There was a time when buying a car was considered a ‘man’s job,’ but (thankfully) those days are long gone. Today, more and more South African women are taking the driver’s seat in every sense of the word, from earning their own income to choosing the car that best fits their lifestyle and priorities. 

Are you looking to buy your first car or is it time to upgrade your wheels to accommodate your growing family? Or maybe you are finally in the position to get that dream ride? Whichever route you are on, we can all agree that making this purchase solo is a bold, empowering move. And actually, you aren’t as alone as you think.  

We have created a practical guide to help you make smart, confident decisions as a woman buying a car on her own terms. Let’s take a closer look at why this trend is growing – and how you can make the best choice for you.  

It’s Not Just About Independence – It’s About Confidence 

Women aren’t just buying cars, they’re doing the research, comparing finance offers, understanding fuel economy, and asking the right questions. This shift is not simply just about financial independence. It is centre around having the confidence in your own ability to make major purchases without the need for a second opinion or approval. There is no harm in securing advice, however that is by and large becoming a choice for women in South Africa and not a default step due to a lack of confidence. 

Car dealerships are starting to notice, with many investing in necessary training for their staff to equip them to speak respectfully and informatively with all buyers – no assumptions, no jargon. 

Pro Tip: Before you walk into a dealership, use the AA Inform Vehicle Finance Calculator to see what you can afford. It will help you set boundaries before you set your sights on a vehicle that doesn’t serve your needs. 

Women Think Beyond The Price Tag 

It is a truth universally acknowledge that… price matters, but it’s not the only factor. You don’t want to pay less if it means sacrificing safety, fuel economy, maintenance costs, reliability, and even resale value. These are often higher priorities for women in the market for a new or pre-owned vehicle.  

This preference among female buyers is seen in the growing number of women opting for more cost-efficient, long-term vehicle choices when compared with their male counterparts. 

Let’s be clear, everyone is entitled to want a certain aesthetic when it comes to their car choice. The key is to balance this desire with what it will cost to service the car, how long the tyres last, and how it performs in the rain. This is not being “fussy,” it’s being decisive and being smart. 

Women Buying Cars Solo Doesn’t Mean Unsupported 

Just because you are buying alone does not mean that you are on your own. If you prefer, you absolutely should take a trusted friend, parent, or sibling along for a second set of eyes. This can be especially helpful when it comes to inspecting a used vehicle.  

That said, if you prefer to do it alone then bring a checklist and trust yourself to tick the boxes. Don’t forget that AA Inform has a variety of car-buying checklists and explainers to walk you through every step, should you need a guide for test drives or paperwork. 

More Finance Options = More Freedom 

Financing a car has traditionally been a space where women have felt talked over or misunderstood, but that’s changing. Online pre-approval tools and transparent interest calculators are helping women compare finance offers and avoid being upsold into debt they do not need. 

Explore the AA Inform Guide to Car Finance to understand deposits, repayment terms, balloon payments, and your rights as a buyer. 

Feeling Informed? 

Whether it’s a nippy hatchback, a practical SUV, or a low-mileage demo model, the right car is the one that fits your budget, your lifestyle, and your peace of mind. You don’t need anyone else to “co-sign” your confidence. You’ve got this. 

If things feel challenging, remember, the road to independence isn’t always smooth – but it is worth it. If you’re thinking about buying your next car solo, AA Inform is here to help you make smart, informed choices that go the distance. 

Take a few minutes to browse our car-buying tools, checklists, and resources – made with real South African women in mind.