With the considerable expense of purchasing a new car, more and more of us are increasingly turning to the proposition of buying used vehicles. Despite the cost-saving of used cars, there are, potentially a number of pitfalls that should be avoided to ensure that you get, not only value for money, but a reliable vehicle too.
Here is a list of the top tips that all to be wary of, and what to consider when choosing a used car. From the condition of the engine to the efficiency of the vehicle, anyone with designs on purchasing a used vehicle, no matter the vehicle should always bear in mind the following factors.
The Budget
Keep to a budget of the car that you can afford. This budget should include any registration, maintenance and the running costs. Factors such as the insurance and loan rates should always be compared. It’s important to obtain a few quotes.
Thorough Research is Paramount
It’s advised that all consumers should conduct as much research as possible. This includes checking the current marketplace for comparable prices on vehicles across different retailers, both commercial and private. Venturing online is a good place to start, as is contacting garages to compare prices and vehicle specifications.
Always Ask Questions
One of the most frequent mistakes consumers make is their inability to gather all necessary information about the vehicle that they are considering purchasing. Always make sure that you have a clear understanding of the history of the vehicle. This is paramount. If you’ve any doubts whatsoever, make sure that these are resolved, prior to making a large vehicle purchase.
Get the Vehicle’s History
Whether you’re purchasing the vehicle from a commercial or independent seller, make sure to get the logbook, outlining the entire history of the vehicle. This will outline how often the vehicle has been serviced and should clarify that it hasn’t ever been stolen, or has an outstanding loan against it.
Test Drive
Why would you purchase a car without knowing how it runs? For this reason, it’s absolutely imperative to have a test drive. When out on the road always check the ride. The smoothness of the steering wheel and the slickness of gear changes are just two of the primary factors to check.
Inspect the Car
It may sound routine but, always conduct a thorough check of the car. This is best done with the aid of, or by, a mechanic. A fully-trained and experienced mechanic will be able to tell you whether there are spots of rust, welding marks, oil leaks and the condition of the tyres, seatbelts, and steering wheels amongst other aspects of the vehicle.
These are just a few tips that anyone buying a vehicle should consider. Being shrewd and comprehensive about your purchase will lessen the opportunity for any underlying issues to arise in the days and weeks after you’ve made your purchase.
