If you decide to buy a used car, make sure you look at its history, its vehicle identification number (VIN) and whether it has ever been involved in a road traffic accident.
You can check the vehicle history here by clicking on reliable history vehicle report websites that are easy to navigate. For no charge you’re able to find out about the vehicle’s records along with information and background history.
There’s lots of useful advice featured on the net however always look out for the following:-
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Although buying a used car can cut down on costs to get you on the road, it’s advisable to set yourself a budget. It won’t take long to work out how much you can spend on a used motor, however do remember the cost of registration, tax, insurance, maintenance and running it.
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Check out the market value of a used car using online car dealerships if you’re going to buy privately. There are used car advertisements online and in the local newspapers. Price guides can also help you just in case you might be paying over the odds for a vehicle.
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Once you’ve made your decision to buy a particular used car, have it looked over by a reputable mechanic. If you think the car is too good to be true, it just might be. A reputable garage will take your car in, thoroughly inspect it and let you know if there is anything wrong with the engine, exhaust system, battery etc.,
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If you’re unsure of which type, model or colour of car to buy, why not go window shopping? Online second hand car dealers feature makes, models, age of the vehicle and where you can go to have a look. Don’t rush in and buy the first motor you see, this could be costly.
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Whether buying a used car at a garage or from a private owner, ask the questions “how long has the car been for sale?”, “why is it being sold?”, “has it been damaged at any time?” and “will it meet a RWC (road worthy certificate)?” Go to the home address of a private seller to make sure the address is the same as it is on the registration certificate.
Take a copy of the car advertisement to check details such as the mileage.
Check the History of the Car
Although people who sell their motors seem genuine, you should still check out the history of the car. It could have been stolen, has an outstanding loan or may have been written off in the past. By getting the car’s VIN number you can see if it’s registered correctly. This would certainly save you a lot of cash and heartache especially if you found out it wasn’t a legitimate sale.
Another good point when buying a used car is to see it in daylight. At night there could be flaws you wouldn’t notice.