Buying a Used Car

There are many advantages to buying a used car. The main one being that it’s a lot cheaper than buying brand new. Used cars can also be cheaper to insure, easier to handle and less likely to be stolen. Many people even find that they are a better driver in a used car. In a new car, they feel nervous and jumpy. They worry more about causing damage and so feel anxious. This can cause them to make poor decisions and to panic when they need to act. In a used car you can feel more comfortable and relaxed, making you a smoother and more instinctive driver.

But, buying a used car isn’t as easy as popping to the local shop or picking one up online. A car is an expensive purchase, so it’s something that you need to do right. Buying the wrong car can mean it isn’t safe, it doesn’t last very long and that it ends up costing you so much in repairs you might as well have bought new in the first place. Here are some tips to help make sure you get the right car.

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Buy from a Trusted Source

You don’t just want to buy a used car from anyone. Of course, if your dad is buying new and offers you a good deal on his old car, you can probably trust him (check the history though!) but buying a used car that you see advertised on someone’s drive can be a risk. Instead, contact a dealer like Honda, or use a trusted car sales website to find your perfect car.

Look at The Millage

One of the first things that most of us think to check is the mileage of a car. Older cars generally lasted for around 100000 miles before serious problems cropped up. However, modern cars can go for 200000 miles in their lifetime. So, when looking at mileage, also consider the age of the car.

Check the Records

Take a look at the cars log book for previous owners. Ideally, you want one or two. If it’s more, you need to ask yourself why. Also look at who these people are. A middle age woman with a family is likely to have driven the car more carefully than a 17-year-old boy racer.

Then, look at the repairs history. Has it failed MOT checks? Why? What repairs have been done and who recently? Is there anything that’s gone wrong and needed repairing or replacing more than once? This should be a concern.

Take a Good Look

Records and history can only tell you so much. You need to see the car in person, and you should never buy online without first inspecting the car and taking a test drive. Take a good look around. Check the tires (and the spare), the brakes, the interior, and exterior. Look at the dashboard lights and warning signs. Then, take a look under the hood. Look for any signs of damage or poor repair work. When you take it for a drive think about how it feels. If you are unsure, ask someone to come with you for a second opinion.