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Some people prefer buying a used car as they hate the fact that a new car immediately loses value as soon as it is driven off the forecourt. Others will be limited to buying a used car budget constraints. Whatever your reasons, use these tips on buying a used car to make those pounds go further.
1) Know in advance the type of car you want i.e. the make, model, fuel type and engine size. You are less likely to be swayed by the salesman’s sales pitch. You will also be able to tell if the car being sold is not the exact model the dealer says it is.
2) Shop around for the best deal. You can find used cars in various locations such as your local dealer, the internet, the for sale ads in your local paper and in specialist car magazines such as Autotrader. Do some research and find out the ballpark cost of the car you want.
3) Ask to see the full service history. If a car has been regularly serviced in accordance with the manufactures recommendations it is less likely to have hidden faults. It will also be easier to sell on if you plan on replacing the car within a short time period. Depending on the age of the car, the service history can also affect the warranty although this is not an issue in older cars. Check the history of cars aged over 3 years at www.motonline.gov.uk
4) It sounds obvious but don’t consider buying a used car if you have never seen it. Have a good look at the car both inside and under the bonnet. Take it for a test drive to see how she handles. What you should look at include:
- The state of the tyres –are they legal?
- The state of the interior and exterior
- Do all the doors open and close properly
- Do the windows, wipers, seat belts and seat adjusters work
- Do any lights flash up on the dash and remain on when you switch on the ignition?
- Do the VIN numbers match i.e. the paperwork matches the number on the car (usually found under the flooring or just inside the windscreen).
5) If you are buying a used car from a dealer or used car salesman ask what extras they will throw in if you close the deal today. Some will include a full service including in some cases the replacement of the timing belt. Others may pay the annual road tax and throw in a full tank of petrol.
6) Be careful who you buy from. In the UK you have far more consumer protection if you buy from any dealer as opposed to a private sale or at auction. It is best to leave the auctions to the experts unless your best friend is a car mechanic. Private sales can work out well but take your mechanic with you if possible.
7) Always get a receipt for your payment. Make sure it includes the make, model, registration number of the vehicle and the amount paid. Get the vendor to sign and date it.
8) Ask your friends or colleagues for recommendations. They may know of a local garage that always has good, reliable used cars for sale at the right price.
But the phrase to remember when buying a used car is ‘caveat emptor’ which means ‘buyer beware’. Always do your research thoroughly before parting with your hard earned cash.