Dlamini BlessingBuying a second hand car can be a daunting experience. The fear of hidden defects, inflated prices, and dishonest sellers looms large. In a city as sprawling as Johannesburg, where a reliable car is not a luxury but a necessity, finding a trustworthy dealership is crucial.
The good news is that Johannesburg is home to some of the best second hand car dealerships in the country. From massive, multi-brand supermarkets to specialised boutiques dealing in premium brands, the options are extensive. The key is knowing which ones have earned a reputation for quality, transparency, and after-sales support.
This guide ranks the top 10 second hand car dealerships in and around Johannesburg. We cover their specialities, vehicle selection, financing options, and what makes them stand out.
Top 10 Second Hand Car Dealerships in Johannesburg: Complete Guide
How The Dealerships Were Selected
We considered:
– Reputation and customer reviews.
– Quality and variety of vehicle stock.
– Transparency in pricing and vehicle history.
– Financing options and assistance.
– After-sales service and warranties.
– Years in business and industry standing.
1. We Buy Cars
Locations: Various, including Midrand, Boksburg, and Kya Sands
Speciality: All makes and models, massive inventory
Price range: R20,000 to R1,000,000+
Website: www.webuycars.co.za
We Buy Cars has revolutionised the second hand car market in South Africa. What started as a quirky “cash for cars” business has grown into the country’s largest used car dealership. Their model is simple: buy in volume, price competitively, and sell fast.
What makes it special:
– Massive inventory, often with thousands of cars on site.
– Transparent, no-haggle pricing.
– Detailed online listings with multiple photos.
– In-house financing options.
– Five-day money-back guarantee.
– Extensive network of branches.
Vehicle selection:
– Every make and model imaginable.
– From budget runabouts to luxury vehicles.
– Wide range of years and mileage.
– Auction vehicles also available.
Financing:
– In-house finance department.
– Works with multiple banks.
– Pre-approval available online.
– Trade-ins accepted.
After-sales:
– Five-day exchange policy.
– Warranty options available.
– Service plans can be added.
Best for: Buyers who want the widest possible choice and transparent pricing.
2. Auto Pedigree
Locations: Various, including Bryanston and Pretoria
Speciality: Premium and luxury pre-owned vehicles
Price range: R200,000 to R2,000,000+
Website: www.autopedigree.co.za
Auto Pedigree is the go-to dealership for premium pre-owned vehicles. They specialise in late-model, low-mileage cars from luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, and Land Rover. Their standards are exceptionally high.
What makes it special:
– Focus on premium, late-model vehicles.
– Stringent quality checks before stocking.
– Detailed vehicle history reports.
– Professional, knowledgeable sales staff.
– Beautifully presented showrooms.
Vehicle selection:
– Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Land Rover, Porsche.
– Low-mileage, well-maintained examples.
– Some volume brands in excellent condition.
– Mostly vehicles under 5 years old.
Financing:
– Works with all major banks.
– In-house finance specialists.
– Competitive interest rates.
– Trade-ins accepted.
After-sales:
– Comprehensive warranty included.
– Service plans available.
– Approved service centres nationwide.
Best for: Buyers seeking a premium vehicle with peace of mind.
3. Bidvest McCarthy
Locations: Various across Johannesburg
Speciality: Multi-franchise, certified pre-owned
Price range: R50,000 to R1,500,000+
Website: www.bidvestmccarthy.co.za
Bidvest McCarthy is one of South Africa’s largest automotive groups. Their used car divisions across Johannesburg offer a vast selection of vehicles, many of which are certified pre-owned with full service histories.
What makes it special:
– Part of a large, established automotive group.
– Certified pre-owned programme with warranties.
– Multi-franchise means access to all brands.
– Professional, dealership experience.
– Nationwide footprint for after-sales.
Vehicle selection:
– All makes and models.
– Many vehicles from their rental and leasing divisions.
– Certified pre-owned with extended warranties.
– Wide price range to suit all budgets.
Financing:
– Works with all major banks.
– In-house finance.
– Pre-approval available.
– Trade-ins accepted.
After-sales:
– Comprehensive warranties available.
– Service plans.
