Purchasing a second hand car can be the only option for some people, especially since new vehicles cost so much. However, there are plenty of bombs now for sale on the market and youll want to steer clear of these as best as you can. Without the proper knowledge and planning, buying a used automobile is certainly risky, causing you to spend thousands of pounds on a complete wreck. To help you avoid this scenario, here are four essential considerations to make before handing over your hard-earned money.
Always Do Your Research
Going into the used car market with limited knowledge is a recipe for disaster. So that youre not taken advantage of, youll need to conduct some research about any particular used cars you have your eyes on. Scan the internet for local dealers and see if there are any models that lie within your price range. By putting in the time and effort, you can gain a host of information on any second hand car you wish to buy. So you have an arsenal of knowledge at your disposal, make sure to look up the following important topics prior to heading out to the used car yard in person.
The reputation of that vehicle brand
The cars history via its ID number (VIN)
Any recent floods that could have caused damage
The service records of that automobile
Find out as much as you can about the car so that you can then make a better decision without being pressured by the salesman into a bad deal.
Know Common Dealer Techniques
Speaking of sales staff, its also important to know precisely how some of these individuals work in order to improve their profits. When you walk into a car yard, never mention matters such as trade-ins and financing until youve actually found a vehicle that you like. Be wary about the details you divulge when you first arrive. Just as you find the best car loans by careful comparison and negotiation, so too should you be cautious when purchasing a vehicle. If you discuss these vehicle issues prematurely, the dealer can easily use that information as leverage. For example, they might say that only certain cars can be financed. This is often a downright lie as every car they offer should be able to be financed or traded in for.
Make a Vehicle Inspection Checklist
Its also important to look over the car for any damage or warning signs prior to taking it out on the road. Before you visit a car dealership, make sure you know how to do the following:
Looking for frame damage by inspecting the trim lines
Scanning essential areas which are susceptible to rust
Checking the coolant, brake fluid, oil & transmission fluid
Spotting signs of flood damage in any standard vehicle
Observing overspray or any other signs of recent repairs
Measuring air pressure and wear to spot tyre alignment issues
If all this seems like a lot of work, remember that it will be worth it in the end. If you take the time to familiarise yourself with the many ways of spotting a lemon, youll then save yourself a lot of effort and money later on. After all, youll avoid expensive repairs such as bleeding the brake fluid or replacing rusted components by steering away from these vehicles in the first place!
Always Remember the Test Drive
The last consideration to make is that you should always take a used car out on the road to test its handling and performance. Be wary of any dealer who doesnt let you take their vehicles for a lengthy test drive too. Optimally, youll need over an hour in the drivers seat as this is about how long it takes before you start feeling discomfort. When out on the road, push the car to the limit. Drive it how you normally do. If you experience any issues, youll then know its not the vehicle for you.
These four pieces of advice should give you the upper hand when purchasing any sort of second hand vehicle. By keeping these considerations in mind, youll then spot any dangers and flee before losing thousands of pounds in the process.
