How to buy a used car safely in New Zealand

Buying privately can save you money, but you carry more of the risk. Work through these steps before you pay.

Before you view

• Check the plate on the NZ Police stolen vehicles page.
• Search the PPSR (Personal Property Securities Register) to see if money is owed on the car. If there's a security interest, the lender may be able to repossess the car even after you've bought it.
• Compare the odometer with the official readings shown on the listing. A reading lower than an earlier official one is a warning sign.

At the viewing

• Meet in daylight, somewhere public or at the seller's home.
• Check the VIN or chassis number on the car matches the paperwork.
• Look at the WOF sheet and service records. Ask who did the work.
• Get a pre-purchase inspection from an independent mechanic or inspection service.

Paying

• Never pay a deposit before you've seen the car in person.
• Check that money has actually arrived in the seller's bank account; a screenshot isn't proof.
• Be wary of anyone who says they're overseas, will ship the car to you, or wants payment in gift cards or crypto.
• Cruizy will never ask you to buy a vehicle report through a link in a message.

After you buy

Both buyer and seller must tell NZTA about the change of ownership. You can do it online for free.

This guide is general information, not legal advice.