More COVID-19 and cars questions answered

Australia is on track to have safely navigated the first stages of dealing with the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.

It’s early days, but restrictions on movement, social distancing strategies and the temporary closure of some businesses appear to have largely stemmed the tide of new cases. But the unwinding of these restrictions is yet to start, and many will likely stay in place for some time.

Many consumers have questions that relate to private car usage and the commercial and logistical aspect of buying and selling cars. Since Australia’s response to COVID-19 begun in earnest carsales has endeavoured to provide practical answers to consumers questions.

This article aggregates that content and addresses some ongoing questions regarding the impact of COVID-19 on car ownership and car buying.

Yes, the majority of Australian new and used car dealership are open for business.

Car dealerships have responded well to the COVID-19. In addition to quickly meeting and in most cases exceeding the hygiene and social distancing recommendations, many dealerships have fast tracked ‘buy from home’ services that include home test drives, video conferencing and the like.

Dealers advertising their vehicles on carsales are able to indicate these services via carsales ‘badges’: tags attached to cars for sale that detail the remote services they offer.

The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), the peak body for the automotive industry in Australia, has confirmed that vehicle buyers can test drive prospective purchases.

“To facilitate the purchasing process, the Chamber [FCAI] understands that short evaluation or test drives are permissible for prospective customers wishing to purchase a vehicle for their essential commuting requirements,” the FCAI said.

Many dealerships are suggesting purchasers test drive solo. If that’s not suggested, don’t be afraid to ask the salesperson to stay at the dealership or failing that get them to sit in the back. You’re not being rude, just observing the social distancing recommendations (do so also in the dealership).

There are more car buying and COVID-19 tips here

Keeping your car cleaner and safer during COVID-19 should not be onerous. The same basic hygiene rules apply to your car as they do at home.

It’s smart to wash your hands before and after you drive your car – and before someone else drives it. We have compiled some very basic hygiene actions in conjunction with Motorsport Safety and Rescue (MSR), which in turn is using the protocols in preparation of media test vehicles on advice received from Ambulance Victoria.

Am I at risk while refuelling my car during COVID-19
Assuming you practice appropriate social distancing, refuelling your car shouldn’t pose any more risk that other shopping activities.

We would suggest, however, that disposable gloves or at the very least thoroughly washing your hands after handling the bowser.

There are more detail on refuelling, driving and breakdowns during COVID-19 tips here

Life goes on under COVID-19 and many people chose to sell their cars privately. A few easy measures can make the process safer for both you and your prospective buyers.

Under the current (April 21) coronavirus regulations, the simple answer is no. Unless you have a bona-fide reason to be travelling (ie: shopping, working when it cannot be done remotely, etc), then you are required under law to stay at home.

There are some exceptions that allow you to drive such as in the case of learner drivers and drivers attending a lesson for the purposes of employment such as a heavy goods vehicle licence upgrade.

There are some simple things you can do to keep your car in good shape while it’s not being driven, or at the very least, being driven less. Here’s a link to our maintenance tips.