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When buying a vehicle online, verifying whether extras like roadside assistance or a courtesy car are genuinely included requires a bit of diligence, as online listings can sometimes be broad or use promotional wording.

To ensure you are fully covered and don't encounter unexpected out-of-pocket costs down the line, use the following steps to verify these inclusions:

1. Check the Fine Print and Terms & Conditions

• Look for asterisks and conditional phrasing: Phrases like "Roadside assistance included" often have fine print. Check if it is only included for a limited period (e.g., the first 12 months) or restricted to specific tiers (e.g., only on brand-new vehicles, certified pre-owned, or specific trim levels).
• Define the courtesy car triggers: A courtesy car is rarely given unconditionally. Read the terms to see when it applies. For instance, does it apply only during routine servicing, or does it require a major mechanical breakdown happening a certain distance (e.g., over 100 km) from your home? Are fuel and insurance excess waivers your responsibility?

2. Request a Written Confirmation or Invoice Breakdown

• Get it in writing: Never rely solely on a banner on a website, a pop-up ad, or a salesperson's verbal/chat message. Ask the online dealer or customer service representative to email you written confirmation or an itemized quote/invoice.
• Specify the exact service provider: If roadside help is included, find out which provider backs it (e.g., AA, First Rescue, NZRA). Knowing the provider lets you check what standard benefits they actually offer.

3. Review the Vehicle Status (New vs. Used vs. Imported)

• New Vehicles: Brand-new cars sold through official networks almost always bundle manufacturer-backed roadside assistance and sometimes courtesy options for the duration of the warranty period.
• Used or Imported Vehicles: If you are buying a used or Japanese import car online from a dealer, roadside assistance and courtesy cars are not automatically guaranteed. Dealers sometimes bundle a third-party roadside package as a promotional incentive, but you must confirm whether it is active on delivery or if you have to register it yourself.

4. Cross-Check Consumer Protection Standards

• Keep in mind that under New Zealand consumer laws (such as the Consumer Guarantees Act when buying from a registered trader), businesses must guarantee that vehicles are of acceptable quality and fit for purpose. However, dealers are not legally forced to provide a courtesy car during repairs unless it was explicitly part of the sales contract or a specific dealership promotion. Therefore, if it is not explicitly written into your purchase agreement, you cannot legally demand it later.

5. Inspect Alternative Coverages You May Already Have

If the online seller doesn't include these perks, or if the fine print makes them hard to claim, check your other existing policies:

• Car Insurance: Many comprehensive car insurance policies in New Zealand either include roadside assistance automatically or offer it as a low-cost add-on.
• Membership/Banking Perks: Membership organizations (like the AA) or certain credit cards and bank accounts bundle roadside rescue as part of their package.