Help & Advice
Buying a Car in South Africa
Buying a car in South Africa is a significant milestone, whether it’s your first car or an upgrade. Start by understanding your budget and total cost of ownership. This includes insurance, fuel, services, and road taxes. Always ask for the full service history and verify the VIN number on the license disc against the one on the vehicle. If the seller is private, make sure the ownership papers are available and legit.
Do not rush. South Africa’s used car market is wide and competitive. Take your time to compare different listings, and test drive any car you are serious about. Use trusted platforms like Ridemarket to minimize your risk of encountering scams. Ensure the car has a valid roadworthy certificate, and ask about accident history if the car is pre-owned. Be sure to also factor in transfer costs and vehicle registration.
Servicing Inside or Outside the Brand
Servicing a car at a brand dealership ensures that all parts used are original, and mechanics are trained on your specific car model. This is great during your warranty period, as failing to stick to dealership servicing could void your warranty. However, after the warranty ends, many South Africans choose reputable independent workshops that offer competitive pricing and flexible service options.
If you service outside the dealership, make sure the workshop is accredited and offers a service history booklet or digital record. For common brands like Toyota, VW, and Ford, finding reliable non-dealer service centers is easy. Whether inside or outside the brand, regular servicing is non-negotiable to extend the life of your car and ensure your safety on the road.
Common Scams to Avoid
Unfortunately, online car sales in South Africa are sometimes targeted by scammers. Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. Never pay for a vehicle or deposit until you’ve seen the car in person and verified the seller’s identity. Avoid sellers who refuse phone calls and communicate only via messaging apps. Also beware of cloned car scams, where the VIN number is changed on a stolen car to make it appear legitimate.
Ridemarket manually verifies listings to reduce scam risk, but you should still be vigilant. If someone rushes you to pay a deposit or claims they are overseas, walk away. Insist on face-to-face meetings in safe public areas, and consider using licensed dealerships for added peace of mind.
Buying with Cash
Paying cash for a car might seem like the easiest way to buy, but it requires careful handling. Always demand a full receipt and a copy of the seller’s ID. Ensure that the ownership document (NaTIS) is in the seller’s name and not someone else’s. If the car is being sold by a dealer, make sure they are registered with the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa.
If you are paying a large amount in cash, avoid carrying money physically. Use EFT or bank transfer, and make sure the car changes hands only once funds have cleared. Buying in cash can save on interest, but it also removes the financial protection that some banks offer. Always verify the legitimacy of the transaction before handing over your hard-earned money.
Your Rights and Warranties
As a buyer in South Africa, you are protected by the Consumer Protection Act. This means any car sold by a dealer must be of good quality, free from defects, and suitable for the purpose sold. If issues arise shortly after purchase, the dealer may be obligated to repair or replace the vehicle or refund your money. However, these rights do not automatically apply to private sales.
Warranties vary by dealership. Make sure to read the fine print and ask questions. A used car may come with a limited warranty, while a new car includes a full manufacturer’s warranty. Extended warranties are available, but not always necessary. Knowing your rights helps you avoid unfair practices and gives you peace of mind.
Tolls and Levies in South Africa
Toll roads are found across major routes like the N1, N3, and N4. If you travel frequently between provinces, especially to Gauteng, you’ll likely pass through toll gates. Payments can be made using cash or credit cards, but many users prefer electronic tag systems like e-toll for convenience. Although controversial, e-tolls still apply to specific areas, and failure to pay could lead to fines or penalties.
Vehicle license fees, road levies, and carbon taxes are other common costs tied to car ownership. These are due annually and must be paid to renew your car’s registration. Staying on top of these levies avoids fines and ensures your car remains roadworthy.
Tickets and Traffic Infringements
Getting a traffic fine in South Africa is not unusual, especially with speed cameras and metro police actively enforcing road rules. Tickets can be mailed or delivered to your address. You can check your outstanding fines through AARTO or your local municipality website. Unpaid fines may eventually lead to a block on your license renewal.
If you believe a fine was issued in error, you have the right to dispute it. Always keep your license up to date, and remember that not paying fines can lead to legal consequences. Defensive driving, awareness of speed limits, and adhering to traffic signs are the best ways to avoid infractions altogether.
Stopping at Night
Stopping at night can be risky, especially in isolated areas. If you must stop due to car trouble, try to pull over in a well-lit, populated place like a petrol station. Turn on your hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers. Avoid pulling over on the shoulder of highways unless absolutely necessary.
If someone signals you to stop, but you feel unsafe, you are allowed to drive to the nearest police station or public place before pulling over. Always keep your phone charged and location services on, so you can call for help or share your location. For added peace of mind, consider joining a roadside assistance programme.