– Nationwide service centre network.
Best for: Buyers wanting the security of a large, established group.
4. SA VW Centre
Locations: JHB CBD and Randburg
Speciality: Volkswagen and Audi
Price range: R30,000 to R800,000+
Website: www.savw.co.za
SA VW Centre has been a fixture in Johannesburg for decades. They specialise in Volkswagen and Audi vehicles, offering a vast selection of both new and used models. Their reputation for honesty and fair dealing is well-earned.
What makes it special:
– Decades of experience.
– Specialist knowledge of VW and Audi.
– Large inventory of these brands.
– Reputation for fair dealing.
– In-house workshop for servicing.
Vehicle selection:
– Volkswagen from Polo to Touareg.
– Audi from A3 to Q7.
– Good mix of ages and mileages.
– Some non-VAG vehicles also available.
Financing:
– Works with major banks.
– In-house finance.
– Trade-ins accepted.
After-sales:
– Warranties available.
– Service plans.
– On-site workshop for VW and Audi.
Best for: Volkswagen and Audi buyers wanting specialist knowledge.
5. Cars Africa
Location: Wynberg, Sandton
Speciality: Premium and classic cars
Price range: R300,000 to R3,000,000+
Website: www.carsafrica.co.za
Cars Africa is a boutique dealership specialising in premium, classic, and collectible vehicles. They are the place to go if you are looking for something special, whether a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, a Porsche 911, or a classic Jaguar.
What makes it special:
– Curated selection of premium vehicles.
– Focus on classic and collectible cars.
– High-quality photography and listings.
– Knowledgeable, passionate staff.
– Central Sandton location.
Vehicle selection:
– Premium German brands.
– Classic British cars.
– Some exotic Italian and American vehicles.
– Low-volume, high-quality stock.
Financing:
– Works with specialist financiers.
– Assistance with classic car finance.
– Trade-ins considered.
After-sales:
– Comprehensive warranties available.
– Relationships with specialist workshops.
– Vehicle storage options.
Best for: Buyers seeking something special, classic, or collectible.
6. Motorvia
Location: Johannesburg South
Speciality: Japanese and Korean vehicles
Price range: R40,000 to R400,000+
Website: www.motorvia.co.za
Motorvia has built a strong reputation for quality Japanese and Korean vehicles at affordable prices. They focus on reliable, economical cars from brands like Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, and Kia.
What makes it special:
– Focus on reliable Japanese and Korean brands.
– Competitive pricing.
– Good range of budget-friendly vehicles.
– Honest, transparent dealing.
– Family-owned and operated.
Vehicle selection:
– Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda.
– Good mix of ages and mileages.
– Many well-maintained examples.
– Focus on mechanical soundness.
Financing:
– Works with major banks.
– In-house finance assistance.
– Trade-ins accepted.
After-sales:
– Warranties available.
– Service plans.
– Relationship with local workshops.
Best for: Buyers seeking a reliable, affordable Japanese or Korean car.
7. Auto Bavaria
Locations: Various, including Sandton and Midrand
Speciality: BMW and Mini
Price range: R100,000 to R1,500,000+
Website: www.autobavaria.co.za
Auto Bavaria is the BMW and Mini specialist. As part of the Super Group, they offer the security of a large organisation with the specialist knowledge of these brands. Their used car selection is extensive and well-presented.
What makes it special:
– Specialist in BMW and Mini.
– Part of a large, reputable group.
– Extensive selection of these brands.
– Certified pre-owned programme.
– Professional, dealership experience.
Vehicle selection:
– BMW from 1 Series to X7.
– Mini from Cooper to Countryman.
– Late-model, low-mileage examples.
– Some other premium brands.
Financing:
– Works with all major banks.
– BMW Financial Services available.
– In-house finance.
– Trade-ins accepted.
After-sales:
– BMW-approved warranties.
– Service plans.
– Nationwide BMW service centre network.
Best for: BMW and Mini buyers wanting specialist knowledge and approved vehicles.
