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Welcome to our third feature in the Motors.co.uk How to Car series. Last time, we checked out how to make budgeting sexy – and you can take a look at that here. However today, we’re turning our attention to the next part of the process – what to look for when you’re about to buy a car.
So you’ve found a car online and through the different options of paying for it, but what happens when you’re up close and personal with a the car? Though it can be a little daunting at times, we’ve got some of the key tips and tricks to bear in mind when you go and check out a used car.
At times like this, it’s a good idea to keep things simple, which is why we’ve opted for a checklist to tick off. So let’s take a look at what you need to know.
Now when it comes to vehicle history, there are a few more things to consider. We’d always advise doing a vehicle history check by using the car’s registration plate. Offered by third-party providers, these showcase outstanding finance on the vehicle, as well as if it’s ever been stolen, written off or recalled.
You can also use the government’s online history checker, though that only gives basic information about MOT and mileage.
We’d always ask to see a car’s service manual too as this will give you a clear indication about its history; look for service stamps in the manual and at what mileage they were conducted at. Ask to see any receipts for work carried out, too. Gather as much information as you can in order to get a clearer idea about the car’s past. Always make sure that the vehicle has its logbook (V5c), too. Without it, you won’t be able to tax the vehicle, leaving you open to a potential fine and penalty points if caught by police.
If you’re not one hundred per cent happy to check over a car’s mechanicals, then many experts – like the RAC – offer full vehicle inspections which can help to throw light on any potential issues that could be lying underneath the car. Not only will this give you added peace of mind, but it could save you costly future repairs.
In the next feature, we’ll be taking a look at the key things you need to ask a seller when buying a car from them. It’ll incorporate some of the main questions to pose to someone selling you a car – so stay tuned.
After completing his university studies in English and Creative Writing in Cardiff, Jack is now a full time motoring writer at Blackball Media. His love of cars stems from his childhood years when he began to live and breathe all-things automotive.
December 16, 2020