What to look for when buying a used car
Buying a used car can be a great way to save money… but you’ve got to be careful!
There are several things you’ve got to look out for, including:
- 📅 The car’s history
- 🧽 Condition
- 🛣️ Mileage
It’s also essential to check out the vehicle for wear and tear, which has a complete and authentic service history. If not, steer well clear!
Don’t forget to take the car out for a test drive to assess its performance and thoroughly inspect it. Both will help you avoid costly mistakes.
- The different ways of buying a used car
- Detailed vehicle documentation and history check
- Conduct a comprehensive vehicle safety and condition assessment
- The importance of a thorough test drive
- FAQs
The different ways of buying a used car
When purchasing a used car, carefully choosing where you get it is crucial to ensure that you end up with a quality vehicle rather than a dud. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most reliable sources:
| Source | Overview | Advantages | Considerations |
| Franchised dealerships | Dealerships associated with specific car manufacturers. | Can often offer certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles, which are thoroughly inspected and have warranties. | Prices may be higher than other sources, but the peace of mind from added guarantees can be worth it. |
| Independent dealerships | Smaller dealerships that aren’t tied to a specific brand. | Often provide a wide range of vehicles at competitive prices. | Quality can vary significantly, so thorough research and vehicle inspections are essential. |
| Online marketplaces | Platforms like Motorway. | Extensive listings allow you to compare prices and models easily. You can filter searches by specific criteria, such as price, mileage, and location. | |
| Private sellers | Individuals selling their own vehicles, often through classified ads or word of mouth. | Typically offer the best prices as there are no dealer markups. | Vehicles are usually sold as-is, without warranties. A thorough inspection is critical. |
| Car auctions | Events where vehicles are sold to the highest bidder. | Potential for significant savings, especially if you’re knowledgeable about cars. | Auction vehicles are often sold without guarantees. It’s easy to miss underlying issues. |
Detailed vehicle documentation and history check
When buying a used car, it’s essential to thoroughly check the vehicle’s paperwork.
1. V5C registration document
Obtaining the V5C registration document and ensuring the seller’s details match is the first bit of paperwork to check.
- Overview: The car’s logbook.
- Key information:
- Ownership details: Verifies that the seller is the legitimate owner.
- Vehicle identification: Ensures the VIN matches the car’s other documentation.
2. MOT history
Check the car’s MOT history for any past failures or advisories.
- Overview: MOT history provides insight into the car’s past inspections.
- Key information:
- Previous failures: Highlights patterns of repeated issues.
- Advisories: Identifies any minor problems that may require attention soon.
3. Service records
Verify the service history records to confirm regular maintenance.
- Overview: Documentation of the car’s maintenance and repairs.
- Key information:
- Regular maintenance: Confirms the car has been regularly serviced properly.
- Major repairs: Reveals if the vehicle has had significant repairs or replacements.
4. HPI check
Perform an HPI check to uncover any outstanding finance, past accidents, or if the vehicle was stolen. This ensures transparency and protects you from hidden issues.
- Overview: A detailed report that reveals crucial details about the vehicle’s history.
- Key information:
- Outstanding finance: Ensures the car isn’t under any loan that you might inherit.
- Accident history: Identifies if the vehicle has been in any significant accidents.
- Theft record: Confirms if the car has been reported as stolen.
Mileage verification: Checks if the mileage is consistent with the car’s age.
Conduct a comprehensive vehicle safety and condition assessment
Giving a used car an all-over safety and condition assessment is crucial when buying it:
| Part of car | Check for |
| Exterior | RustDentsPaint inconsistencies |
| Tyres | DepthWear |
| Electronics | All the lightsWindowsAir conditioning |
| Engine | LeaksUnusual noisesFluid levels |
It’s also essential that you take the car for a test drive to check:
- Handling
- Brakes
- Overall performance
Doing these checks helps prevent costly surprises!
The importance of a thorough test drive
As mentioned, it’s crucial to do a thorough test drive when buying a used car to ensure it meets your expectations and performs well. This allows you to assess the vehicle’s handling, acceleration, and braking in real-world conditions.
Pay attention to any unusual noises, vibrations, or warning lights. Test all the features, including the air conditioning and infotainment system, to ensure they function correctly. Driving the car in various situations, such as city traffic and on the motorway, provides a better understanding of its overall condition. This critical step helps you gauge the vehicle’s performance and identify potential issues before finalising your purchase.
FAQs
Is mileage important when buying a car?
Yes, mileage is crucial as it indicates the vehicle’s usage level. Lower mileage generally suggests less wear and tear, potentially leading to fewer repairs. However, a well-maintained, higher-mileage car can also be a good buy. Always consider mileage alongside service history and overall condition.
How do I know if I’ve bought a good used car?
You’ve likely bought a good used car if it has a clean vehicle history report, consistent maintenance records, and performs well during a test drive. Ensure there are no significant issues and that the price reflects its condition and market value.
How can I tell if a car is a good deal?
A car is a good deal if it’s priced competitively compared to similar models. Check the vehicle’s condition, history, and mileage to ensure it aligns with the asking price. A fair deal should balance cost with quality and reliability.
Ready to sell?
Ready to learn more about valuing, maintaining, and selling your car? Check out our other guides here, covering everything from hybrid and electric car depreciation to converting your car to dual-LPG fuel.