Cars

Buying a Second Hand Car

If you're looking to buy a new car, you may be considering a second hand model in order to save a bit of cash. This is a perfectly good way of getting what you need for a lower price but there can be some pitfalls. Many used cars are sold by reputable dealers who have already put them through the necessary tests to ensure they're roadworthy, but sometimes other sellers aren't quite so scrupulous.

The money you can save through buying second hand is enough to make anybody consider it thoroughly and, if you've got your heart set on a pre-loved machine, one of the biggest favours you can do yourself is to buy from someone you trust. Whether this is a good friend or an official dealer, you need to know that if anything goes wrong that shouldn't the other party ought to take responsibility and compensate you. This will usually be a dealer that will provide you with guarantees that the car will be fine and promises of replacement or reimbursement should anything go wrong.

If you are thinking about purchasing from an individual, there are other things you should be doing - some of which apply to buying a second hand car generally, too. For example, you should always make sure you see the car's papers - the registration, the MOT, the service records and paperwork regarding any outstanding finance on the car. You should also query as to the running costs of the vehicle as this can make a big difference to what seems like a bargain in the first place!

Do your research on the make and model of the car and check out current prices to compare the second hand price to see if you're really getting a good deal. Following this, you can ask a friend with a good knowledge of cars to have a look at the vehicle and to let you know if there is anything amiss. And, as with any car purchase, take it for a test drive! You should test it for at least ten miles to ensure smooth running and that the car feels right to drive for you.

A few final checks include asking the AA, the RAC or a garage to provide you with an independent check and only following their approval should you think about handing over any money for the car. Once that's all done, congratulations - you have your new, second hand car and shouldn't have to worry that it'll let you down in the foreseeable future! Just make sure you have the right car insurance before taking off yourself and enjoy a trouble-free journey home.

About the Author

Janine Barclay writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.