Advice

Auto Trader Insights: The leading NZ car blog for reviews, news, and expert buying and selling advice
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7 November 2025

How to Check and Top Up Your Car’s Engine Oil

Checking your car’s engine oil is one of the easiest ways to keep your vehicle running smoothly – and it only takes a few minutes.Whether you’re getting ready for a road trip or just doing a quick weekend check, here’s how to check your engine oil level and top it up correctly. 1. Why Engine Oil Matters Engine oil keeps
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3 October 2025
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What Are The Differences Between Window Tints? 🪟

What is the legal window tint limit in NZ? Thinking about tinting your car windows? Before you go darker, it’s worth knowing what’s actually legal in New Zealand....
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23 September 2025
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How to Check Your Tow Bar Capacity

Planning to tow a trailer, caravan, horse float, or boat? One of the first things you need to know is your tow bar capacity. It’s not just about...
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25 July 2025
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❄️ The Smartest Ways to De-Ice Your Windscreen Quickly

A frosty windscreen can really throw off your morning. But with a little prep and a few simple tricks, you can clear it up quickly and safely. No...
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11 July 2025
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How to Change Your Car’s Windshield Wipers

Windshield wipers are essential for clear vision in rain, snow, and dusty conditions, but they don’t last forever. Over time, the rubber blades wear out and start streaking...
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6 June 2025
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🚗 What Do Different Car Styles Mean?

When shopping for a new vehicle, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sea of terminology: sedan, coupe, SUV, hatchback, crossover, and more. But each car style isn’t...
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2 June 2025
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Car Loan or Mortgage Top-Up? What You Need to Know

When it comes to managing debt, many New Zealanders look for ways to simplify their finances and reduce their monthly outgoings. One strategy that often comes up is...
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28 May 2025
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How to Buy a Second-Hand Car Privately

Buying a car privately can be a great way to save money compared to purchasing from a dealership. However, it also comes with risks if you don’t know...
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16 May 2025
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How To Sell Your Car For The Most Money

Looking to sell your car? How you list it online can make or break the sale, and directly affect how much you walk away with. When using Autotrader,...
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11 April 2025
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Prepare Your Car for Winter in New Zealand

Winter’s on the way, and while it’s relatively mild across most of New Zealand, it still throws a few curveballs. From icy windscreens to soggy roads, your car...
13 March 2026
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5 Pro Tips for Spotting Car Listing Scammers 🚨

Selling a car online is convenient and effective, but unfortunately it can also attract scammers. Fraudsters often target vehicle listings on online marketplaces, using convincing stories and unusual payment methods to try and trick sellers. The good news is that many scams follow the same patterns. Knowing what to look for can help you avoid them and keep your sale
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5 March 2026
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11 Car Facts Most Drivers Don’t Know 🚗

Most of us drive every day, yet there are small details about our cars that often go unnoticed. Some of these features are clever design touches, while others can actually save you money or help prevent unnecessary wear and tear. Here are some practical car facts many drivers don’t realise. 1. The Fuel Gauge Arrow Has a Purpose Next time
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26 February 2026
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Motorhomes 101: What to Know Before Buying Your First 🚐

Thinking about buying your first motorhome? Whether it’s weekend escapes, extended road trips, or even full-time travel, owning a motorhome opens up a completely different way to explore New Zealand. But before you commit, there are a few important things to understand. Here’s what first-time buyers should know. 1. License Requirements Most motorhomes in New Zealand can be driven on
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12 February 2026
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How to Change Your Car’s Air Filter (It’s Easier Than You Think!) 🌬️

Your car’s air filter plays a big role in how well your engine performs. It keeps dust, pollen, dirt, and debris out of the engine – helping it run smoothly, use less fuel, and last longer. The good news? Changing your air filter is one of the easiest DIY car maintenance tasks, and most people can do it in under
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