Buying a used car can feel a little like stepping into a minefield. You’ve no doubt heard horror stories about people handing over their hard-earned money for second-hand vehicles only to find that the engine seizes up as soon as they turn the key in the ignition or the exhaust falls off halfway down the street. It’s true that if you don’t know what you’re doing, purchasing used cars can be a very risky business. However, as long as you’re savvy when you’re searching for your next motor, you should be able to find one that meets your needs. Here are some of the most important things to look out for when you’re perusing your options.
Manageable running costs
The asking price of cars is bound to have a big impact on the model you go for. However, as well as vehicles’ initial price tags, you’ll need to consider how much it’d cost you to keep them on the roads. Even if you manage to bag a bargain from a private seller or dealer, you could end up shelling out a small fortune in the long run if the vehicle’s expensive to run. Look into fuel efficiency and vehicle tax bands before you commit to buying a particular car. Then there’s insurance to consider. Although it’s possible to search the market for competitive quotes using specialist broker services like Chill, you might struggle to cover the cost of these policies if your car falls into a pricey insurance group.
As a general rule, if you’re looking for a runaround that will be inexpensive to use, choose one with a small, efficient engine. Steer clear of vehicles with modifications too, as this can drive insurance premiums up.
Reliable
No matter how shiny their chassis, it’s impossible to tell how reliable cars are simply by looking at them. If you want to avoid making a potentially costly mistake, it’s important to do some thorough checks on the cars you’re interested in. Always view vehicles in daylight and make sure you examine them from all angles, looking out for problems like inconsistent paintwork and worn or damaged tyres.
Under the bonnet, watch out for any leaks of water, oil or other fluids. Check that the oil level is at or around the maximum level too, and make sure its free from debris. Pay attention to the battery terminals and connectors as well. They should show no signs of rust and be in good condition.
Ask the owner about the service history too, and check the registration documents. If the car is more than three years old, make sure it has a continuous series of MOT certifications as well, and take a look at the stated mileage to see if it tallies with the reading on the car’s odometer.
Nice to drive
If you like what you see, arrange to take a test drive. Until you’ve actually got behind the wheel and gone for a spin, you won’t know if a car’s right for you. If you’ll be using the car to ferry your family around, why not get them in the passenger seats so they can give you their feedback?
The last step
Before you actually hand over any money for a car, ensure you’re getting a good deal by checking guide prices and comparing similar vehicles online. Also, confirm exactly what’s included in the price and make sure you’re totally happy with the collection or delivery details.
As long as you follow top tips like these, you should be able to find the right runaround for you.
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