What is the Canberra CARFAIR?
The Canberra CARFAIR provides facilities for private sellers to display their vehicle for sale to the market. The CARFAIR operates each weekend and attracts potential buyers from all over the region. At the CARFAIR vehicle sellers enjoy an unprecedented level of exposure ensuring a fast and hassle free completion of the sale.
How does it work?
A seller displays their vehicle for sale at the CARFAIR site. The vehicle keys are left with the CARFAIR staff. Each vehicle at the CARFAIR has on display information to buyers regarding make, model, price etc. with the owners contact details. Potential buyers are allowed to take the vehicle keys and inspect the vehicle in exchange for their photographic licence. If they are interested in the vehicle then they will contact the owner directly to further progress the sale / test drive.
Can I test drive the vehicles?
No. You will need to contact the owner to arrange a test drive.
Can I take two keys at once?
No. Your licence can only be registered against one set of keys at any one time.
Do you keep record of my details?
Yes. Your licence number is recorded for security purposes each time you take a set of keys.
I tried to contact the owner but was unable to contact them, what should I do?
Sellers are advised to inform the CARFAIR staff if they are unavailable for contact. Please check with the CARFAIR staff to see if this is the case.
How do I find out if there is any money owing on a vehicle?
Each state or territory has a register of encumbered vehicles. For the ACT and NSW the contact details are www.revs.nsw.gov.au or 13 20 20.
Can I use the CARFAIR phones to contact the buyer?
No. You are required to contact the owner of the vehicle using your own personal mobile.
I have found a vehicle I want to buy, how should I proceed with the purchase?
Most buyers will test drive the vehicle in the first instance and take steps to ascertain the mechanical state. It is a common practice to leave a deposit in good faith of your intention to purchase the vehicle with the existing owner.
I saw a vehicle on your website but I can't find it on display
The CARFAIR provides unlimited display and often vehicles that are still for sale won't be on-site every weekend. Please phone the CARFAIR to check if the car that you are interested in has arrived for display for the weekend.
I have found a car I like, where can I get a printout of the info?
When you return the key following your inspection, ask the CARFAIR staff for a printout of the vehicle information. The printout will include everything you need for a revs check including contact details for the owner.
I saw a warning sign about the title of the vehicle, what does this mean?
All vehicles on display at the CARFAIR are private vehicles and under statutory requirements we need to display that sign. The sign simply enforces that as a buyer that it is in your interest to verify the ownership and encumbrances pertaining to a vehicle.
What facilities are on-site to help me find and purchase a vehicle?
The CARFAIR staff will assist you in any way possible. You are able to take advantage of our high speed internet for research. You are able to perform on-line revs checks in the office, transfer money via the internet. You can also take advantage of a secure room for cash transactions.
Will the CARFAIR staff tell me what I should pay for a particular vehicle?
No. It is your responsibility to conduct your own research and determine what you are willing to pay for a vehicle. Under no circumstances will CARFAIR staff disclose any information given to them in confidence by the seller.