If you’re looking for a used car, it’s essential to prepare and be fully aware of exactly what it is you’re looking for. If you’re dealing with a salesman, you have to know how to handle sales patter and maintain your resolve. Here’s a quick guide to the things you need to look out for to ensure you don’t get ripped off.
Open Your Eyes
Look around the roads and car parks and make a note of the types of car you see most often. If there is an abundance of a certain make, it probably means it’s reliable, popular and durable. Be a little more scientific too, by trawling auto magazines and web pages and comparing prices on similar models.
You would also be well-advised to consult consumer reports to see what kinds of car have good track records. Fish4.co.uk provides consumer feedback on used cars.
Mileage
Perhaps the single most asked question of a used car dealer is “what’s the mileage?” and if you are to compete with the most savvy of buyers, you will need to know what you’re looking for. The mileage of a vehicle is the yardstick with which to judge its wear and tear, which in turn gives you an idea of how much longer it’ll be on the road. Set realistic goals ? you are unlikely to find a used car that’s six months old with 5000 miles on the clock. Just because a car has done 40,000 miles, that doesn’t mean it’s not a good find ? if it’s under five years old it may still have some time left on its original warranty. However, if you’re planning to rack up thousands of miles yourself, it’s best to look for a lower mileage.
Purpose
Before buying any car, you must establish what your motoring needs are. Is it just a run-around you want? Are you on the lookout for a reliable family car? Ascertaining exactly what your needs are will help you to make a more informed decision. In many respects, finding the right used car is a matter of luck as much as judgement. Unlike buying new, you don’t have the luxury of a set of specifications which can then be fulfilled exactly by ordering what you want. You may have to make sacrifices on one or two areas. Being prepared for this eventuality will prevent potential disappointment.
Price
Finally, the all-important price tag. Can you really afford the car you’ve got your heart set on? Again, be realistic, but also bear in mind that even a used car is an investment, and may be sold on again when you’ve had your use out of it. To buy a car that costs ?2000, you may need to find some extra finance. Alliance & Leicester have a range of loans online that are particularly suitable for car buyers, and they offer low APR.
You will also need to consider getting your car insured. Thanks to the internet, finding the top car insurance quote has become much easier recently, but you will still need to shop around. For car insurance provided by a panel of insurers, take a look at ASDA Finance. Meanwhile, Co-Operative Insurance is also a recommended company to find a car insurance quote from.
As the editor of the blog, She curate insightful content that sparks curiosity and fosters learning. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, she strive to bring diverse perspectives and engaging narratives to readers, ensuring every piece informs, inspires, and enriches.
