Buying Used Cars
When
looking to buy a second hand car you should be extra careful and
vigilant as purchasing a car from a private sale does not usually come
with the reassurance of a warranty.
Used cars have one major
advantage over buying a brand new vehicle and that is the price. Used
cars, even if only a year or two old are substantially cheaper than new
cars. From the moment a vehicle is driven off a dealer's forecourt the
depreciation begins and in the early days the price drop is
disproportionate to the vehicles actual wear and tear.
If you are
not mechanically minded yourself it is probably a good idea to take
someone, preferably a mechanic with you or better still instruct a
specialist engineer to examine the vehicle on your behalf. Although
this will increase your budget it will not only give you peace of mind
but will undoubtedly be money well spent if a serious problem is
discovered.
Take your time and do not rush into a purchase just
because you think you will lose the sale. Remember there are thousands
of used cars out there to choose from.
Decide on your budget and
stick to it! Make sure you have included tax, insurance and any
accessories you might need on top of the actual cost of the car in your
budget. Make sure you are buying the right car for your needs. If it's
a family vehicle you are looking for to ferry the kids around, do not
get carried away looking at two seated roadsters. It's easily done!
Make
sure you research thoroughly and buy several magazines and guides from
your local newsagent. This will help you have a better understanding of
prices and market trends, as you will find thousands of used cars
listed.
When viewing any used cars make sure you do it in the
daytime preferably at the seller's home address. Daytime viewings will
ensure that any defects to the bodywork are easily noticed and viewing
the vehicle at the seller's home address will give you an idea of how
the vehicle has been maintained. If the vendor wants to carry out the
transaction elsewhere demand that it is a public place. This is for
your own safety, as you do not know who you will be dealing with.
It
is quite normal for used cars to have had several prior owners so do
not be put of by this, but do check the cars log book and service
history carefully making sure the documents are in order and all the
dates and records check out.
Carry out a H P I check to verify
the cars history. You will be able to determine if the vehicle has any
outstanding finance or if it has been stolen. Also this check will
determine if the vehicle has been subject to an insurance write off or
if the mileage has been altered.
Ask the vendor as many questions
as possible about the cars history, especially the reason for sale.
That said; do not take any reply as an absolute truth!
Take as long as you want with your inspection
Checking the Interior
Ensure
all the electrics, including mirrors; windows and central locking are
in good working order. Test the seat belts click into their sockets and
retract properly. Check the wear on the foot pedals, as this will give
you an indication if the vehicle has covered an excessive amount of
miles. Lift any seat blankets, which may be hiding burns and stains. Do
not be afraid to check under floor mats and upholstery for rot and
corrosion. Feel around for any damp or water residue and when inside
have a good sniff for any mould or pet smells, as this is a sure sign
there may be stains or damp lurking somewhere.
Exterior inspection
Look
down the sides of the vehicle as some used cars would have suffered the
odd bump or two in their time. Check to see if the panels are in line
and free from any filer. Make sure there are no irregular gaps between
the doors, bonnet and boot. Check the colour match on each panel for
signs of a respray. Feel under the wheel arches and seals for signs of
rust.
Most used cars will need some money spent on them and
normally this will be tires and exhausts. The minimum tyre tread is
1.6mm so check all the tyres have at least this depth and factor
replacement costs into your budget if they are near the mark. Inspect
the exhaust, and check that it is not noisy or blowing.
The Engine
Check
the engine oil and ensure that it is brown and transparent. Make sure
the paintwork in the engine bay matches that of the cars exterior.
Check for leaks on hoses and pipes before and after the test drive.
When the engine is started it should idle smoothly. Listen carefully for any irregular rattles or grinding sounds.
The Test Drive
Do not be afraid to ask for a test drive, preferably with you driving the vehicle.
If
possible drive the vehicle on a variety of road surfaces so you can
feel the cars handling. Check the suspension is solid and the vehicle
holds a true line. Listen for any grinding when the steering wheel is
at full lock. Once the vehicle is moving listen for any irregular
engine noises.
Closing the Deal
Once you
are satisfied the vehicle is for you and it has passed the above checks
do not be afraid to haggle over the price. Most sellers of used cars
are prepared to negotiate over the original asking price. Where
possible try to get the seller to include any extras or accessories.
An important point to remember is not to feel pressured into buying a car no matter how good the sales patter is.
If you have any doubts about the purchase then DO NOT BUY as there are many other used cars out there to choose from.
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