Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
able for all costs involved. Also, most companies' insurance won't cover the cost of dam-
age to glass (including the windscreen) or tyres. Similarly, because of the risk of hitting an
animal, most companies void your insurance if you travel outside city limits between dusk
and dawn. Always read the small print.
Purchase
Buying your own vehicle to travel around in gives you the freedom to go where and when
the mood takes you, and may work out cheaper than renting in the long run. Some deal-
ers will sell you a car with an undertaking to buy it back at an agreed price, but don't ac-
cept verbal guarantees − get it in writing. It's your responsibility to ensure the car isn't
stolen and that there's no money owing on it: check the car's details with the
Personal
Property Securities Register
(
1300 007 777;
www.ppsr.gov.au
)
.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
It's prudent to have a car checked by an independent expert − automobile associations (
Click here
) offer vehicle checks, and road transport authorities (
Click here
) have lists of
licensed garages − but if you're flying solo, things to check include the following:
»
tyre tread
»
number of kilometres
»
rust damage
»
accident damage
»
oil should be translucent and honey-coloured
»
coolant should be clean and not rusty in colour
»
engine condition; check for fumes from engine, smoke from exhaust while engine is run-
ning and engines that rattle or cough
»
exhaust system should not be excessively noisy or rattle when engine is running
»
windscreen should be clear with no cracks or chip marks.
When test-driving the car, also check the following:
»
listen for body and suspension noise and changes in engine noise
»
check for oil and petrol smells, leaks and overheating
»
check instruments, lights and controls all work: heating, air-con, brake lights, headlights,
indicators, seatbelts and windscreen wipers
»
brakes should pull the car up straight, without pulling, vibrating or making noise
»
gears and steering should be smooth and quiet.
