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Queensland Transport
Home > Registration > Motor vehicles > Buying or selling a used vehicle

Buying or selling a used vehicle

Used car safety ratings

If you are buying a used car, it's worth considering whether your car's safety and design features are likely to protect you or harm other road users in a crash. The Used Car Safety Ratings Buyer's Guide 2009 for Passenger Vehicles Built 1992-2007* can help you decide whether that car you've set your sights on is right for you.

How safe is your car?

Visit the How Safe Is Your Car* website for detailed information about used car safety ratings and safety features that people should look for when buying used cars.

Buying a used vehicle?

An image of a vehicle for sale

If you are buying a used vehicle you need to ensure that there is a current safety certificate displayed. A safety certificate identifies the authorised inspection station that issued the certificate, and it must be displayed on the vehicle from the time it is offered for sale.

If a safety certificate is not displayed, it is likely the vehicle has not been checked and should not be considered for purchase. A buyer's checklist is available.

Selling a vehicle?

If you are selling a registered vehicle, you will need to obtain and display a safety certificate from the moment you offer the vehicle for sale. The safety certificate must be displayed on a conspicuous part of the vehicle. Contact an approved inspection station to arrange an inspection. Fees for inspections are paid directly to the station. A seller's checklist is available.

If you fail to display a safety certificate on the vehicle from the moment you offer it for sale you are subject to receiving an on-the-spot fine of A$500.



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Last updated 19 August 2009