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Tips for Buying a Second Hand Car

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Top Tips for Buying A Second Hand Car

 Buying a second hand car can be a stressful time, especially if you know nothing about cars. We have put together a quick checklist of things to watch-out for when making a purchase to ensure the car you are buying is safe, reliable and roadworthy.

 

Before you part with any cash make sure you have a copy of an up to date Used Car Price Guide available from most Newsagents. This is essential to make sure you don’t get ripped off.

 

Make sure you view the car in broad daylight to see exactly what you are getting

 

Take Someone with you who knows what to look for when buying a car. These should include:-

 

Tyres – Check for uneven wear on the treads of the tyres, this could point to problems with the car’s suspension. Find out when the car last had new tyres fitted.

 

Oil – Check the dipstick .If the dipstick comes out fairly clean and golden then the chances are the oil has been regularly changed and the engine well looked after. Black, tar-like oil would suggest that an engine has not been maintained.

 

Body work – Check the paintwork on the car. Make sure the colour and texture is consistent all over. If not it the car might have had a re-spray. Check for signs of welding on the engine, and lift the carpet in the boot to check for any concealed repairs.

 

Mileage –Check the mileage to see if you think the general state of the car is a good representation of the mileage showing on the clock, If you are not happy that it is there’s a chance it could have been “clocked” (had the mileage counter tampered with).

 

VIN –Check the Vehicle Identity Number (VIN)which is usually found under the bonnet, or possibly on the bottom corner of the windscreen. Check that the number is identical to the one on the car’s registration document.. If the number does NOT tally with the one on the registration document, you’d be well advised to steer clear of a purchase.

 

If the car is older than 3 years, check that it has a current MOT certificate proving that the car is roadworthy.

 

Go for a test drive making sure that you are insured to do so before you get behind the wheel. Things to pay attention to whilst out on a test drive are:-

 

Check if the engine races when going up hill in a high gear. If it does the car may have a problem with the clutch slipping.

 

Check that you can maneuver the car slowly also remembering to test the reverse gear. Listen out for suspension clunks.

 

 

If after your test-drive and all the visual checks make sure you ask questions about anything that may still bother you.  Remember you are under no obligation to purchase the car there and then so do not feel pushed into making a decision straight away.  Finally, only part with your cash when you feel happy that you are buying a good car at a good price!

 

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