Buying a Used Car in Melbourne: Checklist

Used Car Buying Checklist

A good used car can save you thousands. Use this checklist whether you buy from us or anyone else.

Before you go

• Set a budget that includes stamp duty, insurance and registration.
• Run a PPSR check to make sure there is no money owing and the car is not recorded as stolen or written off.
• Ask for the service history.

At the car

• Look for uneven panel gaps, overspray and mismatched paint.
• Check tyre wear and the spare.
• Start the engine from cold and listen for noises.
• Test every switch, the air-conditioning and the infotainment.

On the test drive

Drive on a mix of roads, including a freeway. Check the car tracks straight, brakes evenly and the transmission shifts smoothly.

Dealer or private sale

In Victoria, a licensed dealer must provide clear title and statutory warranty on eligible used cars, and the price shown as drive away covers the roadworthy, stamp duty and transfer. Private sales usually do not include these protections.

Our used cars

Alan Mance Motors has hundreds of used cars of all makes across Footscray and Melton. Stock numbers starting with 2 are in Footscray, and those starting with M or N are in Melton. Browse used cars.

Finance, trade-ins and fleet

Our finance team can arrange car loans, novated leases and business finance (see finance). We will value your trade-in, or buy your car outright through Sell My Car. Buying with an ABN or for a fleet? See our business and fleet page.

Visit or enquire

Browse new, demo and used stock online, see the latest offers, or use the form on this page and the right dealership will get back to you. You can also see all our dealerships.