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Buying a used car? Six things drivers need to know

Buying a used car? Six things drivers need to know

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Every year, thousands of people go through the process of buying a used car car.

Whether you’re upgrading to a roomier model or just looking for a cost-effective way to get around, buy a used car vehicle Ideally it should be a simple experience.

However, when investing in a used car, key considerations are crucial to ensure it perfectly meets your needs.

Understanding these points is key to making an informed decision.

A car's history lets you know how well it has been cared for

A car’s history lets you know how well it has been cared for (Castrol)

Budget

When buying a used car, establishing a solid budget is the best place to start. By creating a budget, you can ensure you don’t spend more money than you initially wanted to, and it will also help narrow down your search.

The good news is that many online retailers allow you to filter vehicles by price, ensuring you don’t see anything that’s out of your budget. Remember, don’t be afraid to walk away from a trade if the price looks too high.

For safety reasons, don’t be tempted by cars that look too cheap. Many online scammers use this process to lure victims – cars are listed at very low prices and interested parties are asked to pay a deposit to secure the vehicle.

Fuel type

Deciding on the type of fuel you will buy in the future is also a good way to narrow down your search. It’s a good idea to think about the type of driving you’re doing; if it’s mainly local travel, a petrol, hybrid or electric model might be a good idea, while long-distance drivers might prefer the long-range efficiency of a diesel.

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Remember to also consider your car’s emissions, as these play a central role in how much road tax you’ll pay.

history

A car’s history can give you insight into how well it has been cared for. At a basic level, you can check your car’s MOT history with a free government checker, letting you know how it’s performed and whether it has failed any previous tests.

For a small fee, the provider can also let you know if the car has been written off before or if there is any outstanding finance. If this is the case, you may be liable for any outstanding financial payments, so it’s well worth checking.

The most important consideration when investing in a used car is making sure it perfectly meets your needs.

The most important consideration when investing in a used car is making sure it perfectly meets your needs. (Jacko)

maintain

When creating your first budget, it’s a good idea to factor in maintenance. All types of cars require regular maintenance to keep them in top condition, and making sure you have enough money to do so is crucial.

Whether it’s a regular MOT, a standard oil service, or regular fluid changes, it’s vital to make sure your car gets the maintenance it needs.

repair

When looking at a used car, it’s a good idea to check to see if any repairs have been made – good or bad. Look at the main panels on the car to make sure there aren’t any weird gaps (which could indicate a previous collision) or paint colors that aren’t consistent. When you test drive, be sure to listen for any strange noises, squeaks, or rattles, as well as vibrations in the brake pedal or steering wheel.

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Some companies offer inspection services, where a trained engineer will go to the car you’re looking at and check it for a variety of issues. If you’re not too confident about your car’s mechanical components, or want a little more peace of mind, it might be worth it.

Again, just like maintenance, it’s worth remembering that things will go wrong with your car from time to time. Setting up a fund so that you can have your car repaired if needed is a good idea and well worth factoring into your initial budget.

Warranty

A warranty will cover you against certain problems that may arise with your car, and different retailers offer different levels of coverage. It’s always worth checking what type of warranty is offered on any used car you’re looking at and how long it lasts after you buy the car.

There are many third-party warranty providers that will offer warranties on used cars for a fee. This can be a good option to help avoid costly repairs down the road.

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