler for sale , and you are “thinking right.” The reasons used Jeep Wranglers are still so popular go much deeper than an old engine vs. a new engine, they need to be looked at from a Wrangler fanatics perspective. Sure, the older Wranglers hold their value well, and with upgrades they might be worth the same as a 2016 one stock. But, the older Wrangler is still around by popular demand, and that’s because the Jeep-fanatics want it. The question of buying new vs. used is more complicated in the Jeep culture than all the other brands combined, and that’s because of how much older Wranglers are still loved. In order to shed some light on this dilemma, here’s the top 5 reasons to buy a used Jeep Wrangler instead of getting a new one; reasons that have been compiled from various consumer forums. More Upgrade Options When it comes to upgrades, Jeep is king. There’s a reason many Jeepers pioneered ...

1993-2011 Second-generation Ranger: A stylish Splash and Mazda clone Enjoy Part 2 of this ‘Where it's been’ blog on the Ford Ranger for sale . Ford released the second-generation Ranger in 1992 as a 1993 model with a freshened design and available Splash version. The boxy look was replaced by a rounder sheet metal for a sleeker appearance. The Splash featured even more visual punch with a flare side bed, chrome wheels, lower suspension and special decals affixed to the sides and tailgate. Power options in 1993 included the carryover 2.3-liter four-cylinder, 3.0-liter V6 with 145 horsepower and range-topping 4.0-liter V6 making 160 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque. A substantial update came in 1998 with Ford giving the Ranger a longer wheelbase, upgraded frame, revised suspension and slight visual changes. Minor styling updates were also performed later on for the 2004 and 2006 model years. Also in 1998, Ford offered an EV version of the Ranger based on a regular cab bod...

The Volkswagen Kombi has a storied history and remains highly popular as transport for people and goods (or as converted campers). Examples from the ‘50s, ‘60s and even the ‘70s are much sought after and prices are rising as they become rarer. As the years sped by, so the power outputs (and sizes) increased. The T5 detailed here has built a strong following among tour group operators and large families alike. WHICH MODEL? On the diesel side, you have a choice between the well-known four-cylinder 1,9 TDI with 77 kW and 250 N.m of torque or the five-cylinder 2,5 TDI with 96 kW and 340 N.m. In the more luxurious Caravelle model, the latter engine offers generous outputs – 128 kW and 400 N.m of torque. On the petrol side, there was only one choice – a 3,2-litre V6 with 173 kW/315 N.m and a Tiptronic gearbox. This model was available until 2007. Facelifted T5s saw a trio of 2,0-litre TDIs introduced with 75 kW and 250 N.m, 103 kW and 340 N.m or 132 kW and 400 N.m (thanks to a pair o...

Spacious and brilliant to drive, the Fiesta is a great small car choice For whatever reason, many motorists will never own a Ford. When it comes to the Fiesta, they’re really losing out. Almost by magic, this supermini somehow manages to combine sweet handling with a wonderful ride. It will deal as easily with broken urban roads as it does with long motorway hauls, and it’s also very practical. It may not have quite as much passenger space as a Skoda Fabia or a Vauxhall Corsa, but the Fiesta counters that with a fine range of engines and a massive selection of used examples to choose from. You might not be able to run to a brand new Fiesta, but most of the current model’s talents are on offer in the used Fiesta . Which is the best model to go for? Best versions Among pre-2013 Fiestas, we’d go for the 81bhp petrol 1.25. In the diesel, the 1.6 is nicely responsive, but the 1.4 is more affordable and not at all deficient in its real-world driving manners. If your budget will stretch to ...

When looking at used cars for sale Gauteng or Cape Town alike, you’ll often see listings for CPO, or certified pre-owned vehicles. While that looks good in ads, its meaning can vary greatly. Generally speaking, CPO certification means that a vehicle has been through some sort of pre-sale inspection, typically involving more than 100 items from the engine and transmission to tires, battery, cosmetic appearance and more. In theory, issues with these are addressed. If they cannot be, the vehicle doesn’t make the cut. Depending on the manufacturer and/or the dealer, certification also includes limitations on the vehicle’s age, how many miles are on it and whether it has been in an accident, flood or otherwise has an undesirable history. Other benefits of buying a CPO vehicle from Group 1 Cars can include an extended warranty, roadside service, scheduled dealer maintenance and use of a loaner while the vehicle is in the shop. Chevrolet , for example, includes all the above and adds an ad...

Other than your home, your car might be the most expensive purchase that you ever make. I love nice cars, but I also try to manage my finances responsibly. As a result, I have reluctantly come to the conclusion that a new car is an unnecessary expense. Sure, you can find overpriced used cars for sale, Western Cape to Gauteng, and bargain buys on brand-new vehicles, but it’s not just the sticker price that makes a new car a waste. The associated fees, subsequent costs, and losses in value (i.e. depreciation) add up to thousands of dollars over the first few years of new car ownership. This is especially bad news if you end up upside down on your car loan. On the other hand, a “slightly-used” car – one that’s only around two years old and has under 30,000 miles on it – can help you keep cash in your pocket without sacrificing quality. Below are 6 benefits of buying a used car (in like-new condition) over a brand new one. 1. Used Cars: Lower Price Tag, Less Depreciation Remember the ol...

In Summary In the quest for a pick-up, usually two models will come to mind; Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara. This drove us to make a comparison between the two. We believe that despite both looking handy, big and functional, getting into the details will help you to make an informed purchase decision Experts say when it comes to pickup trucks, Toyota has history on its side. It has been making its Hilux pickup for more than 50 years. And over that time, it has gained something of a reputation for being one of the most capable all-terrain vehicles out there. But there is another kid on the block, the Navara from Nissan. This pickup has been around in one form or another for more than 80 years. And in that time, Nissan has developed tremendous expertise in making a car that is durable and practical. So which is better? Interior Jonathan Masiga, a mechanic, says both cars offer a very spacious and neat layout. They also made sure that the plastics used within do not appear chea...