A Guide To Buying A Used Car
When it comes to searching the used car market, we all know there’s a vast array of information to dig up. Making sure we know exactly what we’re after, ensuring all our finances are in order before making the next big purchase and understanding our rights as a buyer.
As long as your research is up to scratch, you should avoid all the possible dangers which occur down the line.
Here at Cartime, we like to provide confidence with all our new and current customers that they’re happy to buy from a reputable dealer and not fall deep into the pitfalls of others.
When buying a used car, there’s always crucial hurdles to jump over rather than a brand-new car but there is every belief that this must be done in the best way possible. Below is a guide we’ve pieced together to assist you with buying your next car...
1. No matter the car, big or small, it’s always an investment opportunity. Many would say it’s the second biggest purchase we make after a mortgage. The first thing you should do is understand your market limit and keep to it. When buying on finance, work out the amount you would be willing to place as a cash deposit (of any) and work out the financial repayments. Doing this will enable you to not be startled when the salesman asks about your monthly budget. Remember, it’s always best to be ahead of the game.
2. At three years old, a car should be around half the price it was new, depending on the model and the mileage, but should still have plenty of life left in it. It’s a generalisation but data from warranty providers also suggests that car reliability tends to tail-off after 5 years so that’s a sensible point at which to move your used car on and look for a replacement.
3. Keeping on top of the used market is always a necessity. It allows you to keep up with the constant fluctuation with retail values, and with an array of companies, you have the ability to compare. There will always be a wide choice of cars on the market, meaning you won’t feel an urge to dive into your next car straight away, especially if you decide something isn’t just right for you.
4. Always check the paperwork before deciding on a final purchase agreement. If you’re buying from a private individual rather than a dealer, make sure to check that they’re selling the vehicle from the matching address located within the V5C logbook, then check the matching VIN numbers between the document and the car itself.
5. Once you’ve found your next car and have arranged for a in person viewing, always check over the vehicle. Most used cars will most definitely have odd scuff marks, but these are age related.
6. Request for a thorough test drive. Most test drives take us down small routes, giving us a feeling for the car. Things to consider would be whether the car turns over easily? Does the steering wheel pull to one side? Are the brakes faded? Always consider having the right insurance in place before heading out to your test drive.
7. Are all the importances with the vehicle? Make sure there is a locking wheel nut key, you never know when you might require this. Always check the rear boot floor for a spare wheel and/or repair kit. It’s always in the buying rights to ask the seller whether there’s a spare key included. Nowadays, most modern cars with satellite navigation require an SD Card or Nav Disc, so check whether this is included before you buy.
8. When finalising your deal, always make sure both parties have all the terms agreed in writing, with a breakdown of your agreement and that both parties can keep a copy. This should show the vehicles details, date of purchase, both the seller and purchasers addresses, price of the vehicle and terms of sale.
Below are some of the benefits when buying a used car through Cartime.
· Feel Good Finance Offers with some of the lowest monthly payments not he market
· Part exchanges and settling any outstanding finances on your current car
· Six-year warranties available on all cars
· We are committed to AA car standards
· Refer a friend – Rewards for you and a friend with every successful referral with us
· Well established dealer for over 11 years
To find your next vehicle, please use the link below.
