Media Release
Tasmanian Automobile Chamber of Commerce
TACC House 200 New Town Rd, NEW TOWN 7008
The number of unsuspecting motorists to have purchased a vehicle declared a repairable write-off, in Tasmania, is rising. TACC, the peak automotive industry body in Tasmania, is urging potential car buyers to ask more questions about a car’s history before agreeing to a sale.
Every year, in Tasmania, approximately 900 motorists buy a used car without realising the vehicle has previously been declared a repaired write-off. A repairable write-off is a vehicle that has been accident damaged or flooded and the insurance company pays out the owner, before selling the vehicle, usually at auction, to a repairer. Once repaired and inspected, the vehicle can be sold to the public, usually, as a private sale. TACC is warning buyers to be aware that the private-sale vehicle they are considering could once have been a repairable write off.
TACC is particularly concerned about the number of repairable write-offs finding their way to Tasmania following mainland floods. These vehicles have been underwater and while they pass initial inspection, over time wiring and terminals corrode and computers fail leaving the unsuspecting owners with faulty vehicles and expensive repairs.
“We have a vehicle in our workshop at the moment which has come from Queensland and been a flood damaged repairable write-off. The problems with this car require a thorough investigation and so far we have found water damage in the wiring and relays and we are still working on it. I feel very sorry for the owner because these types of jobs are very time consuming and costly.” Chairman of the Australian Automotive Dealers Association (Tasmania), Adam Gowans, said.
TACC is urging potential car buyers to visit their local car dealer instead of taking the risk of buying privately from the kerb-side and to be wary of on-line deals that seem too good to be true. New car dealers in Tasmania operate under a Code of Practice for Motor Vehicle Traders and provide consumer protections.
“Buyers should ask the person selling the vehicle plenty of questions about the car’s history. If the answers are not satisfactory, then just walk away,” TACC General Manager, Malcolm Little, said.
“Next year new motor dealer licensing will be introduced in Tasmania, bring us in line with other States. Consumers can look forward to more disclosure, increased warranty coverage and more rights. Licensing will also mean anyone selling 6 or more cars will be deemed to be a car dealer and will have to provide consumers the same consumer protections as a licensed dealer.” Mr Little said.
17 November 2011