Buying a used car: Some useful tips
When done correctly, buying a second-hand car can be an excellent decision. You will get much more for your money, especially considering that most new cars lose around 40% of their value in the first year, most of which goes as soon as it rolls off the forecourt.
That said, as with any purchase, there are some risks and potential pitfalls that come with buying a used car, some of which you may not see coming unless you do a bit of digging around. In light of this, this month, Auto Exhausts & Tyres will provide three essential tips that you should keep in mind when purchasing a used car.
Get your finances straight
When it comes to money, it’s best to work out how much you have to spend and stick to it. However, it’s not unlikely that you will need to choose a particular method of financing your car, since not many have the cash to pay for a car out right. If you opt for a vehicle finance package, it’s a good idea to workout how much you could put down as a deposit and, from that, calculate exactly how much you would be able to pay monthly.
Check the car’s history
When purchasing a used-car, one of the hardest things to pin down is the history of the car itself. With new cars it’s simple – they have no history. With used cars, though, we need to be a little more diligent.
First and foremost, these checks if there are any particular discrepancies in the car’s history, such as being written off, of which you should be aware. However, these checks can also unearth some other key information, such as whether the car has been clocked. That is, the owner may have deliberately wound the mileage back without you knowing in a bid to make a sale!
Research suggests that around one in four cars have a history which their current owner would like to hide. Whether it’s been stolen or previously written off, it’s certainly worth putting the effort in to check it out.
Know your rights
Luckily, if you have been sold a car that isn’t roadworthy, there are steps you can take, providing that you know these two pieces of legislation:
- Consumer Rights Act: Under this law, all cars bought from dealers must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and as described.
- Road Traffic Act 1988: Section 75 states that it is illegal to sell a vehicle that is not roadworthy.
So, if you can demonstrate there is a fault with the vehicle, especially if you bring this fault to the attention of the trader within the first thirty days of possession, you are entitled to a full refund. However, you can also opt for a repair or a replacement if you wish.
Auto Exhausts & Tyres offer the highest standards at the greatest prices when it comes to servicing your car. Be it a full car service or a shorter interim one, our fully trained and experienced mechanics will ensure your car is in the best shape and up to scratch with industry regulations. For more information, or to book a car service at our garage in Lincoln, contact our friendly team today.
