A great used car should fit your everyday life and your budget. Before you commit, give yourself time to check the vehicle, the paperwork and the finance.
1. Start with the cost of owning it
Your budget needs room for more than the purchase price and loan repayment. Include registration, insurance, fuel, servicing and other running costs.
Make a shortlist with two columns: what you need and what would be nice to have. That extra row of seats or larger boot may matter more to your week than an optional upgrade.
2. Check the car’s identity and history
Use the vehicle’s VIN or chassis number for an official Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) search. It can show registered security interests and, where available, stolen or written-off information. That additional vehicle data may be incomplete or out of date.
The PPSR recommends searching on the day you buy, or the day before. Keep your search certificate. A search is one part of your checks; it does not establish the car’s mechanical condition.
3. Arrange an independent inspection
Ask a qualified vehicle inspector to assess the car and review its service history. The PPSR also recommends checking the vehicle identifier and the consistency of recorded odometer readings. Compare the registration details with the car and the search certificate. See the PPSR’s vehicle-check guidance.
Keep a written list of questions as you inspect the car. Ask for explanations and documents rather than relying on a verbal reassurance.
4. Get clear on the finance before committing
Ask your broker to explain what information the lender needs for you and the particular vehicle. Confirm which steps remain outstanding before treating a quote or conditional approval as final approval.
Bring the vehicle listing, purchase price and your questions to the conversation. Ask for the loan terms and costs in writing so you can review them alongside the car’s condition and purchase paperwork.
Your next step
Keep the listing, inspection report, search certificate and finance documents together. If something does not match, pause and get it explained before proceeding.
Found a car you like? Talk to Aussie Loans about your finance options or call 1300 256 267.
General information, current at 6 October 2026. Finance is subject to lender assessment and approval. Rates, fees, terms and eligibility vary.
