If you are reading this and you know all about torque, 0-60
times and generally into cars then you may have the wrong article…but by all
means stay! If, however, you are one of the millions of people that use cars to
get around but do not find them in any way interesting or exciting, read on!
Used Cars
While many people are choosing to lease cars these days or
buy on finance there are still a lot of people who simply choose to buy a used
car. There are lots
of good points about doing this. Firstly, it is essentially recycling,
rather than using all those materials to make a new car we can get along just
fine with a car a few years old. The other side is the obvious financial
benefit of the fact used cars are generally cheaper and you can often get
something you wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford if it were new. However,
buying a used car is not without its risks and it can be a real minefield even
for those who are into cars. But there are some things you can do to make it
easier and less risky so here are a few simple tips to help!
Choosing a Car
This can often be the hardest part, where do you start? The
problem with not being a “car person” is that you may not be aware of all the
makes and models out there or what’s well known for being good or bad. So, the
best starting point is to look around you, look on your street, speak to
friends and family and get a feel for what you may want. The next step is to
make a list of things you think you need. For example, how big do you want it?
Do you want a big boot? Do you want a 5-door car or are you ok with folding
front seats? Do you want something for big trips or small shop and school runs
or to work and back? Once you get a solid list of requirements you will be able
to start narrowing things down a bit.
Price Range
It is really important at this stage to get an idea of what
you can afford. It’s less about budget and more about what you can get for your
budget. A lot of people fall into a trap of seeing a really exciting car in
their budget and fail to check if there are other similar cars for the same
money. The issue there is the car they like may be a real lemon and the only
one at that price, so check other models of the same type for an average price.
Once you have a price range, and a
budget you can start to refine your list along with your requirements. Sites
like Autotrader allow you to filter
quite a few options. It is often best to start with no make and model and just
search by engine type, size, car shape and price.
Engines, Gearboxes and Fuel
OK…this bit can get a bit petrol heady, but it is important.
Firstly, automatic vs manual; if you have driven both then that’s great, you
know what you like. If you have not and you are not sure about an automatic,
then read up on it a bit. Autos can be brilliant, but they can be costly if
they go wrong, odd to drive and quite economical. Diesel of petrol? This is a
huge debate, but the short answer is diesel is more economical but produces
worse gases and particles. Petrol is a little worse in terms of CO2 but it less
harmful to people and animals. Ultimately diesel is on the way out and there
could be charges and taxes just around the corner. Diesel engines also need a
turbo to produce enough power so that can be an extra complication in older
cars. For most people, diesel can be a bargain but if you plan on keeping it
for a while petrol is a safer bet.
Buying a Legit Car
There are a lot of risks in buying anything used. Cars are
no different, some car might have been written off and sold without you knowing
that, some might be sold with finance outstanding so you would owe the money,
so might even be stolen or not have a valid MOT. So, its best to use a car checking service. Some of these are
free, others cost a bit but show you service history, previous MOTs and so much
more. Its worth paying for one once you find a car or a few cars you like.
The Deal
This is often the worst bit, most normal people hate
haggling, they don’t want to be sold too and the idea of standing around trying
to make a choice about a car can be really daunting. However, if you do your
homework before it removes so much of the pressure. Chat with the owner, make
it clear you know what you want and do not be afraid to walk away. If you want
to suggest a lower price do, but you don’t have too if the price is good for
you. Be aware a lot of used car ads are actually car dealers, they may look
like a person selling a single car until you arrive and they have 10 on the
driveway. A lot of people ask first and make a choice whether or not to go and
see the car. Dealers can be a little pushy and they are trying to make a profit
unlike a truly domestic sale. Don’t be put off but be aware and take a friend!
It is always nice to have someone with you to help spot things, to give you a
nod and say its lovely or just for company and to help drive it home.
Used cars are great, but there are millions of them and
buying the wrong one is a pain. Plan ahead, research lots, don’t be afraid to
travel even a 100 miles+ for the right car and get he car checked before you
agree to buy…good luck!
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