Used cars can offer countless benefits. However, determining if second-hand is the way to go in your case may not be a two minute choice. Thus, today, we’re taking a look into some of the most critical things you should be looking for when buying a used car. It might seem simple, but getting this right can help you pick a suitable model for your needs.
What to Consider When Buying a Used Car
Purchasing a used car isn’t something you should rush into. Remember: that’s true no matter how tempting the ad looks. After all, not all listings are genuine. Still, looking out for a few key things could help when it comes to buying a used car.
Price
One of the first things you’ll want to consider when buying second hand is the price. Indeed, this is one of the main benefits of purchasing used over brand-new vehicles. However, it’s also easy to get caught out – especially when the price looks too good to be true. Spoiler: it normally is.
Of course, how much someone will charge for a second hand car is up to their discretion. However, most people will generally expect a used model to depreciate significantly. This is especially true in the first few years of a car’s life; by around five years, most cars will have fallen in value by around half.
Condition
Another critical factor to keep in mind when buying a used car is the condition of the vehicle. Indeed, we all want to get the most for our money, but a beat up old banger likely won’t be what you’re looking for. As such, always check the bodywork and internal structures of the car closely. Ideally, you should also use a car checker service, which can allow you to view the vehicle’s write-off status and past MOTs.
On that note, though, damaged cars are substantially cheaper; thus, these can be an excellent way to save money and get a more valuable model needing some TLC.
Model
Different types of vehicles have varying strengths. And, of course, there’s no simple way to say which one will be right for your needs. As such, considering the different models that are available and how these might suit your requirements can help you pick a car that’s got everything you need.
Vehicle History
As we’ve briefly mentioned already, checking a car’s history with a car history check is incredibly valuable. However, asking the seller about the vehicle’s past is also helpful; indeed, this can help you understand how it was used. After all, a car that’s done lots of heavy towing may be much more worn than one that’s only done long haul drives or occasional trips to the shop. In turn, this can help tailor your offer and help you find the best balance between price and quality.
Never Take a Chance with Your Used Car Purchase
It’s not always easy to decide whether second hand will be right for your needs. However, this is something that doesn’t have to feel like a minefield with the right approach; and, as part of this, running a car history check before you sign on the dotted line is a must. After all, they only take a few minutes to complete; nonetheless, these checks allow you to quickly see whether a vehicle is likely to be a safe purchase or not. Additionally, understanding the car’s history can help you anticipate potential repair costs and save money in the long run.