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Turners Cars Review - Must-Know Insights For Car Buyers and Car Sellers

Our review provides a clear understanding of how Turners operates for both car buyers and sellers. We cover the BuyNow service, CashNow option, consumer protections, and essential facts and FAQs, ensuring you are well-informed for a smoother car buying or selling experience.
Updated 17 October 2024
​Summary

For Buyers, Turners offers:
  • New Zealand's largest used car dealer: Turners Cars, part of the Turners Automotive Group, is New Zealand's largest used car dealer. It offers both auction and the popular BuyNow fixed-price sales.
  • Structured and transparent buying process: Unlike private sales or dealing with sellers on Trade Me, Turners Cars provides transparency and support, including vehicle inspection reports covering mechanical condition, visible damage, and vehicle history. Turners encourages potential buyers to arrange a test drive and an independent pre-purchase inspection for peace of mind.
  • BuyNow option for hassle-free car purchase: BuyNow offers a straightforward buying experience without auctions, providing certainty and avoiding the stress of bidding. This is Turners' most popular way to sell cars to the general public.
  • 5-Day money-back guarantee: BuyNow purchases come with a 5-day money-back guarantee, significantly reducing buyer risk. This guarantee is not available for auction purchases.
  • Financing, warranties and insurance: Turners offers financing, warranties, and MBI for added convenience, though buyers are advised to compare options to get the best deal. However, pre-approved finance from other lenders may provide better terms.
  • Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA) protection: Vehicles purchased through BuyNow are covered by the CGA, but CGA protections may not apply to auctioned vehicles unless sold by a vendor "in trade."

For Sellers, Turners offers:
  • Multiple selling options: Sellers can use Turners' CashNow to get a quote for a fast sale. They can also list the vehicle for auction to achieve the 'market' price.
  • CashNow for convenience: CashNow offers are quick but typically receive less than you would in a private sale. The process is simple: you book an appointment, get the car assessed within 30-45 minutes, and receive an offer valid for up to seven days. Payment is made via bank transfer, usually within a day or two.
  • No dealing with private buyers: Selling with CashNow (or putting it in an auction) means avoiding the hassle of tyre-kickers, unreliable buyers, and the complexities of arranging test drives.
  • Transparent fees: Turners' fee structure is clear, with sellers paying auction fees and buyers paying a premium fee. Although this may lead to slightly higher costs, the convenience and safety make it worthwhile for many sellers.

​Know This First: We have focused on Turners Cars throughout this review, but Turners sells all types of vehicles (from trucks to boats to other vehicles). Our understanding is that most New Zealanders prefer to buy a car from Turners for a fixed price, rather than participate in an auction. For this reason, our review focuses on Turners' BuyNow service, which lets you test-drive and organise an independent Pre-Purchase Car Inspections. 

To help explain what you need to know, our review covers:
Important: Is there a risk of buying a dud car from Turners? What protections do I have?
A common concern among potential buyers is the fear of purchasing a subpar vehicle. This fear isn't specific to Turners; it's a risk with any used car. The good news is that Turners is the largest used car network in New Zealand with 20 car dealer locations nationwide. It takes several measures to limit this risk and ensure buyer confidence:

1. Inspection process and inspection reports: Most vehicles listed undergo a basic inspection, and reports are made available to prospective buyers. These basic vehicle condition guides include information on the vehicle's mechanical condition, visible damage, and the results of any tests conducted. Turners also provides vehicle history reports detailing previous ownership, accident history, and any outstanding finance. This transparency allows buyers to make informed decisions based on comprehensive data.

2. Warranties and guarantees: Turners offers a 5-Day MoneyBack Guarantee (for private buyers buying through the BuyNow channel); this is not available to anyone buying from auction. 

3. Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA): All cars purchased through BuyNow are covered by the CGA. However, for auctions, you may or may not be covered by the the CGA. To be covered, the vendor you buy the car from needs to be "In Trade". If Turners is selling on behalf of a private person, then the CGA does not apply.

4. Insurance: Turners offers Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) and standard car insurance that can be paired with the car purchase. However, the quotes you are offered are best compared with comprehensive car insurance and MBI offers to ensure you're getting the best value.

