​Tips for buying a used car.

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Buying a used vehicle is a great option when shopping on a budget. But there are some precautions to take into account. Here are eight important tips to consider when buying a used car.

However, while used car prices can be friendlier on your pocket, some pre-owned vehicles might have mechanical and body damage issues that are undisclosed by the seller.

If you’re looking at buying a used car, here are eight tips to help you.

How to negotiate a used car deal

1. First steps for buying a used car

Start by creating a personal motoring budget and setting a price cap. Before you test drive any cars, first figure out how much you can realistically spend.

to help work out what you can afford and what your monthly instalments will be if you decide to get vehicle finance.

The AA also highly recommends investigating the safety features available in a vehicle and, if possible, checking the vehicle’s safety rating with them. It’s also important to determine what sort of fuel consumption you will be happy with.

Bear in mind future maintenance and service costs (including replacement costs of items such as tyres and brake pads), and don’t forget to factor in the cost of insuring your car.

2. Buying a used car privately or through a dealership

Each option offers pros and cons, whereas the private option might be a bit cheaper sometimes, but on the other hand, dealership buys can bring some peace of mind that there’s a company standing behind the quality of the vehicle you’re purchasing. Do your homework first to find a trusted dealership.

3. How to research a pre-owned car dealership

Buying a used car from a pre-owned dealership can provide you with greater peace of mind, particularly if you’re buying from a reputable, established outlet.

4. How to research the actual value of a used car

Do your research on online platforms to compare and ask for quotes at dealerships and potentially some friends advice.

Use the free tool to determine your currents car's value https://www.pupkewitz-motors.com/new-cars/valuation/

5. How to research vehicle running costs

Shop around and compare various models’ features and prices. When researching, pay attention to kilometres on the odometer, investigate things like the car’s service manuals and ask about its accident history and if it comes with the spare key.

Fuel consumption and the cost of the car’s parts is another important research point.

6. How to check a used car isn’t stolen

Whether you’re buying from a private person or a dealership, you have a right to check whether a vehicle is stolen, or has been stolen and recovered in the past. A vehicle verification will help you to see the status of the car you’re considering buying. All you need is the car’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), which can be found on a copy of NaTIS.

You may even consider letting a knowledgeable friend or family member know you are going to look at a car, particularly if you’re buying privately, to avoid being scammed on the test drive.

7. How to complete a used car inspection

Buying a used car means you’re taking a wager on the vehicle’s mechanical history. But you can limit unexpected repair and maintenance expenses if you determine the actual condition of the car through an independent check-up.

8. How to negotiate a used car deal

Once you’ve done your research on your dream car and you’ve decided that you’re going to buy it, you can start your negotiations with the private seller or dealership. But be patient in this process as the seller might reduce the price if you can give them a good reason to, based on your research.

It’s important to remember that walking away is your right as a buyer, and you should be prepared to leave if you feel pressured or uncertain about a vehicle.

After deciding on the price of the car with the seller, sign an offer to purchase. You may also have to pay a deposit for surety reasons (10% of the asking price is usually more than enough, but this also depends on whether you’re buying cash or financing a portion of the vehicle’s cost).