We all know and love BMWs. While some of us can afford a new one, others simply cannot. However, just because you cannot afford a new one, does not mean you should give up on your dream.
Here are five tips for buying a second-hand BMW:
Be prepared: Before you even step into a BMW dealership, you need to do as much research as you can. Read consumer reports and car reviews, ask your friends, family and colleagues and gather information on maintenance and fuel consumption on the BMW model that you like.
If possible, try and narrow the search down to one or two models that fit your criteria. This way you can have as much information as possible to make the correct decision.
Check the records: The service history book is the best way to assess the condition of the car. This helps eliminate vehicles with possible issues rolled back odometers, outstanding services and any excessive wear and tear or ones that have been in accidents. In fact, you should not even bother test driving the car if you have not seen the service history.
While this book will not guarantee that you are buying a good vehicle, it is worth spending a little extra on a vehicle with a service history.
Do not always believe the dealer: The dealer will tell you exactly what you want to hear. So do not believe the salesman when he tells you the vehicle is in perfect condition. Check it out yourself and always taking a knowledgeable person with you. Some of the tell-tale signs of a poor car are the vehicles interior, bonnet, engine compartment, odometer and tyres. Furthermore, never pay a cent until the vehicle has passed an inspection both from your mechanic and from your local traffic department.
Pay attention to the paperwork: Once you have settled on the car and price, do not think that your job stops there. You need to cross-check all paperwork to ensure that it matches up with the car. Check the engine number, registration plate numbers, contact BMWs head office to see who the vehicle is registered to and check in with the vehicles mechanics and other service providers.
This background check will allow you to determine if the vehicle was stolen or not, has any outstanding tickets or fines on it and if it has been in any major accidents. Do not rush this stage, as the more thorough your inspection, the less likely you will buy a dodgy vehicle.
Price versus value: Buying the cheapest BMW might not always be the one with the best value for money. Your goal should be to find a reasonably priced used BMW for sale still in good shape. Remember: if they are asking less for what the car is worth, then you definitely need to be suspicious.
Furthermore, when buying, set a definite limit for the amount that you can afford to pay for a BMW and negotiate with the dealer for discount.
The more research you do before buying a used car, the more likely you will be happy with your purchase. So take note to check the vehicles records and paperwork and be sure to be in contact with the dealership who services the car. A final tip, have patience when buying a second-hand car and do not buy the first one you look at.