Advertising Disclosure: We may earn a referral fee if you choose to buy or sell a car through Turners via links on our website. This does not affect our reviews, which remain independent and impartial.

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Understanding the History and Services of Turners

Turners has a history dating back to 1967, when Garth Turner founded it in Auckland. Initially established as a small operation to facilitate the sale of vehicles, Turners has grown significantly over the decades to become the largest buyer and seller of used vehicles in New Zealand. The company's growth trajectory includes strategic expansions, acquisitions, and establishing 20+ car sales branches nationwide.

Turners Cars has three core business offerings:

1. Direct (non-auction) Vehicle Sales
  • Turners Cars has an extensive car retail network at the heart of its operations. With numerous branches across New Zealand, Turners offers a vast selection of vehicles, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end models.
  • Each branch is staffed with knowledgeable professionals who help customers in finding the perfect vehicle to match their needs and budget. The network is supported by a Support Office in Auckland, which allows for some centralised operations, the sharing of resources, and a strong strategic direction.
  • Turners Cars offers the popular 'BuyNow' option, allowing customers to purchase vehicles outright without the need to be part of an auction. This feature particularly appeals to those who prefer a straightforward buying process without the competitive nature of auctions. We understand a large percentage of Turners retail car sales are completed by BuyNow rather than auctions in response to the preference of buyers. 
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2. Car Auctions
  • Turners auctions provide a dynamic and exciting platform for purchasing vehicles at potentially lower prices than traditional retail. Turners conduct regular car auctions that attract private buyers and dealers. These auctions provide a dynamic and competitive platform for buying and selling vehicles. They are held regularly across various Turners branches and attract diverse vehicles and participants. You can see the schedule of upcoming auctions here.

3. Comprehensive Services (Post-Purchase)
  • Turners Cars doesn't operate in isolation; it leverages the comprehensive services offered by Turners Automotive Group to enhance its value proposition. This includes car finance from Turners Finance, and comprehensive car insurance, mechanical breakdown insurance, and loan protection insurance.
  • Customers buying a car from Turners Cars can bundle these insurance products, protecting them against unforeseen circumstances. However, as our dedicated guides explain, the best approach is to compare options around finance and car insurance, and also challenge whether you do need specific add-on insurances that can be expensive.

MoneyHub Founder Christopher Walsh shares his views about using Turners as a Car Seller:

"For most people looking to sell a typical car, selling privately will almost always give you the highest price compared to trading it in or accepting Turners' CashNow offer. However, 'going it alone' and using Trade Me (or similar) often comes at a significant cost in terms of time, effort, and stress. Selling privately means dealing with the general public, which can involve tire-kickers, scammers, and unrealistic buyers - all of whom will almost always make the process frustrating.

Turners offers a hassle-free alternative for sellers who value convenience and safety. By selling to Turners, you can completely avoid the headaches of listing your car on platforms and then dealing with endless messages, lowball offers and unsolicited 'exchanges', arranging viewings, and managing unpredictable test drives, all of which can quickly become overwhelming. There's also the potential danger of meeting strangers for test drives and the risk of dealing with buyers who ultimately don't pay.

The selling process with Turners is straightforward and efficient, taking about 20 to 30 minutes. They manage all the paperwork for you, and you receive the payment directly into your bank account within 2 to 3 business days - offering speed and certainty that many sellers find worthwhile. Of course, this means you will likely get a lower amount of money, but Turners has to make a profit from the work (and risk) it undertakes to sell your car.

Numerous Reddit threads highlight the challenges of selling cars on Trade Me, such as this one, where users express their frustrations with tire-kickers and scammers. A popular post from early 2024 further shines a light on the abundance of scams, making Turners a more appealing option for sellers prioritising security and ease over maximum profit. However, I understand that every seller is different and the offers from Turners will range in value depending on what car you're selling".
Christopher Walsh
MoneyHub Founder

How Does Turners' Business Model Work? How Do They Make Money?

​Turners Cars operates on a business model that facilitates vehicle transactions through auctions and direct sales. The company generates revenue from several streams, including:

1. Auction Fees (Seller): Sellers are charged a fee to list their vehicles for auction. This fee covers the inspection, listing, and marketing of the vehicle. The fee varies depending on the sale price (and only has a percentage component if the final sale price is above $2,000 or if it's a classic/prestige car). The auction fee is critical to Turners revenue, providing the financial basis for its comprehensive services. You can see the current Turners Car Seller Fees here.

