Looking for student car for my sister.

[RonSwanson]

Webuycars, I would stay away. But that’s just me. Not to mention their questionable dekra reports.

I have personally gone through a roadworthy inspection with a Dekra technician, I don't have a pit at home, and I seize every good opportunity, I climbed into the pit with him. it was very valuable and insightful. He was about 65-70 years old, a retired speedcop (not Metro, the previous (pre KFC) era) who used to head up the roadworthy centre in the West of Johannesburg. The guy just oozed wisdom and knowledge, and he wasn't shy to share it. I am not exactly dumb when it comes to vehicles, having first hand personal experience in maintenance and quite a few single-handed major overhauls (VW, Leyland and Alfa Romeo), but he pointed out a number of things to me that I would have missed. These were not roadworthy items (the 160 000 km inspection vehicle passed with flying colours), but it was things that needed to be done in the next 15-60 000kms. I took notes and I was able to budget for my son's car repairs and maintenance for the next 4 years at least.

Another time I took an associate's vehicle in for a report, different branch, technician, and vehicle, but a similar experience. The report provided a lot of insight to the owner, who decided to repair and keep the vehicle and not sell it just because of an alarming dashboard light (which the OEM dealership wanted to milk).

As a result I have the greatest respect for guys at Dekra, who willingly share their knowledge and wisdom. Some of the things that they observe are beyond the scope of their test report, so it does not get mentioned, but if you are present, ask questions, and show interest, they will open up and share. Their reports are honest and factual, and have independence because (unlike the dealerships) they do not benefit anything from pointing things out. I have personally found their technicians to be highly experienced, knowledgeable and willing to go the extra mile, they tend to spend more time and effort with someone who shows an active interest in vehicle maintenance. IMHO they provide a very valuable service, and even if their reports were 3x the price, I would pay it gladly.

Why do you say that Dekra reports are questionable? Do you have something worth sharing with us?

 

[Instacar]

I have personally gone through a roadworthy inspection with a Dekra technician, I don't have a pit at home, and I seize every good opportunity, I climbed into the pit with him. it was very valuable and insightful. He was about 65-70 years old, a retired speedcop (not Metro, the previous (pre KFC) era) who used to head up the roadworthy centre in the West of Johannesburg. The guy just oozed wisdom and knowledge, and he wasn't shy to share it. I am not exactly dumb when it comes to vehicles, having first hand personal experience in maintenance and quite a few single-handed major overhauls (VW, Leyland and Alfa Romeo), but he pointed out a number of things to me that I would have missed. These were not roadworthy items (the 160 000 km inspection vehicle passed with flying colours), but it was things that needed to be done in the next 15-60 000kms. I took notes and I was able to budget for my son's car repairs and maintenance for the next 4 years at least.

Another time I took an associate's vehicle in for a report, different branch, technician, and vehicle, but a similar experience. The report provided a lot of insight to the owner, who decided to repair and keep the vehicle and not sell it just because of an alarming dashboard light (which the OEM dealership wanted to milk).

As a result I have the greatest respect for guys at Dekra, who willingly share their knowledge and wisdom. Some of the things that they observe are beyond the scope of their test report, so it does not get mentioned, but if you are present, ask questions, and show interest, they will open up and share. Their reports are honest and factual, and have independence because (unlike the dealerships) they do not benefit anything from pointing things out. I have personally found their technicians to be highly experienced, knowledgeable and willing to go the extra mile, they tend to spend more time and effort with someone who shows an active interest in vehicle maintenance. IMHO they provide a very valuable service, and even if their reports were 3x the price, I would pay it gladly.

Why do you say that Dekra reports are questionable? Do you have something worth sharing with us?

I have heard tons of people say Dekra reports are questionable, very few have shared anything worthwhile. Thanks for sharing your experience.

 

[Instacar]

You have a solid budget to get your sister a quality used car.

1. Honda Brio 1.2 The design isn't very pretty, but the car is practical and has decent features.
2. Ford Fiesta Exterior is good-looking, the interior is rather cramped.
3. Opel corsa 1.4 Essentia Solid built car
4. Kia Rio

2015-2017 models, you are spoiled for choice, search around and good luck!