Used Car Buying Tips

What do you need to look out for?

By Robin Bonniface

Buying a used car these days can be very bewildering as there is such a wide selection. What price do you pay and can you trust the seller?

You don't need extensive mechanical knowledge to make a decent judgement. Read on to find out what to look for to make sure you end up with a reliable car and not an absolute 'lemon'....!

Where to buy - Your options?

Franchised Dealers
The safest place to buy a car - where you are protected by the Consumer Protection Act. They also have parts, service and after-sales support.

Used Car Dealers
An independent dealer is not allied to any particular car manufacturer, but is regulated by the Consumer Protection Act. They are often a good source of quality used cars with higher mileage or in less than perfect condition - but this is reflected in the price.

Internet
Although there is a lack of personal contact, the internet is an excellent tool to price-compare and find exactly the right deal for you - without the hassle of haggling or dealing with sales pressure in the showroom.

Auctions
Serious bargains can be found for the careful buyer. Do your research - visit a number of sales before you buy to get a feel for price and choice. Most importantly - stick to your budget when bidding! Decide which car you want, but never believe it has your name on it or you may pay more than it's worth.

Private Sales
A great place for bargains but you have little protection under the law. RAC/AA vehicle inspections are strongly advised. Thorough checking of the car and its documentation will help you find a reliable purchase.

Car Supermarkets
With a wide and varied choice of used cars - often under 12 months old and complete with manufacturer guarantee - Car Supermarkets are a trouble-free and convenient option. However, just like a supermarket, you pick your product 'off the shelf' - there's no negotiating.

Hints and Tips

• Prepare your questions before you get there. 

• Check the car's mileage and assess whether the condition of the car stacks up.

• Check the chassis and engine number match the logbook.

• Ask if the car is an import or if the car has ever been damaged in an accident.

• Decide your price prior to going to buy a car - and stick to it!

Your 10 point Checklist

1.Logbook. Don't buy a car without a V5 registration document. No log book - no sale!

2.Car Exterior. Look for severe examples of wear and tear, accident damage or serious rust - but be realistic.

3.Car Interior. Check to see if the seats are heavily worn. Is the steering wheel smooth and shiny? If the mileage isn't well above average then it could be clocked.

4.Under the Bonnet. Check the front corners and down the sides for signs of welding repairs. Check the engine number against the logbook.

5.The Engine. Check how quickly the engine starts. Does the engine sound regular and are there any abnormal noises?

6.Gearbox. Does the car pull away without jumping out of gear? Check the car moves easily through all the gears.

7.Brakes. On a hill, put the handbrake on to check it holds the car. When braking, does the car brake promptly without veering off to the left or right?

8.Electrics. Try out all the electrics: windows, central locking, heater, radio etc. Check the air- conditioning (if applicable) and make sure all the warning lights on the dashboard go out quickly after the engine is turned on.

9.Your Instinct. Do the seller's reasons for selling the car seem valid? Is the service history correct and are there any unexplained gaps? Check the service book.

10.The Deal. Set your price and be prepared to walk away if you don't get the price you want.