2. Buyer Fees: In addition to the hammer price, buyers pay a premium fee, which is a flat rate depending on the final bid amount, ranging from $360 to $740 (except for classic or prestige cars, which have a 6.3% flat percentage fee). This premium contributes to Turners income while supporting the auction infrastructure and services provided. You can see the current Turners Car Buyer Fees here.

3. Direct Sales: Turners also engages in direct purchases and vehicle sales. In this model, Turners buys vehicles outright from sellers and then sells them through their platform. The margin between the purchase and sale prices contributes to the company's profitability.

4. Additional Services: As stated above, Turners offers financing options, extended warranties, and insurance services. These add-on services add to the company's revenue streams.

5. Online Platform: The company's online presence is a significant aspect of its business model. Turners expands its reach and operational efficiency by facilitating online auctions and providing comprehensive vehicle information digitally. 

MoneyHub Founder Christopher Walsh shares his views about using Turners as a Car Buyer:

Christopher Walsh
MoneyHub Founder
​"For buyers, Turners offers convenience and security that is hard to match with private sales. When buying from Turners, you can confidently know the car has gone through a basic check, and the risks of scams, finance owing or undisclosed issues are significantly reduced compared to dealing with individual sellers.

Many private sellers may not be upfront about the car's condition, leading to unexpected repair bills soon after the purchase. Also, private sellers don't offer any Consumer Guarantees Act protection, whereas cars bought via Turners BuyNow are protected.

Buying from Turners also means avoiding the uncertainty and stress of meeting strangers for test drives or haggling over price. With Turners, you can compare multiple vehicles at once, inspect them in person without any pressure, and even consider their finance and insurance options (as part of a comprehensive comparison). While prices may be slightly higher than buying privately, many people find that the peace of mind, transparency, and convenience of buying from a reputable dealer make up for the difference.

It's worth noting that Turners sells cars using a fixed price, which can benefit buyers who dislike the negotiation process. Additionally, Turners' auctions can provide opportunities to secure a deal, although it's important to set a budget, be realistic about the final price, and ensure you can pay for it (to avoid losing your deposit). 

Whatever you decide to do, Turners is a popular place to buy cars, but you'll still need to do your due diligence (for example, organising a pre-purchase vehicle test and doing a test drive) to make sure you're buying with confidence".

Pros for Using Turners as a Car Buyer

Our list below helps explain the reasons why Turners is popular with thousands of New Zealanders buying a car every month.

1. A massive selection of cars to choose from
  • Turners offers thousands of vehicles for buyers, ranging from everyday cars to luxury models and specialised vehicles like trucks and machinery. This variety means buyers can often find exactly what they want in one place.
  • Whatever you're looking for, we believe Turners likely has something to meet your needs and is a strong starting point for anyone looking to buy a used car. The variety ensures buyers can find vehicles across different price ranges and categories.

2. Strong inspection and transparency process
  • ​Turners strongly emphasises transparency, providing a basic vehicle condition guide and vehicle history checks for all listings. These reports cover various aspects of the vehicle's condition, including mechanical health, exterior and interior condition, and any notable issues. Turners recommends that all buyers get a Pre-Purchase Inspection.
  • We believe Turner's transparency helps buyers make informed decisions, reducing the risk of purchasing a vehicle with hidden problems.

3. The smooth auction process/experience and hands-off approach of letting another third party facilitate the sale
  • Another significant advantage is the efficiency and convenience of the auction process. The auction experience at Turners is designed to be straightforward and engaging.
  • Buyers can participate in person or online, offering flexibility and convenience. Turners provides guidance and support for those new to auctions to help navigate the process effectively.
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4. Post-purchase financing options
  • Turners collaborates with several financial institutions to offer financing options to buyers. However, we suggest comparing the market and getting offers in advance from a wide array of lenders. Our car finance guide is a helpful starting point to see options available. If you proceed with Turners' finance, all Turners branches have on-site business managers available to help answer questions and facilitate getting car finance if required.​

Pros for Using Turners as a Car Seller

Anyone can get a free quote from Turners. However, there is no obligation to accept the quote and sell the car. Many car owners favour Turners because it takes away the hassle of managing a private sale using the likes of Trade Me or AutoTrader. However, the decision remains yours. You can also let the market decide by setting a reserve and letting Turners auction the car. Our list below helps explain the reasons why Turners is popular with sellers.

