Buying a Used Car
Depending on where you go to buy a car, you can expect a different level of service and probably a different type of vehicle on offer. Consider what you’re after and where you are more likely to find it. Generally speaking, you will be charged more at a Dealer, however the level of service and warranty is much greater than going for a bargain from a Private Seller.
HOW TO BUY A USED CAR
Get an idea of pricing by visiting a Local Used Car Dealer first
After you’ve checked what sort of price you can afford you should start checking the windscreen prices at your local dealers, at first glance they might seem more expensive but you’re inline for a better service – and there could be room for haggling on the price. Online auctions and Internet companies prove consistently popular, simply because they allow you to narrow down your search options considerably and quickly find the market price on a wide range of vehicles.
Buying from Private Sellers
The most popular way of buying a used car for most people is buying from a private seller. Once you have worked out exactly what type, make and model of car you are after, it’s worth looking on websites such as Auto Trader, eBay Motors and others to see what cars are out there, and of course the pricing.
So what should you be looking out for when buying a Used Car from a Private Seller?
TOP TIP: Always, always try and take a friend who knows something about cars, even having someone there is reassuring. Get them to examine the buyers body language when they are asked questions. Remember, if in doubt, walk out.
- CLOCKING: Is where a car has been artificially tampered with to give a lower mileage record
- STONE CHIPS: Make sure the car isn’t too badly chipped. Paint damage can lead to rusting
- WEAR: Wear on older cars is normal, but does the wear match the cars age and mileage?
- DOCUMENTS: Is everything present? V5 document, MOT and is the Tax valid? Check and if any are missing ask why
- CONTACTING PREVIOUS OWNERS: The V5 will have the address of the previous owner, consider calling them
- MAKE A BUDGET: Remember that many used cars now don’t come with tax, especially from local dealers… and get an insurance quote before you buy!
- RESEARCH WELL: Spend a few hours on the net doing your homework – look at what cars are selling for on eBay and see what features similar models come with
- LIGHT: Never view a car in the dark or poor light – this can mask nasty blemishes in paintwork
Above: Does the price look too good to be true? Consider why.
Top Tips
- When you call about the car start by asking “I’m calling about the car…” – if the person on the other end asks “which car” you know they are either a dealer or a trader
- If the seller has several numbers, or won’t give you a landline be suspicious
- Never let the seller bring the car to you. Ideally visit the car at their home, and make sure it is their home!
- If the seller is listed as a Private Seller, but looks like a Dealer, walk away. You won’t be covered but any guarantee
- Take a friend, and ladies never ever go alone
WHERE TO BUY A USED CAR
Great deals: Independent Dealers
Smaller independent retailers also have a large collection to chose from, but because they take cars in bulk from franchised dealers they are less likely to have certain colours or specifications.
Easy: Car Supermarkets
A great place to pick up an almost new model is an independent car supermarket, where they don’t tend to stock the more unusual cars, they often have great deals on ones in near pristine condition.
Car Auctions
If you can hold your nerve, then buying from an auction can get you a great deal. Cars are mixed, from the odd battered ringer, to the real bargain. Make sure you know what you are buying on before you bid.
Classified Adverts and Used Car Magazines
The obvious place to look are the likes of Auto Trader and the like. The massive amount of choice will be overwhelming, however you should be able to get a good idea of what the right market price is, and take it from there.
The Internet
An obvious place in this day and age. The amount of used cars websites out there is staggering, however it’s worth sticking with the better ones, as many feature old adverts. So the ones listed below should be a good starting point. You’ll be able to search by make, model, colour, engine type etc.
Car Brokers
If you fancy it, you can buy both brand new and used motors via a car broker. The broker acts as a middleman to source and supply your car.
Importing a Car
Importers are often something worth looking into, as they can generally lower the price of their cars – depending on the exchange rate – and you could get yourself a great deal on a model you would have to wait for in the UK, but the danger is purchasing something with specifications that are illegal in this country. Check the small details and you could save yourself some troubles in the future.
