There’s nothing quite like a shiny brand-new car but thanks to depreciation, you’ll lose about 20% of its value simply by driving it off the forecourt. With that in mind, a used car can be just as exciting, and a lot less pricey.
Not only will you avoid depreciation, but you’re also more likely to find cheap car insurance quotes for a second-hand car. With advice on what to consider when you buy nearly new, here’s a comparison site, mustard.co.uk.
Check necessary documents
Any car you buy should come with a V5C registration form (logbook). You’ll need this to tax your car and show ownership. If the seller doesn’t have a V5C, they should order a replacement from the Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
Double-check that the vehicle identification number (VIN) of the car matches the one in the logbook. You should also make sure the engine number and car colour match up too.
If the car is more than three years old, it should also have a valid MOT certificate which proves it’s roadworthy.
Look out for signs of damage and confirm the mileage
It’s better to view used cars during the day as evening viewings can mean you miss signs of damage. Check for uneven or mismatched paint finishes or gaps in the bodywork, as these could indicate heavy repair work after an accident.
It’s perfectly normal to find small scratches and dents, and in most cases, these should be relatively easy to repair. You can also use them to negotiate money off the asking price.
It’s worth quickly checking the mileage adds up and is what you’d expect based on the car’s age. You can verify this by looking back at past MOT certificates which will show the mileage at the time. If you think something’s amiss, look for finger marks inside the instrument dashboard glass or loose screws, both could indicate that the odometer has been tampered with.
Carry out basic safety checks
To avoid replacing tyres any time soon, check that there’s a decent amount of tread depth left (3 mm is recommended).
Seat belts should be intact with no signs of fraying and no cuts. Clipping in the seat belt should be smooth with no dragging or pulling.
Have a go at switching on lights and indicators and wind down windows to check they work. The same goes for the sunroof, if there is one. Wipers should leave your windscreen clear and smear-free.
Take the car for a test drive
Test driving the car is really the only way you’ll know if the car is right for you but it’s also an opportunity to make sure it handles as you’d expect. Listen out for squeaking or grinding noises when you brake, as this can be a sign of wear.
Try as many features as you can, including beeping the horn, trying the handbrake, and making sure you can move through the gears without them sticking or being difficult to shift.
Don’t forget car insurance for used cars
The most important rule of buying a used car is not to be afraid to walk away if it’s not right for you. You’re under no obligation to buy the car, even after you’ve test driven it.
If you do decide to buy it, you’ll need to make sure you arrange suitable car insurance before you drive it home, even if that means leaving it with the seller and coming back the day after. If you’re caught driving without insurance, you could face a hefty fine and be given penalty points. In some cases, you may even end up in court and be disqualified from driving.
To compare car insurance for used cars, why not head to mustard.co.uk, where you can search for policies from dozens of leading UK insurers. Simply start an online quote or speak to an expert on 0330 022 8825.
