: Prioritize vehicles with high ANCAP safety ratings .
Never skip mechanical and background checks when buying privately or from auctions. Ten tips for buying a car - RACQ car buying tips australia
Securing finance before visiting a dealership can give you a stronger bargaining position. : Prioritize vehicles with high ANCAP safety ratings
: Account for registration (rego), stamp duty, Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance, and ongoing fuel/servicing. Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance
: In early 2026, competitive car loan rates generally sit below 8%.
: Many lenders, such as RACV , offer lower rates (around 5.09%) specifically for electric and hybrid vehicles.
Before looking at cars, determine your total budget, including "on-road" costs that go beyond the sticker price.