THE AUTOA2Z GUIDE TO SAFE BUYING

Thinking Of Buying A Used Car? Now is a good time to do it especially through autoa2z

Today’s new cars have been revolutionised over the past decade by hi-tech design and manufacturing processes. This is good news, not just for new car buyers, but it is great for those interested in buying used cars.

The Used Car Market

In the trade, used cars are usually priced ‘nearly new’ or ‘used’. Nearly new cars are those up to one year old, while used cars fall into two categories - one to three years old, and over three years old. Nearly new cars often have very low mileages and have thousands of pounds off the new list price, so are often outstanding value.

Before buying a used car

Before buying any car, and especially a used car, it is important to check its condition thoroughly and test it out on the road. If the car is more than three years old, check it has a current MOT certificate stating the vehicle complies with certain criteria at a given date. If you are a member of one of the motoring organisations such as the AA or RAC, they offer a vehicle inspection service whereby an engineer will check over the car that you wish to purchase. This will provide further peace of mind.

A full service history is also very important to ensure the vehicle has been properly looked after, and check the mileage is warranted in writing to avoid any potential problems in the future.

Paying for the car

Before entering into any finance agreement, accepting any warranty or indeed accepting a used car, make sure you read and understand all the documentation before signing them or handing over any cash. If a dealer has arranged the finance agreement whereby you purchase the used vehicle and he refuses to deal with a subsequent complaint, your claim for compensation will be against the finance company, which in turn will claim from the dealer. However, do not stop your repayments.

Any problems

Taking delivery of a ‘new’ car, even if it is pre-owned, is great fun and the best way to start the year. Don’t plan your next journey until you have visited your local garage or main dealer to get the car checked over.

Finally, the DVLA strongly recommends that anyone considering purchasing a used car privately should take following practical steps to limit the chances of being sold a stolen vehicle:

• Always have sight of the registration document V5 prior to purchasing a used vehicle.
• Be satisfied that the seller owns the vehicle or is entitled to offer it for sale.
• Ask the seller for proof of identity.
• View the vehicle at the address shown on the registration document.
• If you have limited knowledge of vehicles take an experienced person with you.
• Be wary of handing over cash to someone who has been contacted through a mobile number.
• Be careful and don’t meet a seller in somewhere out of the way in the dark, especially if you’re paying cash.
• Make sure that you are able to view the car you wish to purchase in broad daylight so that you can inspect its paint finish for flaws and obvious signs of body damage on panels.