Buying a used car is one of the most important decisions you make as a car buyer. It is important to start the process by researching your new car and confirming that it has been inspected, serviced, and is in good condition. This will ensure any problems or repairs are caught before you take ownership of the car.
However, if you have no idea where to start with your search for a used car, this article is for you. We’ll break down some of the most commonly made mistakes when searching for a used car.
1) Not Doing Your Homework
Have you ever heard of the phrase “buyer beware?”
Do not buy a used car without doing any research. Before you sit down and begin searching through used cars, you must do your research on the different brands and models that are available to you. This will help give you an idea of which cars to research more thoroughly and bring to the dealerships when shopping. You can complete an internet search and try something like “car dealer Burton on Trent” to bring up local search results.
2) Buying The First Car You See
If you’re in the market for a specific car, don’t blindly pay the asking price without doing any research first. A great way to see what is available for your money is to compare cars that are for sale. So don’t be tempted to buy the first car you see, there may be a better example available elsewhere.
3) Not Checking The Car’s History
When buying a used car it is essential to check the registration and vehicle history report. This will tell you who the car has previously been registered to, which can reveal any problems or outstanding finance that may be on the vehicle. It is also worth looking at when the last service was to see if it is up-to-date. This will give you an idea of how well the vehicle has been looked after by previous owners.
4) Not Hiring A Car Inspector
If you’re not confident checking the condition of the vehicle yourself, it is worth hiring an independent inspector to do this for you. This will give you peace of mind and ensure there are no nasty surprises with your new car. The cost of hiring an expert will be minuscule compared to the cost of repairs should anything go wrong with your purchase.
5) Not Checking The Service History
It is worth noting that you should also check if the car has had any work carried out in previous years. You may want to ask why a certain service wasn’t completed and get a second opinion from another mechanic. This can give you an indication of how well the car has been maintained previously, and what will be required in the future.
6) Not Viewing The Car In Daylight
When it comes to viewing cars, it is always better to visit them in daylight rather than at night. This way, you’ll be able to get a better idea of the general condition of the car and what work may need to be done in the future.
When you’ve made it to the dealership, there are no guarantees. You can still make mistakes and be disappointed by the car you receive, but by following these tips, you will be well equipped for a used car purchase that has been inspected and tested.