As the cost-of-living crisis continues to squeeze household budgets for a second year, many Brits are buying used cars for more affordable transportation. However, purchasing a second-hand vehicle can be daunting, fraught with potential pitfalls and hidden costs.
Below, we share some factors you’ll need to think about if you want to make a sound and satisfying car purchase or lease a car.
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Budget and price
Before you start browsing listings, it's crucial to determine how much you can afford to spend. In addition to the asking price, you need to account for ongoing costs like insurance, road tax, fuel and maintenance.
Be wary of listings priced significantly below the average, as they may have hidden issues. And remember to factor in some wiggle room for negotiations and unexpected repairs.
Vehicle logbook and documents
Checking the vehicle logbook (V5C) is a must, proving ownership and providing important details about the vehicle's history.
Check that the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the logbook matches the one on the car and that the registered keeper's address is the same as where you're viewing the vehicle. Be suspicious if the seller can't produce the logbook or if it appears altered.
MOT and service history
A comprehensive MOT and service history indicates that the car has been well-maintained, while gaps in the records might be hiding expensive problems.
Be sure to check the MOT history online using the government website, as this will reveal any past failures or advisories, providing insight into potential issues.
Safety checks
Inside the cabin, it’s worth checking that all lights, indicators, windscreen wipers and seatbelts work correctly, and that no warning lights come up on the dashboard.
On the outside, check the tyre tread depth (the legal minimum is 1.6mm) and look for signs of uneven wear, which could indicate suspension problems. You should also take a test drive and test the brakes thoroughly, listening for any unusual noises.
Mileage
A car’s mileage should be consistent with its age and appearance. Be wary of vehicles with mileage that’s suspiciously low or that doesn't match the level of wear and tear. If in doubt, a vehicle history check can reveal if the odometer has been tampered with.
Bodywork
Carefully inspect the car's exterior in good light. Look for inconsistencies in paint colour or texture, which may indicate repairs following an accident, and check panel gaps for uniformity and run your hand along the vehicle's edges to feel for overspray.
Don't forget to examine the underside for rust or signs of structural damage. Small dents or scratches are normal for pre-owned cars, but extensive damage is usually a red flag.
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