Nine in ten Australians say a professional check is essential before buying a used car*, and for good reason. Going second-hand shouldn’t mean rolling the dice. Securing a great deal and avoiding a lemon shouldn’t be the exception - it should be the standard. That’s why every Carma Car goes through a next-level inspection and reconditioning process by an expert team, so you can shop with confidence, not crossed fingers.

It’s this commitment to quality that led to Carma’s partnership with the NRMA, one of Australia’s most trusted names in motoring. As their exclusive preferred used car dealership, Carma is proud to support Australians with even more confidence behind the wheel.

We know a lemon when we see one

Aussies have grown up knowing that when it comes to used cars, it pays to be cautious. We’ve all heard the horror stories: dodgy logbooks, hidden damage, worn-out brakes, or that mysterious warning light that just won’t go away. In 2023, more than 2 million used cars were sold in Australia, and with 61.1% of those sales happening through private sellers, it’s no wonder buyers are wary.

Carma was founded to bring genuine transparency to an industry long plagued by mistrust and uncertainty. Forget crossing your fingers and toes in a dealership parking lot - Carma handpicks only the highest quality used cars in Australia, with around 90% of vehicles reviewed not making the cut. Every car that does make it through undergoes a rigorous inspection, reconditioning and quality assurance process - because no one wants to end up with a lemon.

We’re smarter shoppers than we used to be

These days, Aussies are doing their homework before buying a car - and who can blame us? The risk of being taken for a ride by a dodgy dealer is very real for a large portion of the population who can’t claim to be ‘car savvy’. Thankfully, we’ve got more tools at our fingertips than ever before, from detailed online listings and comparison sites to PPSR checks and vehicle history reports. As buyers, we’re asking more questions, expecting more transparency, and refusing to settle for slick sales talk. That’s exactly why Carma lists every car in their virtual showroom with interactive 360-degree views and detailed photos. Customers can explore each vehicle from every angle, open the doors, check out the interior, and easily view any remaining imperfections, all clearly marked with close-up images and a ruler for scale. Carma is proud to meet the new standard buyers expect and it’s their detailed inspection and reconditioning process that’s helped name them the preferred used car dealership of the NRMA.

Once burned, twice shy

We all know someone who’s been stung (maybe even yourself) by a car that failed to stand the test of time. Your mate’s “bargain” ute that needed a new gearbox six weeks after purchase is a classic example. These stories are all too familiar, and they’ve shaped a new generation of buyers who won’t part with their hard-earned cash without a second opinion. But let’s be honest, not all second opinions are created equal, and while your dubiously qualified “weekend mechanic” friend may mean well, a professional check is what really counts.

That’s why every Carma Car undergoes a 90-minute inspection by over 10 experts, ensuring meticulous quality control across their entire range. Plus, it’s all backed by a 7-day money-back guarantee, so you’ve got time to make sure the car’s the right fit for you. Better yet, if you’re a My NRMA Rewards member, that window extends to 12 days, giving you even more time to get a feel for your new wheels.

It’s about trust (not just the car)

These days, buying a used car isn’t just about the vehicle, it’s about trusting who you’re buying it from. Trust is earned, not assumed, and Carma’s big on proving it. Hence why every car sold is thoroughly inspected and reconditioned, because no one wants a costly surprise down the road.

Aussies aren’t paranoid about quality, we’re just switched on. These days, smart buying means asking questions, expecting transparency, and wanting real guarantees. That’s exactly what Carma delivers, and their partnership with the NRMA is proof. Together, they’re setting a new standard for used car dealerships across Australia, and giving you even more reason to trust what’s in your driveway.