October 29th 2024.
Purchasing a pre-owned vehicle can be quite risky, as you never know what kind of trouble you may encounter. The fear of ending up with a faulty car, also known as a "lemon," is a common concern among potential buyers. However, the latest second-hand car safety ratings, which were just released today, prove that making the right choice can not only save you from potential headaches, but it can also save your life.
According to the annual guide, which is a collaborative effort between Monash University and Transport for NSW, the driver of a car with the lowest safety rating is ten times more likely to be killed or seriously injured in a crash compared to a driver in the safest vehicle. This is a staggering statistic that highlights the importance of considering safety when purchasing a used car.
To demonstrate the significance of these ratings, the NSW government has shared footage of a crash between a one-star rated 2012 Great Wall V200 and a four-star rated Colorado. The difference in the outcome of the two vehicles is quite significant, with the Colorado faring much better in the crash. Among the worst-performing cars for safety were the Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Accent, Toyota Camry, and Holden Commodore VT/VX. On the other hand, some of the safest picks included the Mazda 3, Toyota Camry, and Volkswagen Touareg.
In 2024, the ratings analyzed a staggering 9.4 million vehicles involved in police-reported crashes and 2.6 million injured road users in both Australia and New Zealand from 1987 to 2022. These numbers show the vast amount of data that goes into creating these ratings. They also highlight the significant improvements in vehicle safety over the years, with the risk of death or serious injury for drivers of 2022 models being 36% lower than cars made 20 years earlier in 2002.
The annual guide also provides some reassuring news for those on a budget. It shows that 60% of five-star rated vehicles are available on the second-hand market for less than $10,000. This means that even if you have a limited budget, you can still find a safe and reliable car.
Roads Minister John Graham stresses the importance of considering safety above all else when purchasing a used car. He urges parents of young people, who may be looking for their first car, to prioritize safety and consider purchasing the safest vehicle in their category or price range. After all, your choice of car could literally save your life.
In conclusion, the Used Car Safety Ratings guide is a valuable resource that provides simple and reliable safety information to vehicle buyers at no cost. It is a crucial tool in helping potential buyers make an informed decision and choose a car that not only runs well but also prioritizes their safety.
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