​1. Increased reach and visibility (if you're auctioning)
  • One of the primary advantages of using Turners Cars is the extensive reach and visibility it offers sellers. The more people see the car you want to sell, the more likely you'll get more bidders on auction day (and ultimately, the higher the value you'll get for the car).
  • Listing a vehicle with Turners means accessing a vast audience of potential buyers, increasing the chances of a successful sale at a competitive price. The company's marketing efforts and nationwide presence ensure that a broad and diverse audience sees listed vehicles.

2. Extremely easy listing process (if you accept the CashNow price or auction it)
  • Selling a vehicle through Turners is designed to be a hassle-free experience where people book and receive an appraisal online. 
  • You can either accept the cash offer Turners will make (known as the CashNow price) or choose to ask Turners to sell on your behalf at auction. 
  • The listing process provides detailed information about the vehicle, including its condition, history, and relevant documentation. Turners staff help with valuations and provide guidance on setting a competitive starting price.

3. Expert car valuation and advice (if you decide to auction the car)
  • Turners provides expert valuation services, ensuring sellers receive a fair and accurate assessment of their vehicle's market value. This professional advice can be invaluable in setting realistic price expectations and maximising the sale outcome. The valuation process considers various factors, including the vehicle's condition, market trends, and demand.

4. Relatively cheap and transparent seller fees (for auctions)
  • Turners charge a listing fee for auction vehicles, covering inspection, listing, and marketing costs. While some sellers might view this as a drawback, the fee structure is transparent, and the comprehensive services provided often justify the cost. Sellers know all fees upfront, ensuring no surprises during the transaction process.

5. Optionality to go to auction yourself or sell directly to Turners
  • Sellers at Turners can either list their vehicle for auction or sell it directly to Turners. The auction route is ideal for those who want to achieve a higher sale price through competitive bidding. On the other hand, the direct sale (CashNow option) offers a quicker transaction, with Turners purchasing the vehicle outright. This flexibility allows sellers to choose the best method based on their needs and timelines.

6. Lower risks with Turners handling the post-sale transactional documentation
  • Selling a vehicle privately can be fraught with risks, including dealing with unreliable buyers, negotiating prices, and handling payments.
  • By selling through Turners, sellers will almost always reduce these risks. Turners handles the entire transaction process, from listing to final sale, providing both parties with a secure and professional environment.

Cons for Using Turners as a Car Buyer or Car Seller

Despite its many advantages, Turners Cars have some potential drawbacks, which we outline below. 

1. Higher costs compared to just buying and selling privately: One of the primary concerns for sellers is the auction fee, which can be perceived as high, especially if the vehicle does not sell for the desired price. Additionally, the auction process can sometimes result in lower-than-expected sale prices due to the competitive nature of bidding.
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​2. Generally slower than buying from a dealer (if using the auction process): Another potential drawback is the time to wait for the auction; it may be a week away. However, Turners can approach the vendor with an offer in advance to see if a deal can be done. 

3. Unfavourable pricing for both buyers and sellers at auction (e.g. the price is too high or too low): There's a risk of paying too much as a buyer (given the auction format naturally leads the highest bidder to win - even if they're drastically overpaying for the car). On the seller side, there's a risk of the car selling for too low (given the low buyer demand and the risk of lowball offers, especially when selecting "no reserve") or may not sell at all. The auction fee is non-refundable, so there is a financial risk if the vehicle does not attract sufficient interest. Additionally, the competitive bidding environment makes the final sale price unpredictable. 

The car market fluctuates heavily (given that cars are usually discretionary purchases and have high costs relative to other spending). The value of vehicles can vary based on market conditions, economic factors, and consumer demand, which can impact the final sale price and overall satisfaction with the transaction.

