You can usually save some money when you buy a used car from a private seller, but it also has some risks you won’t face at a dealership. To make sure you’re making a wise purchase, you’ll need to ask the right questions, ensure the paperwork is in order, and take some common-sense precautions. Ernest North, co-founder of Naked, the fully digital insurance platform, offers some tips to get a good deal and protect your interests when buying a car privately.
1. Do your homework on pricing
Before you even phone the seller of a car that catches your eye, check the average price of similar models online (try sites like Cars.co.za or AutoTrader). Not only do you want to avoid cars that are priced too high, but you’ll also want to be careful of those that seem like a massive bargain.
2. Ask the right questions
Before you even meet to view the car, you’ll want to collect some basic info about the vehicle. If the seller is unwilling to answer questions on the phone, insisting on interacting only through text messages or email, that’s a red flag. Some questions to ask include:
• How old is the car?
• How many previous owners has the car had, and how long has the most recent owner had the car?
• What’s the current mileage, and the mileage when they bought it?
• Any accident history or major repairs?
• Is there outstanding finance?
• Do they have the service history logbook and roadworthy certificate?
• Why are they selling the car?
3. Meet in a public place
If you’re buying the car from a stranger, the next step is to meet to view the vehicle. Aim to meet during the daytime in a public area. Avoid remote or private locations; always get the full address in advance. Bring a friend or family member if you can. Let someone else know where you are, or even drop them a live location.
4. Inspect the car
Look for signs of wear or damage to the exterior, interior, and engine, paying special attention to:
• Tyres and brakes
• Lights and electrics
• Fluid levels and leaks
• Windscreen and wipers
Bonus tip: If you’re not confident in your own car knowledge, you can pay for a professional inspection via a provider like DEKRA if you want to buy the car.
5. Take it for a test drive
If you’re thinking about making a serious offer for the car, ask to take it for a test spin. Drive for at least 20 minutes and pay attention to things like:
• Braking (try a safe emergency stop)
• Handling and steering response
• Gear changes
• Any strange noises like rattling from the engine or grinding from the brakes (keep the windows down and radio off)
• Make sure to turn the car off and restart it to test the ignition
Bring your driver’s licence with you to show the seller. Also ask to see their insurance details since you could be held liable if you have an accident and the car isn’t insured or if the insurance only covers the drivers named in the policy.
6. Confirm all documentation is in order
Before any money changes hands, ask the seller for original copies of:
• Registration documents in their name (ask to see their ID book)
• Roadworthy certificate (valid and current)
• Proof of ownership
• Full service history
Check that the vehicle identification number (VIN) and engine number match the documents. You can also ask the police to confirm the car isn’t stolen.
7. Watch for signs of a potential scam
Here’s what should ring alarm bells:
• The price is far below market value
• The seller avoids calls or insists on email/chat
• They push for a deposit before you’ve seen the car
• They don’t have original paperwork
• They ask you to pay into a foreign account
If anything feels off, walk away.
8. Know how payment and ownership transfers work
Avoid paying cash. Bank transfers are safer because you’ll have an audit trail. If the car still has outstanding finance, the seller should settle it before you make full payment. Never hand over money without seeing the car and paperwork first.
9. Put it in writing
Create a contract with detailed information about both parties, the vehicle, and the sale terms to protect both parties. Include details such as your ID numbers, full vehicle details (make, model, VIN, mileage, registration number) and terms and conditions (such as ‘sold voetstoots’ or ‘seller agrees to fix faulty brake light before transfer of ownership’).
10. Register the car in your name
After the sale, transfer ownership at your local traffic department. You’ll need the roadworthy certificate, sales agreement, proof of residence, and a copy of the seller’s ID. This step is essential – until you register it, you don’t legally own the car. Remember to get insurance before you get behind the wheel. These days, it takes just a few moments to get a quote and buy car insurance online.
Buying a Quality Used/ Pre-Owned Car and Safety on the Road – Verify and Validate the Credentials of whoever wishes to sell you the Car!! https://t.co/RA39TrVk2G #ArriveAlive #BuyingCars #UsedCars@Dotransport @SAPoliceService pic.twitter.com/0nHGkYyOPJ
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) May 15, 2025
