Purchasing a used car is a little more complex than buying a new one. Here’s everything you need to do to ensure the process is a smooth one.

1. Transfer your insurance…

Remember to do this before you drive your new (well, used) car home, so you’re covered from the minute you get the keys. Prior to collection it’s best to confirm with your insurance provider that policy benefits will roll over after the transfer.

2. And the registration

It’s the buyer’s responsibility to transfer the registration from the seller to them. Check your state’s requirements and timeframes for this process, as it can vary – and ensure you’ve got the finance to cover any transfer fees and stamp duty.

3. Replace all the fluids

If you know that it’s been quite some time since the car you’ve purchased has had a service, or if you can’t confirm when the last service was, it’s a good idea to book the car in for a once-over once you’ve received it. During that time, technicians can replace the engine oil, transmission oil and brake and clutch fluids to that you can be sure that the car is 100 percent road ready.

4. Sell your old car

Trading your old car in, is easy, but you might get more bang for your buck if you sell it yourself. The biggest pain point when it comes to selling your car yourself is time – time to wait for curious buyers, time to show them the car and time to make a sale. Allow yourself plenty of time to get a sale out of the way – particularly if you are relying on the funds to help purchase your new vehicle.

5. Treat the car to a top-to-toe refresh

Just because you’ve bought a used car, there’s no reason you can’t resurrect that new-car smell – or shine. Restore the car to as-new condition with a Permagard Refresh Program. Our trained technicians will be able to restore the paintwork’s original lustre and sanitise and protect the interior of the car’s cabin to keep it looking and feeling new.