NSW fair trading minister Anthony Roberts has launched a free app, My Next Car, which helps consumers looking to buy a car.
Roberts says buying a car is a significant purchase and Fair Trading’s new app will help consumers make an informed decision.
“When buying a car, everyone worries they’ve picked a lemon but this new Fair Trading app helps you do your research and alerts you to any potential issues with the vehicle,” he says.
“This app empowers consumers with important information to help them make an informed purchase,” says Roberts.
The app allows users to take a photo of cars they like, record its details, use an inspection check list, compare cars side-by-side, order a debt check on the vehicle and calculate loan repayments.
“If you are thinking of buying a second-hand car, the app can link directly to a national database where, for a small fee, you can check if there is any money owing on the vehicle,” says Roberts.
“The last thing anyone wants when they buy a car is for a loan company to turn up and repossess it, because the previous owner failed to pay off their loan.”
Roberts says My Next Car joins ShopSmart and Scam Buster as Fair Trading’s third free app.
“This is another example of the O’Farrell Government and Fair Trading connecting with the community and providing consumers with another great resource.”
The minister launched the free app to a group of senior high school students at Granville Boys High School during a Revved Up session, a workshop run by Fair Trading which teaches high school students their rights and responsibilities when buying a car.
“During Fair Trading’s Revved Up information sessions, students learn about car finance, insurance, warranties, registration, running costs and they receive a useful pre-purchase checklist.
“Students also receive practical experience by watching a Fair Trading expert inspect a vehicle.”
Roberts says the free mobile app reinforces the information covered in the Revved Up workshop and is a great interactive tool for car buyers.
“Fair Trading aims to reach as many consumers as it can through a variety of methods to ensure they have the information and advice they need to become well-informed car buyers.”
The app will be available for android users later this month and for consumers who do not own a smartphone, Fair Trading has advice for car buyers on the Fair Trading website.
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