Don't get ripped off when buying a used car

View PDF | Print View
by: bythesea
Total views: 9
Word Count: 499
Date: Mon, 18 Jul 2011 Time: 11:41 PM
0 comments

Whether you're buying your used car from a dealer or via a private sale, it's important to be armed with the information that could well save you from buying a dud. It's all very well shaking hands on what looks like the bargain of the century, but you'll be cursing your lack of judgement if you encounter problems that could easily have been avoided.

Your first step after identifying a car you're keen on should be to carry out an HPI (or Hire Purchase Investigation) check. This should show up if the vehicle in question has any outstanding finance attached to it, as well as revealing if it has previously been an insurance write-off or even reported to the police as stolen. There is a cost attached to HPI checks but given the peace of mind that comes with knowing the car you're interested in isn't going to come back and bite you in the behind, it's well worth the relatively low cost.

If your chosen car passes the HPI check then that's a great first step, but you're not out of the woods yet. Luckily, there are some manual checks you can make yourself to see if the vehicle looks like it may have been in an accident that the seller has yet to reveal. Keep an eye out for uneven panels or telltale signs of a hasty re-spray.

The best way to make sure you're truly happy with the vehicle is to take a lengthy test drive. Any seller who is on the level will be happy for you to take the car for a spin; if the person you're dealing with makes any excuses to avoid you test driving the car then you should be immediately wary.

Once you're happy that the car is in decent shape, you'll want to get down to the business of securing the right price. Read up on negotiating skills and put what you learn into practice. If the deal on the table isn't close to what you're after then don't be afraid to get up and walk away. You'd be surprised how quickly both dealers and private sellers change their tune when they see a potential sale slip through their fingers; it's not unusual to receive a phone call with improved terms once you've left their premises, so don't feel pressured into paying their initial asking price.

Also be prepared to play two or more dealers/private sellers against each other if necessary. If a seller realises that you have a more attractive offer elsewhere and that you're willing to take it, they'll do all they can to give you a better deal. While the ultimate aim is to reduce the cost of the car, having a dealer offer to cover your road tax or car insurance as part of the deal can also be an attractive option. Always push for that little bit more and you'll likely end up with a much better package than what was originally offered.

About the Author

Take your time to find a good car insurance deal for you.