Knowing What to Look For When Buying a Used Car
Considering how the economy has taken a turn for the worse in recent years, it’s not at all surprising that more and more people are looking into the possibility of selling their existing car and buying a used car.
This decision, which many have taken in light of the recent recession, has proven to be wise one. Unfortunately, it’s not just a case of heading to your closest used car dealer and buying the first car you see. There are a number of factors to consider first.
Naturally, your budget will influence your decision. You’ll need to have your current car valued and then decide whether you wish to sell it privately or use it in a part exchange with the dealer. As well as considering how much money you’ll have available to spend, its also advisable to factor in how much you’re likely to spend on fuel, insurance and tax. These factors are likely to change when purchasing a new car so it’s important consider how they could affect your overall budget.
When it comes to the car itself, you need to think about exactly what you’re going to be using the car for. If you’re going to be using your car on a daily basis, travelling long distances, up and down the country, then you’ll need to find yourself a powerful, highly fuel efficient diesel car that’s both comfortable and relaxing to drive. Although it will initially cost you more to fuel the car, you’ll save money in the long term as smaller, less powerful cars aren’t as fuel efficient when it comes to longer journeys because they require their engines to work harder. On the other hand, if all you’ll be using the car for is the occasional visit to the shops, then a car with a smaller engine will be ideal.
Now that you’ve got a clear idea of what car you’d like and the size of your budget, you need to know how to inspect the car. Your first starting point is to carry out a car history check to ensure that everything is in order. You should also examine the car's documents, such as the log book, service history, previous MOT certificates, and vehicle identification number. With regards to the exterior of the car, you should look for any signs of rust, gaps between the panels and uneven paintwork.
So, now that you know what to look for when buying a used car, all you need to do now is find yourself some reliable car dealer reviews.