4. Risk of buying sub-par cars (due to the inherent auction process and lengthy due diligence process with vast information provided): The primary risk for buyers lies in the potential for undisclosed or undetected issues with the vehicle. Despite comprehensive inspections, some problems may not be apparent until after the purchase. Buyers should be prepared for additional repair costs and ensure they budget accordingly.

While Turners provides a basic vehicle condition guide, there is always an inherent risk in buying used vehicles, particularly if undisclosed issues become apparent only after the sale. This underscores the importance of thorough inspections and due diligence. Turners themselves highly recommend a 3rd party pre-purchase inspection to be done.

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Does Turners Buy Any Car or Vehicle? How Can I Sell My Car to Turners?

Generally, Turners will quote for most cars. It also has a dedicated valuation service for damaged, deregistered and broken down cars. There are two main ways that Turners gets cars to sell:

1. Sell on behalf of the owner: To initiate the selling process, vehicle owners can bring their vehicles to any Turners branch for an appraisal. To provide a fair and competitive offer, Turners experts assess the vehicle's condition, market value, and other relevant factors. This offer is typically valid for a limited period, during which the seller can decide whether to accept it or proceed to auction.​

2. Buy the car directly from the owner, then sell themselves: For sellers who prefer a quicker transaction, Turners also offers a direct purchase option. In this option, they buy the vehicle outright, eliminating the need to go through the auction process. This service is useful for anyone looking to sell their vehicle swiftly without waiting for an auction date.

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What Do Customers Say About Turners?

  • ​Generally, the feedback has been positive (from both buyers and sellers). Unlike buying through Trade Me, Turners acting as a more hands-on intermediary means you have much more visibility, transparency, protection, and professionalism when dealing with Turners. 
  • Additionally, a novel benefit is working with a third party that manages the auction process (including the in-person aspects - which can be far more engaging). The availability of basic vehicle condition information and the option to inspect vehicles are commonly highlighted as positive aspects.
  • However, as with any large organisation, there are criticisms. Drawing from recent online reviews seen by our research team, some buyers have complained about the fees. However, we believe Turners is very transparent about all of their fees.
  • Furthermore, there are complaints about the limitations of the condition guide. We believe that if you're serious about a specific car, you must undertake due diligence by test-driving and paying for a pre-purchase car inspection.
  • Important: Overall, the consensus is that Turners offers a reliable and trustworthy platform for vehicle transactions backed by years of industry experience and a robust operational framework. We believe that complaints about low-value bids at an auction are not Turners' doing but reflection of the market. Furthermore, we don't believe Turners is responsible when a car fails to sell at auction given sellers can set the reserve and accept a CashNow price.
  • Some car sellers have expressed concerns about the low CashNow price offered, particularly highlighting the disparity between the purchase price and the amount the car is later sold for to a new buyer. However, Turners is a business that needs to profit from buying and selling cars. Sellers can always list their car on Trade Me and AutoTrader as a private seller or take it to another dealer.
  • However, by using Turners, they take all the hassle away from you and take on the risk, so if there is an issue with the car later on, you won't have an angry buyer contacting you. Also, Turners CashNow solves the issue of a car not selling - sellers would otherwise have to figure out how to store it and keep it running in the hopes it eventually sells.

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Must-Know Facts Related to Turners

Our list below covers both buyers and sellers.

1. You're not locked in with Turners - there's no downside to talking with them

Whether you're a buyer or seller, talking to Turners is one player in the market for buying or selling a car. You are always free to walk away if you don't like the price they offer (or you don't like their buying process). 

We believe that the best approach is to visit Turners, look at Trade Me, and talk to other dealers and private sellers to research the market. There is no need to limit yourself to one option.

2. As a seller, beware of the "no reserve" option

While cheaper, convenient, and likely to result in a fast sale, be careful with the "No Reserve" option. Just because the fee is a bit lower for no reserve doesn't mean you should choose that option. If, for whatever reason, there's a very small turnout on auction day for your car and there are not a lot of bidders, you may end up selling your car for far less than it's worth if you had set a reserve.

While there are situations where setting a "no reserve" option makes sense (for example, if you're in a rush to sell), it's not a great option for most sellers when options like CashNow exist.

