The most important things to know before you buy a car
- @October24sa
- Jun 12
- 3 min read
I am sure you want a car that is reliable and is most likely to last you a long time. Although that is important, it is no longer the number one thing one must aim for. Technology has advanced to a point where you can close your eyes and pick any brand and the car will last you a long time. That is with the exception of heavy duty vehicles and industrial equipment, in such cases one needs to ensure that the manufacturer can meet the demands. All small cars can meet the minimum requirement of transporting a person or persons from point A to point B. The differentiator then becomes the style with which you want to travel. In the age of social media people have an exaggerated feeling of being observed by crowds, even though they would not tell you how many people wearing shortsleeve t-shirts they met at the shopping center. Perhaps people are watching and judging, the question then becomes: for how long? Once you leave people’s present they forget you even exist; out of sight out of mind.Â
There is one group of civilians that is very interested and are paying careful attention. The hijackers. They care about the brand on your car and what model it is. They spend hours learning about its security installations and how to disarm them. They know how big your engine is; how good and powerful your transmission is; how the headlights are installed; and how your suspension is designed. They know all that and the price value of all those items and where the demand is. You best believe they are interested.Â
Why should you care for more than just style? As much as it is unfair, there is a sweet spot in the spectrum of style where you have a good car and are safe from hijackers. You might be tempted to think: why should others have a significant influence on what car and style I choose? Well, if they did not have any influence you would not have any problem choosing a car that serves your needs and lowers your chances of being hijacked. Now! Let us help you navigate the automotive space.
 Here are brands that are the most sold and exported in the southern region of Africa. Now keep in mind that these brands and makes are expensive in South Africa making them luxury by price. South Africa has the strong currency in the Southern region of the continent, by virtue of the exchange rate these car models are exponentially expensive in neighbouring countries we trade with. These brands and makes are scarce in neighboring countries, not because they do not want to own and drive these luxury vehicles, they cannot afford them. What other means are available for accessing them? You guessed it right.Â
[regions we trade with]
What you need to know before you buy a car is: first, location. Not where you can buy the car, although it is important, but where you are going to drive the car most of the time. Crime rate in areas is hard to measure and South Africa is not best known for their exceptional data capturing systems. Using the information we have already discussed (most popular brands and makes; countries we export to; affordability in those countries) you are almost on your way to the right car dealership.   Â
Most traded auto part Between Neighbours
In case you did not know, there are automotive components or car parts that are compatible between brands and vehicle makes. This means, when you cannot gain hold of the original spare part, there is a brand that uses the same part and is the alternative. Engines are one of those major parts that can be transplanted into cars with very little modification if any is required at all. No surprise our neighbours are buying more engines than any other car components. If your car tracking system is good, you are most likely to find your car within a few hours of it getting stolen. However, you are most likely not going to be driving it back home; or anywhere for that matter. The engine will be gone. The watchers also know the most responsive car trackers, leaving them to make hard choices when it comes to components they strip out of your car. Not saying one should look to hijackers for assistance with choosing the best car tracking device or company. Not completely disregarding the option if it is on the table.