Buying a Used Car: An Informative Guide
In need of a new car? Many people in this situation are currently querying whether it would be better to buy new or used and you are likely to find that second-hand is the way to go in 2022. This is because buying used is a smarter financial option as used cars are cheaper, you can get more for your money, they are cheaper to insure, and you do not have to worry about depreciation. So, what are the key steps in buying a second-hand car?
Consider Your Finances
First, you want to consider your finances and how you will afford to pay for the car. Paying upfront will work out to be the cheapest option, but if this is not realistic then you could look into a Car Finance deal with the dealership or a personal loan if purchasing from a private seller. Crucially, make sure you factor in the running costs when working out your budget to ensure that you can comfortably afford the car.
Start Research
Next, you will want to start research and looking online for places to buy a used car. You should look around for reputable dealers that have used cars for sale near you and start to compare prices and look at reviews from previous customers. This will give you an idea of what the best dealerships are and how much the car that you have in mind is going to set you back.
Check the Paperwork
Checking over the paperwork is just as important as examining the car and taking it for a test drive. You want to make sure that the used car comes with the logbook (V5C), seller’s details, service history, MOT status, proof of purchase and the owner’s manual. Additionally, the documents that you need to provide include your driving license, insurance policy, road tax and payment documents.
Test Drive
You should never buy a used car without taking it for a test drive. This gives you the chance to test the performance of the car, so try to complete as many maneuvers as possible to assess how the car performs and if there are any issues. You should also use this as an opportunity to see if you feel happy, safe and confident behind the wheel.
Final Checks
You will also want to examine the interior and exterior for signs of damage – there is helpful info online for doing this. It is also a good idea to get a mechanic to assess the vehicle so that you can be sure that it is roadworthy. You will also want to check that the VIN and engine number match to those in the logbook.
This post should help you to navigate the used car market with confidence and find the right car for your needs.
