Are you planning to travel to Australia and considering buying a car for your journey? Understanding the process of buying and selling a car in Australia, especially in Western Australia, is crucial for a smooth experience. Here’s what you need to know, including some handy tips to help you along the way.
Choosing the Right Car
The type of car you should get depends on your needs. For off-road adventures, popular 4×4 models include the Toyota Prado, Hilux, Mitsubishi Pajero, and Triton. If you’re looking for a standard car, consider models from Toyota, Ford, Hyundai, Honda, and Mitsubishi. However, not all models and years are recommended, so be sure to do your research before making a purchase.
Buying a Car in Western Australia
When buying a car in Western Australia, there is no legal requirement to have it inspected beforehand. However, we strongly recommend getting a pre-purchase inspection. This can potentially save you thousands of dollars in the long run by identifying any issues that could become costly repairs later on. At Autoplus WA in Midvale, we offer comprehensive pre-purchase inspections. If you’re traveling around Western Australia, consider workshops from the AASDN Network or RAC WA, which offers mobile inspections.
Pre-Purchase Inspections
In other Australian states, cars require an annual inspection to ensure they are roadworthy. These inspections vary in thoroughness, so a pre-purchase inspection is still advisable. It checks additional items that might not be covered by the government’s roadworthy procedure.
Department of Transport Inspections
It’s important to understand the difference between a Department of Transport inspection (often referred to as a Pink Slip or Roadworthy) and a pre-purchase inspection. Government inspections have minimum requirements, such as brake tests, which can vary between states. For example, Western Australia requires a road test for brakes, while other states might use a machine. Additionally, a Department of Transport inspection typically does not include checking fluid levels or conditions and is mostly visual. Therefore, even if you’re getting a government inspection, we recommend a pre-purchase inspection for a more comprehensive check.
Selling a Car in Western Australia
If you end your travels in Perth, Western Australia, and plan to sell your car, you’ll need to register the vehicle in the state, which requires a Department of Transport inspection. Be aware that the standards for roadworthiness can differ between states. An item deemed acceptable in New South Wales, for example, might not pass in Western Australia. This can lead to unexpected repair costs before you can sell the car.
Final Thoughts
When buying a car, always opt for a pre-purchase inspection. Familiarize yourself with the rules for buying and selling cars in the states you’ll be traveling through to avoid unforeseen expenses. Remember that Department of Transport inspections vary between states and territories and might not cover everything checked in a pre-purchase inspection. If you have any questions about inspections in Western Australia or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us at Autoplus WA. Enjoy your journey in this beautiful and vast country of ours, and remember to keep left on the roads!
For more information or to schedule an inspection, visit our website or contact us directly. We’re here to ensure your vehicle is safe and ready for your Australian adventure.