Buying a car in Argentina poses some logistical challenges. However, these obstacles are intended to protect a car buyer's safety, time and money. Whether you are looking to buy a new or used car, looking out for trustworthy deals and dealerships is paramount. When searching for a new car, avoid online and newspaper ads for "0km" -- no kilometer/mileage -- cars. These offers may present risky deals.
Search for a reliable car dealership. Look online or through the Argentinian Yellow Pages ("paginas amarillas") for a dealership. Ensure that the phone book lists the full address and a working phone number for the dealership.
Call the dealership and speak to a salesperson. Ask a few questions about the dealer's car makes and models to ensure the salesperson is knowledgeable about the merchandise. These questions can weed out phony dealers.
Check car dealership customer-rating services online. The information Argentinian car owners and shoppers provide can help car buyers unfamiliar with the Argentinian car market.
Visit the car dealership. Find a brand-specific car dealership or a general dealership selling various car brands.
Go to a an Argentinian-specific dealership for a national car model. Or, for example, visit a Chevrolet dealership if you want a foreign car model. You can also shop at a dealership with a mix of new-car brands.
Choose a dealership. Decide whether you want to buy a used car from a used-car dealership or a new- and used-car dealership. The majority of new-car dealerships in Argentina also sell used cars.
Ask the car dealer to run a background check on the used car you are interested in purchasing. Car dealers usually perform this step automatically, but it is important to ensure that the car gets checked for illegal activity or serious damage.
Sign a contract with the car's owner. Once you have decided on the used car you would like to purchase, the car owner -- or car dealer -- will ask you to sign a contract.
Verify that the statement follows your verbal agreement for how much is to be paid upfront or in installments. Agree that the contract fully transfers the used car to you. This form is called the 08 ("zero 8").
Follow up with the dealership. Check that the car verification process is under way. Ensure that the previous owner signs a document that formally states that he is 'in the process of selling the car.'
Transfer the car before a notary. Along with the former owner, sign the completed transfer paperwork. After this step, take the car -- it is officially yours.
