Buying Your First Car in South Africa? Here's the 2025 Beginner's Guide

🚗 Buying Your First Car in South Africa? Here's the 2025 Beginner's Guide

Stepping into the world of car ownership for the first time? Whether you're a student, graduate, or first-time employee — buying your first car is a big deal, especially in 2025 when prices, scams, and finance terms can get overwhelming.

This beginner-friendly guide will walk you through what to look out for, how to budget smartly, and how to use Autowise SA to make the best decision.

🔑 Step 1: Know Your Budget

  • 💰 Don’t spend more than 20% of your monthly income on repayments
  • 🔄 Include costs like insurance, fuel, and maintenance
  • 💳 Avoid balloon payments unless you fully understand them

Example: If you earn R12,000/month, your monthly installment shouldn’t exceed ±R2,400

❌ Step 2: Avoid These Common Mistakes

  • ❌ Buying based on looks, not reliability
  • ❌ Not checking service history or accident damage
  • ❌ Skipping price comparisons (you’ll overpay!)

✅ Step 3: Check These First-Time Friendly Cars (2025)

  • ✅ Suzuki Swift – R180K
  • ✅ Toyota Starlet – R230K
  • ✅ VW Polo Vivo – R195K
  • ✅ Renault Kwid – R170K
  • ✅ Used Ford Figo – R130K–R160K

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