If you choose to buy privately, ensure that you ask plenty of questions and obtain written proof of the vehicle's history (including servicing) to be sure that it is a genuine ‘private' sale. Be wary of vehicles being sold by a third party who may not be the owner. Also be wary of cars with modifications as there may be insurance and legal implications.
At the time of purchase, make sure that both you and the seller complete and sign the Application for Transfer of Registration and the Disposal Notice, which can be found on the reverse side of the current Certificate of Registration for the vehicle. As the purchaser, it is your responsibility to lodge the Application for Transfer with the Department of Transport, Energy and Infrastructure within 14 days from the date of purchase. Failure to do so may result in an additional fee. It is the seller's responsibility to lodge the Disposal Notice.
Personal Property Securities Register
When you're buying a car privately, it's important to determine if the vehicle has any outstanding payments owed to a finance company, or any other encumbrances that you should be aware of before buying. You can check the status of the vehicle by calling the Personal Property Securities Register on 1300 007 777, online at www.ppsr.gov.au. You must provide the vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) or chassis number in order to do this.
If you buy a vehicle without first checking the register, you run the risk of a bank or credit provider repossessing the vehicle or chasing you for any unpaid money.
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Information on copyright for the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs website is provided on behalf of South Australia Central http://www.sacentral.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=60
Disclaimer
Information on the disclaimer for the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs website is provided on behalf of South Australia Central http://www.sacentral.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=61
Privacy
The South Australian Office of Consumer and Business Affairs (OCBA) is committed to protecting your privacy and the confidentiality of your personal information, consistent with the South Australian Government's Information Privacy Principles. If you would like to view the full privacy statement please visit: http://www.ocba.sa.gov.au/privacy.html
Webmaster
If you wish to provide feedback on the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs website please contact the Webmaster via email mailto:webmaster@agd.sa.gov.au
Accessibility
Information on accessibility for the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs website can be viewed at: http://www.ocba.sa.gov.au/accessibility.html