8. Cars.co.za
Location: Online platform with physical handover in Midrand
Speciality: All makes and models
Price range: Various
Website: www.cars.co.za
Cars.co.za is primarily an online platform connecting buyers with sellers, but they have expanded into the physical space with their “Cars.co.za Approved” programme. Vehicles are vetted, and the transaction is facilitated through their platform.
What makes it special:
– Online convenience with physical verification.
– Vetted, approved vehicles.
– Transparent pricing and history.
– Consumer protection through the platform.
– Physical handover centre in Midrand.
Vehicle selection:
– All makes and models from approved dealers.
– Wide range of prices and ages.
– Detailed online listings with photos.
– Vehicle history reports available.
Financing:
– Online finance applications.
– Works with multiple banks.
– Pre-approval available.
After-sales:
– Warranty options available.
– Buyer protection through the platform.
– Returns policy in some cases.
Best for: Buyers who prefer online research and want vetted vehicles.
9. MotorMania
Locations: Various, including Kya Sands and Pretoria
Speciality: All makes, auction and retail
Price range: R20,000 to R500,000+
Website: www.motormania.co.za
MotorMania operates a unique model combining traditional retail with regular auctions. They offer a wide range of vehicles at various price points, from budget runabouts to more premium options. Their auctions can be a source of genuine bargains.
What makes it special:
– Combination of retail and auction.
– Regular auction events.
– Wide range of vehicles.
– Competitive pricing.
– Multiple branches.
Vehicle selection:
– All makes and models.
– Wide age and mileage range.
– Auction vehicles sold “as is”.
– Retail vehicles with warranties.
Financing:
– Works with major banks.
– Auction purchases require cash or pre-approved finance.
– Trade-ins accepted for retail purchases.
After-sales:
– Warranties on retail vehicles.
– Auction vehicles sold without warranty.
– Service plans available on retail.
Best for: Bargain hunters and those comfortable with auction buying.
10. Burchmores
Location: Johannesburg CBD
Speciality: All makes, high-volume dealership
Price range: R30,000 to R600,000+
Website: www.burchmores.co.za
Burchmores is a Johannesburg institution, operating in the CBD for over 90 years. They are a high-volume dealership with a vast selection of vehicles at competitive prices. Their longevity speaks to their reputation.
What makes it special:
– Over 90 years in business.
– Central Johannesburg location.
– High-volume dealership with large stock.
– Competitive pricing.
– Family-owned and operated.
Vehicle selection:
– All makes and models.
– Wide price range.
– Good selection of budget vehicles.
– Some premium options.
Financing:
– Works with all major banks.
– In-house finance.
– Trade-ins accepted.
– Assistance for buyers with credit challenges.
After-sales:
– Warranties available.
– Service plans.
– Relationship with local workshops.
Best for: Buyers wanting a central location and high-volume selection.
Second-Hand Car Dealerships Comparison Table
| Dealership | Location | Speciality | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| We Buy Cars | Various | All makes | R20k – R1m+ | Widest choice |
| Auto Pedigree | Bryanston | Premium | R200k – R2m+ | Luxury buyers |
| Bidvest McCarthy | Various | All makes | R50k – R1.5m+ | Group security |
| SA VW Centre | CBD / Randburg | VW, Audi | R30k – R800k | VW specialists |
| Cars Africa | Wynberg | Premium, classic | R300k – R3m+ | Special vehicles |
| Motorvia | Jhb South | Japanese, Korean | R40k – R400k | Affordable reliability |
| Auto Bavaria | Sandton / Midrand | BMW, Mini | R100k – R1.5m+ | BMW specialists |
| Cars.co.za | Online / Midrand | All makes | Various | Online convenience |
| MotorMania | Various | All makes | R20k – R500k | Auctions, bargains |
| Burchmores | CBD | All makes | R30k – R600k | CBD location |
What To Look For When Buying Second Hand
Vehicle history:
– Request a full service history.
– Check for outstanding finance (free at www.natis.gov.za).
– Verify the mileage is genuine.
– Consider a vehicle history report from a provider like HPI.
Mechanical condition:
– Take a test drive on various roads.
– Listen for unusual noises.
– Check for warning lights on the dashboard.
– Have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle.
Paperwork:
– Ensure the seller has clear title to the vehicle.
