Buying a Used Car?
Buying a car is a costly business, which is why it makes sense to check out the used car market where you can save thousands of pounds. Unfortunately it can also be fraught with problems if you don’t get it right. Here’s how to minimise the risks and give yourself the best chance of finding a bargain.
Research Once you’ve decided on the type of car you need (based on your particular priorities with regards to comfort, economy and space), research the costs to purchase, tax, insure, service and fuel it. Bear in mind that although older models are often cheaper to buy, they can be more costly to run and may work out more expensive in the long term.
Fact Find Have a list of questions to ask the seller before viewing the vehicle. Find out about previous owners; the mileage; the condition; how long the MOT and tax have to run; whether it has ever been written off, in an accident or stolen; if it has any finance outstanding; whether there is a log book, full service history, MOTs and receipts; and whether any maintenance needs doing.
Inspection Always view the vehicle at the seller’s address in daylight and in dry weather. Check the sills, wheel arches and door bottoms for rust. Make sure all lights and seat belts work. Check the condition of the tyres and mirrors. Look for mismatched or bubbling paint and uneven
gaps between body panels. Check that the mileage is about correct for the car’s age (average is 10,000 per year). If the odometer numbers are out of line the mileage may have been tampered with. Check that the car’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), found under the bonnet and on the windows, matches the number on the V5 certificate (log book).
Test Drive Drive the car for at least 15 minutes on different kinds of roads. Listen for unusual noises and look for excessive smoke from the exhaust. Make sure you’re happy with the brakes, gears, steering and suspension. If anything shakes, rattles or grates, the car may have problems that need sorting out.
Paperwork Once you have agreed a price, make sure that all paperwork looks and feels genuine (no photocopies). Check that the VIN and recorded keeper details tally with the seller, and examine the service history and MOT certificates to verify the mileage. Get a receipt for your payment from the seller, and finally – make sure the new keeper sections of the log book are completed.
Taking a knowledgeable friend along is always a good idea. Failing that, the AA and RAC both offer inspection services. You have to pay but for peace-of-mind it may be worth it.
Good luck - and happy motoring! To advertise in thewire t. 07720 429 613 e.
the.wire@btinternet.com Please mention thewire when responding to adverts 45
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