After the untimely and unexpected news from our local mechanic that the engine in one of our cars was gone, we were faced with a repair bill that was more than the car was worth.
We weren't exactly in the position financially to buy ANY car really, but had a budget of around $5000. With lots of searching we realised there were cars in that range, but many were older, or had lots of high kms. Still, amongst those there were some decent potential cars.
We were looking at medium sized cars, and after speaking to our mechanic, had an idea what we should focus our search on (roughly).
I realise $5000 isn't a big budget, but that's all roughly we could afford.
With more and more research we came across the information from the MTA (and NRMA) regarding the sale of second hand vehicles and user warranties. Anything over 160,000kms or 10 years old (so 2009) was not covered by a statutory 3 month warranty, and instead only under Australian Consumer Laws.
That narrowed the field somewhat, and again taking into account the Takata Airbag recall narrowing things further.
I'm not a mechanic but a car enthusiast, so know a little bit about various car related things.
Heading into the yard first thing we noticed was how well kept the cars were. None of those gaudy price stickers emblazoned across windscreens. None of those tacky "Cash for Cars", or "Cheap Loans" signs that tend to accompany the stereotype of the used car yard (along with the sleazy, slicked back haired, ever hovering and harassing car salesmen.
None of that at all at Motor Gallery. It's a family owned business along with Auto Outlet Direct, and the family are proud to tell you that.
Jesse was friendly, approachable, and laid back. Was happy to tell us all about where they obtain car stocks from, and there was absolutely no pressure at all. We asked for a test drive and he was happy with us taking the car with no license imprint at all.
Car drove really nicely and ticked all the checkboxes we had via a car inspection app. After 30 minutes away with the car we were convinced.
Arrived back at the yard and struck up a conversation with Clay about some stunning classics they had in the yard. Really laid back and friendly.
With clear PPSR and NSW RMS checks, we went into the office and again no pressure from Jesse asking how we went. We told him we'd go ahead with the car, signed all the paperwork and was on our way with our new car.
The whole stereotype of the "sus used car calesman" is smashed with these guys. They are honest, upfront, and respectful, and above all thing car enthusiasts.
A few things Jesse wasn't sure about and he was open and honest in saying that. He explained the warranty to us (some reviews I noticed complained about this), so that shows they are learning from any issues of the past.
One thing people need to do, is RESEARCH a purchase before buying. Don't impulse it. Understand your consumer rights and warranty periods, and research the car you are after heavily. Some reviews here the issues experienced are well documented common problems with cars of that age/km. In addition to this, before or immediately after purchase have your regular mechanic look over the car and get a report done. if you local mechanic gives it a pass, you are laughing.
Personally, I would have no hesitation recommending them to anyone after an affordably priced second hand car, or something really special (and they have some special cars in the yard).
To all the team at Motor Gallery / Auto Outlet Direct, well done and we'll be back in the future when it's time for another car.
Thanks again! read more