– Check the vehicle’s registration papers.
– Verify the seller’s ID matches the paperwork.
– Get a written sales agreement.
Warranty and after-sales:
– Understand what warranty is offered.
– Know the terms and conditions.
– Check if the warranty is with a reputable provider.
– Ask about the returns policy.
Financing Options
– Bank finance: Most buyers use standard bank vehicle finance.
– In-house finance: Some dealerships offer their own financing.
– Pre-approval: Get pre-approved before shopping to know your budget.
– Trade-ins: Negotiate the value of your current vehicle.
Common Questions, SEO FAQ Section
Is it safe to buy a second hand car from a dealership?
Yes, from reputable dealerships. They are regulated and have reputations to protect. Always choose one of the dealerships on this list.
What is the best dealership for budget cars?
We Buy Cars, MotorMania, and Burchmores have wide selections at lower price points. Motorvia is excellent for affordable Japanese and Korean cars.
Do these dealerships offer warranties?
Most do, either included or as an option. We Buy Cars offers warranty options. Auto Pedigree and Bidvest McCarthy include comprehensive warranties.
Can I trade in my old car?
Yes. All major dealerships accept trade-ins. They will assess your vehicle and offset the value against your purchase.
Do I need to book a test drive?
For popular models, yes. It is always advisable to call ahead to ensure the vehicle is available.
What documents do I need to buy a car?
– South African ID or passport.
– Proof of residence.
– Proof of income (for financing).
– Three months’ bank statements.
Can a foreigner buy a car in South Africa?
Yes. Foreigners can buy cars with a valid passport and proof of address. Financing may require additional documentation.
How long does the buying process take?
Once you have chosen a vehicle, the paperwork and financing can be completed in a few hours. Delivery may be immediate or within a day or two.
What should I do if I have problems after buying?
Contact the dealership first. Most have complaint resolution processes. If unresolved, you can approach the Motor Industry Ombudsman.
Are these dealerships open on weekends?
Most are open on Saturdays and some on Sundays. Check individual websites for hours.
Summary: Which Dealership Should You Choose?
Choose We Buy Cars if:
– You want the widest possible choice.
– You prefer no-haggle pricing.
– You are comfortable with high-volume environments.
Choose Auto Pedigree if:
– You are buying a premium vehicle.
– You want the highest quality standards.
– You value a premium buying experience.
Choose Bidvest McCarthy if:
– You want the security of a large group.
– You want certified pre-owned vehicles.
– You value a professional dealership experience.
Choose SA VW Centre if:
– You are buying a Volkswagen or Audi.
– You want specialist knowledge.
– You value decades of experience.
Choose Cars Africa if:
– You are looking for something special or classic.
– You appreciate a curated selection.
– You want a boutique buying experience.
Choose Motorvia if:
– You want a reliable Japanese or Korean car.
– You are on a budget.
– You value honest, family-owned dealing.
Choose Auto Bavaria if:
– You are buying a BMW or Mini.
– You want BMW-approved vehicles.
– You value specialist knowledge.
Choose Cars.co.za if:
– You prefer online research.
– You want vetted, approved vehicles.
– You like the convenience of online platforms.
Choose MotorMania if:
– You are looking for a bargain.
– You are comfortable with auctions.
– You want to cast a wide net.
Choose Burchmores if:
– You want a central Johannesburg location.
– You value a long-established business.
– You want a high-volume selection.
Final Warning: Caveat Emptor
Even at the best dealerships, buying a second hand car carries risk. The vehicle is used. It will have wear and tear. It may develop problems.
Protect yourself:
– Do your research.
– Take a test drive.
– Get an independent inspection.
– Read the fine print on warranties.
– Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, walk away.
A reputable dealership will welcome your questions and inspections. If they are evasive, go elsewhere.
Official Resources:
– Motor Industry Ombudsman: www.miosa.co.za
– National Traffic Information System: www.natis.gov.za
– HPI South Africa: www.hpicheck.co.za
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This guide was last updated for 2026 standards. Vehicle prices, stock availability, and dealership policies are subject to change without notice. Always verify current information directly with the dealership before visiting.