Buying a new car is an important decision. Often researchedonline through a car classifieds you’ll be buying through a dealer or private seller, you want to ensure that you get the best possible deal. Therefore it is always wise to plan ahead, and make sure that you know everything about the vehicle before making a final purchase.
Certain areas that need to be considered, especially before you buy any new, or used cars for sale include:
1. Realise the purchase price isn’t always the final cost
There are many elements to consider when buying either a new or second hand car. Factors include the insurance that you will be charged, how much the registration charges and taxes will be once you sign it into your name, and the running cost overall. Therefore it is always best to keep these items in mind for each vehicle you look at. Realise the financial commitment will always be more than the initial purchase cost. Not to mention any unexpected repair cost that may arise.
2. Always check for theused car values
With many online facilities, there are a variety of ways that you can check the value of a vehicle. No-one wants to be caught out by paying more than what the car is actually worth on the open market. Then they will find it hard if they wish to resell in the future.
3. Owner correspondence
You need to ensure that the person selling the vehicle has the authority to do so. In this instance it is always wise to ensure that all the registration documents correspond with the person that you are buying it off. Check the registration papers details match the vehicles details, things like the Rego, VIN and Chassis number should match the paper work, check also the owners name and address match the paper work.
4. Second hand cars require a thorough Inspection
When buying a second hand car you should always carry out a full and proper inspection. This should be done during daylight hours so that you can clearly see any dents or scratches that it may have. If at all possible take a third party with you for a second opinion, preferably a mechanic or someone who has some knowledge. There are just a few main areas which should be checked.
- The exterior panels should be perfectly aligned for structural soundness. Any uneven joins or seams indicates damage and previous repair.
- Check all the electrics work and we mean everything from the cigarette lighter, the stereo, the hazards lights, high beams, low beams, boot lights, interior lights and anything else that’s electrical in nature.
- Check all the doors, windows, boot, bonnet, mirrors, reclining and shifting seats,seat belts and anything else that’s got repetitive movement must be examined.
- Check the overall condition of the mechanics. A vehicles mechanics should be absent of any leaking, should be absent of any weird noises while running and the exhaust should be crisp and virtually invisible.Same goes with the transmission and any other mechanical areas. It’s an overall easy look and listen approach but can’t obviously replace the completeness of a proper mechanical inspection which is always the most reliable method.
For a more complete and thorough guide in inspecting a car, you may want to look into one of our articles on How To Inspect a Used Car Like A Pro.
5. Take the Car on a Test Drive
Before buying a car you need to know that it is in full working order. So you should take it for a test drive for at least 10-15 minutes for driving along both fast and slow roads so that you can encounter all of the driving experience. During this time you should also listen for any banging or knocking noises. This can be vital, especially if you are hoping to reduce the price or even walk from the deal.
6. Check the Mileage
Although the vehicle that you wish to purchase may show a certain mileage figure, it is possible that this could have been tampered with. This can become evident if you inspect the wear and tear of certain areas of the car. You should check the pedals, steering wheel, and gear knob. Here you may see evidence of wear as the vehicle has been used on a more regular basis than the mileage specifies.
Carrying out our step 2 suggestion also often includes are mileage check also.
7. Fair price negotiation
Be fair when it comes to price negotiation, find a bargain yes, but most people know when they are being haggled unfairly on a price that seems unjustifiably low, this can and often does lead to awkward behaviour and unfriendly responses. So in other words when it comes to used car prises just try be realistic.
8. Does the Car have a Service History?
Especially when you buy a used car you should consider the vehicles service history. Any reputable owner will have kept a record of all the repairs that have been undertaken by providing the receipts to prove that the work has been carried out. This is even more important if the car is over three years old.
9. Is There Any Out-Standing Finance?
It is also important when you buy a used car that you research into any prior financial agreements. As the new owner you may be held responsible for the debt if there are certain clauses in the contract. There are methods to be able to carry out such enquires, most of which are listed online.
10. Be a Good-Buyer
Whether you choose to finance a new vehicle, or buy a used car, you should always be a good buyer. After arranging a viewing ensures that you arrive on time. Agree with the seller the required arrangements, and carry them out promptly.
You should organize an appropriate method of transferring payment efficiently. Neither party like to be held up in such transactions. Then you can be confident when you are buying a car that everything will run quick and smoothly.