3. Only finance a car if you are confident you can afford the repayments

Car finance traps many New Zealanders into expensive debt. Turners works with many lenders to offer post-purchase financing, but the fees and interest rates may not be the best in the market. We suggest reading our guide to car finance and consider arranging pre-approved finance before agreeing to buy any car. ​​

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General ​Frequently Asked Questions Related to Turners

Can I sell my car directly to Turners without going through the auction process?

Yes. Turners offers a direct purchase option where they buy your vehicle outright. This option provides a quick and convenient way to sell your car without waiting for an auction.

What should I do if the vehicle I purchased has undisclosed issues?

If you discover undisclosed issues with a vehicle purchased from Turners, you should contact them immediately. Depending on the circumstances, Turners may offer support or resolution options.

Can I take a test drive in a Turners Car?

Turners allow you to test drive any car before purchasing. You must bring a Restricted or Full driver's licence (or an equivalent overseas license). Test drives are available by booking online or visiting the branch. They are usually accompanied by a staff member on the road.

How do I know if the car I like has mechanical problems?

Turners always recommend an independent mechanical check before purchasing any used car. This check will reveal if the car requires maintenance, has problems, or has been in an accident. Turners can assist in arranging this check.

What other problems could cars have that Turner deals with?

The two main benefits of buying through Turners that they sort out are:
  1. Debt Owing: Ensure there is no outstanding debt on the car, as you could be liable for it.
  2. Legal Ownership: Verify the car is not stolen.

Turners guarantees that cars sold by them are not stolen and have no unpaid finance debt, ensuring clear title.

What is the difference between a NZ New car and an import?

"Imported Cars" are first owned and used outside New Zealand, mostly from Japan. Registration in New Zealand is required. In contrast, "NZ New Cars" are imported brand new by a manufacturer and first registered in New Zealand, with easily accessible history.

How can I learn more about the car's history?

CIN Cards are available in the vehicle listing, providing details like colour, registration, VIN, engine numbers, and mileage. More detailed information can be purchased from CarJam.

How does BuyNow work?

BuyNow cars have a fixed price and can be purchased immediately without waiting for an auction.

What's the relationship between Turners Automotive Group and Turners Cars?

Turners Cars is a division of the Turners Automotive Group:
  • The Turners Automotive Group is a large organisation that includes multiple subsidiaries involved in various aspects of the automotive industry, such as vehicle sales, finance, insurance, and fleet management.
  • Turners Cars specialises in selling cars through auctions, BuyNow, and Trade Me sales, benefiting from the resources and support of the Turners Automotive Group.

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Frequently Asked Questions Specific to Buying a Car at a Turners Auction

How can I participate in a Turners car auction?

You can participate in a Turners car auction in person at one of their branches or online through their website. Registration is required, and you must provide valid identification and payment details.

Can I inspect the vehicle before bidding?

Yes, Turners encourages potential buyers to inspect vehicles before bidding. Physical inspections can be done at Turners branches; basic vehicle condition guides are also available online. Turners recommends that all buyers get an independent pre-purchase inspection done.

What happens if I win a bid but change my mind about the purchase?

Winning a bid at Turners car auction is a binding commitment. If you change your mind, you may forfeit your deposit and be subject to additional fees. It is crucial to be certain before placing a bid.

How long do I have to pay the remaining balance after winning a bid?

After winning a bid, you must pay a deposit immediately, with the remaining balance due within a specified period, usually a few days. The exact timeframe will be provided in the auction terms and conditions.

Does the Consumer Guarantees Act apply to cars bought at Turners?

Yes, the Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA) may apply (assuming the vendor is "in trade"), ensuring that cars are of acceptable quality and that you're not misled about the nature of the vehicle. Turners will work to resolve issues within a reasonable time if something goes wrong. Turners explains the CGA in their detailed guide.

How do I know how much to pay?

Research is crucial. Turners website offers estimated auction prices and BuyNow prices. Attending auctions (in person or online via Turners Live) can provide insight into car values. Alternatively, looking at other independent car valuation sites or through similar model cars and kilometres on platforms like Trade Me can give you an idea of the rough valuation (and what you should be paying).

Does a car bought at Turners come with a warranty?

Cars sold by auction do not come with a mechanical warranty. 
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