Should you really invest in a second-hand car?
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Whilst it may seem like a fantastic way to buy a new motor on a budget, many second-hand cars could end up costing you a lot more than the initial price tag.
In an investigation conducted by The Citizen’s Advice Bureau, 2,519 second-hand car complaints we’re received in the first two weeks of September 2013. 4 in 5 of the cars in question were in need of essential repairs. Would you drive away with this burden?
We’d all like to think we wouldn’t miss such issues, but unfortunately there are plenty of things to look out for when buying a second-hand car.
It’s the little things that matter
Imagine driving away in your new purchase with seatbelts that wouldn’t adequately protect you in an accident. It sounds like a mistake you could never make, but how many times have you taken a moment to check each belt individually? They might be made from tough material, but belts can begin to fray if the car has been in a previous accident or the previous driver has kept pets in the car.
Make a point to unravel each belt, even if that means digging around the back of the seats.
Has the seller been in an accident?
As mentioned, the car could have been involved in a bump previously. Whilst this could have been a minor accident, it’s important to probe the driver and look out for signs of hidden damage. Run your hands along the paint job to identify scrapes and dints that aren’t visible to the eye.
Most sellers will be upfront about any accidents that have occurred, but they could still downplay the situation. Don’t be afraid to ask further questions.
Listen to your instincts… and the car itself!
Whilst you’re testing driving the vehicle, check that the radio works and turn it off for the rest of the journey. Try not to get distracted by the seller as you’ll need to listen out for any sounds that the car makes on your journey. Even a slight rattle could indicate a bigger issue, or simply an annoyance that will begin to grate on you weeks after the purchase!
Don’t assume you’re safe at a dealership
The unfortunate truth is that there are risks involved with many second-hand car purchases and dealerships can also use tactics to flog damaged vehicles. A recent investigation by Devon & Somertset Trading Standards saw 13 cars withdrawn from sale, after 18 forecourts in the region raised cause for concern.
You might have assumed that you’d be taking a bigger risk from meeting a stranger selling their own car online, but the issues still remain at the dealership too.
You don’t have to be an expert to spot these issues; you just need to know what to look out for when buying a used car. It can be a tricky road to navigate, but if you inform yourself with all the facts you stand a better chance of making the right investment.
