Hints and tips on buying a used car

Nov 4, 2011 by blackbook

In the next few months I will be looking to buy a car, now I haven’t yet decided whether to get a brand new car or a used car, however after doing a little research I thought I would share with you some tips on buying a used car.

There are a number of different outlets where you can find used cars for sale, for example you have car dealerships, local garages and online private sales. You need to be aware though that in the UK you have more rights and safeguards with your purchase when buying through a second hand car dealer than you do purchasing through a private sale.

There are a number of important checks to do first before you hand over any money, such as:

Check the engine plate on the car corresponds with the registration documents and that neither has been tampered with. Plus that all documentation details are up to date.

Make sure you properly test drive the car with motorway driving, slow urban driving, twisting roads and use all gears including reverse.

When checking body work, do so in good light and take a torch with you so you can see all hard to see places.

Cars over five years old can suffer from corrosion or rust and it can be the most damaging thing, so have a look to see how much there is.

You also need to check the structural body work as well in second hand cars, keep a watch out for rust perforation on inner wings, the bulkhead and any cross members and chassis members visible under the bonnet.

Other important aspects to check include: the floor pan for corrosion, brake pipes can be dangerous if they are crusted or pitted with rust and corrosion on the suspension and steering mounting points.

To see if the mileage has been altered check the numbers are not out of line on the odometer if they are it has been tampered with. Also make sure the millage corresponds with the condition and description of the car.

Make sure the engine is in a good state, if the engine and surrounding area is dirty it would suggest the car hasn’t been looked after.

Normally when buying from a dealer such as Carcraft or your local garage the car should be in a good condition however full checks are still needed if you want to be satisfied that you have made the right purchase.

Picture courtesy of Kabanski