Terms and Conditions

Last updated 2026

1. Definitions

  • "User", "you", or "your" means any person accessing or using the Car Trader application or services.
  • "Dealer" means an authorised vehicle dealership listing vehicles on Car Trader.
  • "Vehicle" means any motor vehicle listed for sale on the Car Trader platform.
  • "Deposit" refers to an amount paid by a User to reserve a listed Vehicle before the finance and documentation process is complete.

2. Purpose of the Platform

Car Trader facilitates the listing and marketing of quality second-hand vehicles by dealers and allows users to view, enquire about, and apply for finance on these vehicles. Car Trader also assists in managing the finance process and delivery logistics.

Car Trader does not own or sell vehicles directly. All vehicles are listed and sold by authorised third-party dealers.

3. Credit Information and Finance Application

3.1 Consent to Access Credit Information

By applying for vehicle finance through Car Trader, you explicitly consent to Car Trader and its finance partners accessing your personal and financial information, including your credit report held by credit bureaus such as TransUnion, for the purpose of evaluating your finance application.

3.2 Use of Credit Information

All personal and financial information collected is used solely for the purpose of determining your eligibility for vehicle finance. Car Trader complies with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and relevant South African credit laws.

4. Vehicle Deposits

4.1 Deposit to Hold Vehicle

To reserve a vehicle listed on Car Trader, a deposit will be required. The deposit amount may vary and will be communicated to you at the time of your application.

4.2 Deposit Process and Conditions

  • The deposit secures the vehicle temporarily while the necessary documentation, credit vetting, and finance processes are undertaken.
  • Submission of a deposit does not constitute a final sale or delivery agreement.

4.3 Refunds for Unsuccessful Applications

If your finance application is unsuccessful, your deposit will be refunded in full within 7–10 working days from the date of rejection confirmation. Refunds will be made via the same payment method used to pay the deposit unless otherwise agreed.

4.4 Cancellation

Should you cancel your application after submitting a deposit, Car Trader reserves the right to deduct administrative fees from the refund, subject to applicable consumer protection laws.

5. No Guarantee of Finance or Vehicle Availability

Car Trader makes no guarantee that:

  • Your finance application will be approved.
  • The reserved vehicle will remain available beyond a reasonable holding period (which is affected by delays in document submission, finance approval, etc.).

Car Trader cannot be held liable for a vehicle being sold by the dealer to another party if the User has delayed or failed to complete required processes.

6. User Obligations

By using the App or submitting an application, you agree to:

  • Provide accurate, complete, and truthful information.
  • Promptly respond to requests for additional documentation or clarification during the finance process.
  • Abide by all applicable laws and Car Trader platform terms while using the services.

7. Intellectual Property

All content, trademarks, logos, and data on the Car Trader platform, including software and databases, are the property of Car Trader or its licensors. You may not copy, modify, distribute, or use any of the content without prior written consent.

8. Limitation of Liability

Car Trader is not liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from your use of the platform, including but not limited to lost profits or data. Car Trader's total liability is limited to the amount you have paid to use our services, if any.

9. Privacy and Data Protection

Car Trader respects your privacy and processes personal data in accordance with applicable data protection laws, including POPIA. Details on how we collect, use, and protect your data are outlined in our Privacy Policy.

10. Termination

Car Trader may suspend or terminate your access to the platform at any time without notice if you violate these terms or use the platform in a harmful or illegal manner. Users may terminate their account by contacting support.

11. Governing Law

These terms are governed by the laws of South Africa. Any disputes shall be subject to the jurisdiction of South African courts.

12. Contact Us

If you have questions, complaints, or require assistance, please contact us at:

  • Email: [email protected]
  • Phone: +27 11 123 4567
  • Address: 123 CarTrader Street, Johannesburg, South Africa