Buying a used car - general advice

Buying a used car can be risky, however, follow these general tips and you won't go far wrong. 

 

Do your homework:

Check the price carefully and compare similar cars in classifieds ads so you know as much as you can about the value of different cars to avoid being overcharged.

Research the seller if possible. If you're buying from a dealer, make sure they are registered traders.

Handle with care:

Always be wary of anything that seems 'too good to be true' or has a very low mileage for its age.

 

Ask about the car's service history:

Check all documentation provided, including current and previous MOT certificates.

 

Never view a car in the rain, in poor light or at night.

Water can obscure scratches, dents and other problems., while you won't be able to examine the condition of the car effectively in the dark. Make sure you can see the vehicle clearly and from all angles.

 

Insist on seeing the V5 vehicle registration document:

Check the name of the present keeper is the seller the registered keeper? if not, why are they selling it for someone else?

 

Check the seller has a current MOT certificate and certificate of insurance:

If the car is three years old or more, make sure there's a continuous series of annual MOT certificates. See if the mileage on these certificates agrees with the service records.

 

Check the service record:

Ensure that the cam belt has been replaced according to the manufacturer's recommended intervals.

 

Test-drive the car before committing yourself:

It's the only way to assess whether the car meets all your needs. You will find out about its mechanical condition too.

 

Be vigilant:

Look for mismatched panels and colours on doors, bonnet and tailgate. These can indicate that the car has been repaired after a shunt.

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Don't be pressured into buying.

There are always other vehicles out there

If it's too good to be true, then be on your guard – bargains are few and far between. If a seller is selling cheap, ask yourself (and them) why?

 

Don't hand over money until you've agreed collection or delivery:

Check exactly what's included in the price include any work that the seller has agreed to do. Also, Make sure you get a receipt that details the vehicle, price, terms of sale and sellers details.