Feature article

How to avoid being misled when buying a car privately

Buying a car privately is great for getting a bargain, but comes with less protection. Here’s how to avoid being misled.

While viewing a car

  • To be registered.
  • To display a consumer information notice (CIN).*
  • To comply with the Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA) or Fair Trading Act (FTA).

Before you buy

What rights do you have after the purchase?

What if the seller misled you about the car’s condition?

What if there’s money owing on the car?

What if the seller becomes unreachable after the purchase?

Remember the positives

Other articles you might like

Woman inspecting car interior through window
Feature article | 4 min read
What’s the best time of year to buy from a car dealer?

Buying a car is expensive, so you want the best deal possible. Let's look at the best time of year to buy from a dealer.

car parked looking out to sea
Feature article | 3 min read
Five reasons why people change car

There are many reasons why people enter the buyers’ market and change their car, but here are five key motivations.

woman looking stressed behind wheel of car
Feature article | 3 min read
Top 5 worst car buying mistakes

Buying a car can be a hazardous minefield. Here's the top five worst car buying mistakes...and how to avoid them.

Start a listing icon
Start a listing
Watchlist icon
Watchlist
Favourites icon
Favourites
Sign up icon
My Trade Me
© 2026 Trade Me Limited