Does Your Used Car Have a Warranty?

If you’re considering buying a used car, you might have several questions. One key consideration is whether to buy from a licensed dealer or a private seller. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks. The most important question to ask is, does the used car come with a warranty?

Statutory Warranty

In some cases, a statutory warranty is provided at no additional cost when purchasing a used car from a licensed:

  • Motor dealer
  • Chattel auctioneer

Buying from these sources can offer a statutory warranty, protecting you from financial loss if the vehicle has faults.

Requirements for a Statutory Warranty

Licensed motor car traders must provide a statutory warranty if the car meets these criteria:

  • Less than 10 years old
  • Has traveled less than 160,000 kilometers

The car’s age is determined by the build plate date, usually found on the firewall between the engine and passenger compartments.

Coverage of a Statutory Warranty

A statutory warranty covers most defects in parts that stop working correctly. However, it does not cover defects related to:

  • Items listed on a defect notice with repair cost estimates
  • Accidental damage after vehicle delivery
  • Damage due to misuse or negligence after delivery

Other exclusions include defects in:

  • Tyres
  • Batteries
  • Radios and audio systems
  • DVD and video display panels
  • GPS and navigation systems
  • Power outlets and cigarette lighters
  • Non-standard alarms and body hardware
  • Tools (except jacks and wheel braces)
  • Light globes and non-standard fog lights
  • Non-standard keyless entry systems and remote keypads

Duration of a Statutory Warranty

A statutory warranty lasts for three months or 5,000 kilometers after purchase, whichever comes first. During this period, the trader must repair any covered faults to ensure the car is in reasonable condition for its age.

Even after the statutory warranty expires, your rights under Australian Consumer Law may still offer protection, depending on factors like the car’s age and condition.

Transfer of Statutory Warranty

A statutory warranty is part of the contract with a licensed motor car trader. If you sell the car privately before the warranty period ends, it does not transfer to the new owner.

Making Claims and Repairs

To claim a repair or replacement for a part not listed above, notify the warrantor with a written notice. They have 5 days to respond and confirm coverage. If they don’t respond, they must accept responsibility for repairs.

For repairs, take the car to the warrantor or an authorized repair shop within 20km of their business. They have 14 days to complete the repairs. Each day your car is in the shop adds an extra day to your warranty term.

If your vehicle is over 200km from the warrantor’s business, they may choose a closer qualified repairer or pay for delivery to another repairer.

Hire the Best Pre-Purchase Car Inspector in Melbourne

To ensure your dream car is in good condition and not a scam, hire a professional inspector like Greasemonkey Inspectors for a thorough pre-purchase car inspection in Melbourne.

If you’re looking for a reliable pre-purchase car inspection in Melbourne, contact Greasemonkey Inspectors today!

Explore our Inspection Packages for more information.

AdBlue Chemical Shortage Might Render Diesel Vehicles Off The Road

In Australia, a shortage of AdBlue, a crucial fuel additive, threatens to render diesel vehicles inoperable, potentially causing significant disruptions. AdBlue is essential for modern diesel vehicles to reduce emissions, and the current shortage could impact the diesel trucking industry, posing a risk to the economy.

Understanding AdBlue

AdBlue is a fluid used in the catalytic converters of diesel vehicles’ exhaust systems to break down harmful nitrogen oxides. It’s injected into the exhaust gases and burned at high temperatures to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions. AdBlue is common in Euro Six-compliant vehicles manufactured after 2015 and has been adopted by both European and Japanese automakers.

Vehicles Using AdBlue

AdBlue is widely used in trucks and an increasing number of late-model diesel vehicles and SUVs from brands like Renault, Citroen, BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, Ford, Mazda, and Toyota. Mercedes-Benz refers to their AdBlue systems as “BluTec.”

How AdBlue Works

AdBlue is stored in a separate tank and is sprayed into the exhaust stream in controlled doses. It reacts with the nitrogen oxide in the exhaust gases, transforming it into nitrogen and water via the catalytic converter, thereby reducing emissions.

The AdBlue Shortage Crisis in Australia

The shortage of AdBlue affects both passenger cars and commercial vehicles, with the transport industry particularly hard-hit. Passenger cars use minimal amounts of AdBlue, but trucks and prime movers require significantly larger quantities. The shortage poses a threat to Australia’s supply chain, as many truck drivers rely on AdBlue for their vehicles.

The rising prices of AdBlue in Europe have led to drivers rushing to fill up before supplies run out. Although Australia has three manufacturers of AdBlue, the majority of the Asia-Pacific’s urea supply, a key component of AdBlue, comes from China, which has paused exports to control domestic fertilizer prices.

Supporting Local Manufacturers

Cam Dumesny, Chief Executive of the Western Roads Federation, emphasizes the need to support local AdBlue manufacturers by sourcing the base agent globally. Without strategic sourcing, rationing might become necessary, prioritizing certain areas of transport over others.

For more information on pre-purchase inspections, contact Greasemonkey Inspectors. We offer top-notch on-site vehicle inspection services in Melbourne and across Australia.

Secure Your Vehicle with Our Inspection Packages

If you’re looking to ensure your vehicle’s reliability, explore our Inspection Packages. At Greasemonkey Inspectors, we provide comprehensive pre-purchase inspections to give you peace of mind.

What to Look for When Buying a Second Hand Car in Australia?

Second hand cars in the Australian car market have seen high demand lately as more and more people switch to this form of budget and environment-friendly option. A guide that will enable you to make an informed choice in finding your used car.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Used Car

Mileage and Age – Mileage and age go hand-in-hand when assessing a used vehicle’s condition. A car with lower mileage might seem appealing, but don’t overlook its age.

Reliability and Service History – Watch out for red flags like missed services or repeated mechanical issues. This is where reviews of the car model will also help—research about “the best used cars to buy” to find reliable options and “used car prices” of the same model for a reference price.

Overall Condition – Inspect every aspect of the vehicle on your used car search:

➔     Interior Condition: Look for wear and tear on seats, controls, and carpeting.

➔     Exterior Condition: Examine for scratches, dents, or rust, and check if the paint matches across the panels.

➔     Under the Hood: Look out for any leaks, corroded parts, or unusual engine noises.

➔     Electrical and Mechanical Inspection: Examine all the electronics and mechanical aspects of the vehicle

For this, you can also hire an expert like Greasemonkey Inspectors and get a pre purchase inspection done. You can read our blog about pre-purchase car inspection costs to learn about the costs involved in the process.

The Importance of a Test Drive

Never skip the test drive! This is your chance to assess the car’s brakes, suspension, steering, and overall ride quality. Pay attention to how the car handles and whether there are any unusual sounds or delays in response.

Final Thoughts

Buying a second hand car in Australia doesn’t have to be stressful. By checking mileage, service history, and overall condition and insisting on a test drive while at places that buy used cars, you can make an informed decision. To ensure you’re getting the best value and avoid costly repairs down the line, book a pre-purchase inspection with Greasemonkey Inspectors.

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