The final steps in buying a safer car are:
- understanding your warranty (if there is one) and what it includes
- transferring ownership and registration into your name.
Having a warranty could save you money in case of mechanical failure or breakdown. The best warranties cover antilock brakes (ABS), heating and air-conditioning systems (HVAC), air-bags (SRS), and most of the accessory and computer systems.
All new cars have a manufacturer’s warranty. A full manufacturer's warranty covers all service necessary at no charge. It also allows for diagnosis, removal and reinstallation of all covered parts of a system.
Used car warranties vary from car to car. Low-mileage late-model used cars may have some of the original manufacturer's warranty remaining – check if this is transferable. If you buy a car privately there may be no warranty at all.
We need to know when a Victorian vehicle has been sold or given away. As the buyer, it is your responsibility to send an Application to Transfer Vehicle Registration form to VicRoads within 14 days of buying your new car. Find out more about buying or selling a vehicle and how to transfer registration.
If your car has interstate registration, please read: interstate car registration for information about registering your car in Victoria.