Buying a Used Car
Stop the panic and learn the car buying basics here
Buying a Used Car in the UK can fill people with dread, the mere thought of it sends a shiver down the spine. The prospect of having to deal with salespeople or private sellers is something that many feel daunted by but there’s no need to be, let’s go over the basics here.
Set a Budget & Consider Your Needs
Many people ignore this vital first step; don’t be one of them.
How much can you afford? would you like to pay with cash or look for some kind of finance? do you do mostly short trips or long trips? is ULEZ likely to be an issue for you? All these points should be carefully considered.
Consider your budget, including additional costs like taxes and insurance.
Set aside a "rainy day fund" for unexpected expenses (perhaps keep back 10% of your total budget to cover you when things go wrong). Assess your transportation needs, such as commuting or accommodating a growing family.
If you do mostly short journeys then maybe don’t get a diesel - they don’t like short runs!
Fuel efficiency and safety features should also be considered.
When you do find a car you’re interested in, do a quick Google of its “common faults” so you know what to look out for and perhaps the right questions to ask.
A great place to start your search is at AutoTrader; it’s the largest used car platform in the UK.
Buying from a Motor Trader / Dealership
One of the significant advantages of buying from a professional motor trader is the level of service and expertise they provide. These traders have extensive knowledge about the cars they sell and can offer valuable information and advice to buyers. Whether it's helping you choose the right car based on your needs or providing insights into the car's features and performance, their expertise can be invaluable. Additionally, they often have a network of financing and insurance options available to assist buyers in securing the best deals, although it's worth noting that the terms may not always be the most competitive.
Another benefit of purchasing from a professional motor trader is the level of transparency and accountability they are held to. Unlike private sellers, these traders are regulated by the UK government and are required to abide by specific rules and regulations. This means that buyers can have more confidence in the car they are purchasing, knowing that the trader has provided accurate information about the car's condition and history. The accountability of professional traders can offer peace of mind and help ensure a more secure transaction.
When buying from a motor trader in the UK, it's essential to understand your rights as a consumer. The Consumer Rights Act 2015 provides certain protections. If a fault renders the purchased car unsatisfactory, unfit for its intended purpose, or not as described, buyers have the right to reject it within the first 30 days. From 30 days up to six months, buyers are entitled to a repair, replacement, or refund if a fault arises. During this period, the law assumes that the fault was present at the time of purchase, unless the seller can prove otherwise. After six months, the burden of proof shifts to the buyer to demonstrate that the fault existed at the time of delivery.
It's worth mentioning that under the Road Traffic Act 1988, selling a motor vehicle or trailer in an unroadworthy condition is prohibited. This legislation ensures that the vehicles sold by professional motor traders meet basic safety requirements.
Look for traders with a good reputation and read reviews and testimonials from previous customers. Additionally, thoroughly inspect the car before finalising the purchase and don't hesitate to ask the trader any questions you may have about the car's condition and history. It's recommended to obtain written responses for added peace of mind.
Many professional motor traders in the UK offer warranties on their vehicles, providing added protection against unexpected costs. These warranties can cover repairs and provide assurance in case any issues arise after the purchase. Checking the details of the warranty and understanding its coverage can be extremely beneficial.
It's important to note that buying from a professional motor trader may come with higher prices compared to private sellers. This is because traders have significant overhead costs and aim to make a profit. However, these higher prices often come with the advantages of expertise, transparency, and accountability.
Buying a used car from a private seller
This can be an attractive option due to the potential for lower prices and more personalized information about the car's history. Private sellers are often more open to negotiation and can provide valuable insights into the car's condition. However, it's essential to proceed with caution and be aware of the risks involved.
One of the significant advantages of purchasing from a private seller is the potential for a lower price. Unlike professional traders, private sellers are not running a business and may be more willing to negotiate on the car's price. This can be an opportunity to secure a good deal and potentially save some money.
Private sellers often have a personal connection to the car and can provide detailed information about its history. They may be able to share insights about the car's maintenance, repairs, and any noteworthy incidents. This firsthand knowledge can help you make a more informed decision about the condition and reliability of the vehicle.
Buying from a private seller also allows you to avoid the pressure often associated with dealerships. You can deal directly with the owner, ask questions, and inspect the car at your own pace. However, it's crucial to exercise caution and take certain steps to protect yourself.
Unlike professional traders who may thoroughly inspect and prepare their cars for sale, private sellers may not be aware of or disclose certain problems. It's essential to conduct a thorough inspection of the car, including the engine bay, interior, and bodywork. Asking specific questions about maintenance and repairs can also provide valuable insights.
Obtaining a vehicle history report can further verify the car's history and identify any potential issues. These reports can highlight previous accidents, mileage discrepancies, or outstanding finance on the vehicle. They serve as an additional tool to assess the car's condition and make an informed decision.
Another risk associated with private sellers is the lack of legal protection. Unlike professional traders who are regulated by the UK government, private sellers may not offer the same level of accountability. In case of any issues after the purchase, there may be limited recourse available. It's important to gather all necessary documents, including the V5C logbook and MOT certificate, to ensure a smooth and legal transaction.
It's crucial to be vigilant about scams when buying from private sellers. Scammers may create fake advertisements or provide fraudulent documents to deceive buyers. Thoroughly researching the seller and the car, checking the information provided, and being wary of deals that seem too good to be true can help avoid falling victim to such scams.
Checking the condition of a used car
There are several things to keep an eye out for to ensure the mileage on the car you’re interested in.
The MOT history of the car should show a consistent increase year after year in most cases, you may notice a change in annual mileage once a new owner took over the car or during the pandemic but if look for irregularities in the usage pattern. Many clocked cars show very few miles added at each MOT for the past few years.
Beware of cars that have done 99.500 miles or 49,500 miles – the classifieds are littered with cars that have done just a fraction under a big search filter limit; it may be a coincidence of course but there are just so many that it seems a little fishy.
Beware of cars with no service history or a service book with stamps but no receipts or invoices. Take the mileage shown on the odometer with a pinch of salt.
Always check a car’s MOT history, you can check this for free at https://www.gov.uk/check-mot-history or get this information as part of a good Vehicle History Check service.
This is why you don’t ever trust any website or dealer that says “HPI Clear” or shows a green tick.
Always get a proper History Check (yes, always)
When purchasing a used car in the UK, obtaining a Vehicle History Report (VHR) is crucial for making an informed decision. A VHR provides valuable information about the car's past.
A VHR can be obtained from various providers in the UK, offering a detailed account of the car's history, such as previous owners, MOT history, mileage records, outstanding finance, theft reports, write-off status, import history, taxi usage, accident history, VIN number check, and salvage auction records.
Choosing a reputable provider for your VHR is essential. Not all providers offer the same level of accuracy and completeness - some of the biggest names in the business are actually some of the worst offenders here.
We always use Vcheck for our history reports, the video below explains why! “HPI CLEAR” MEANS NOTHING!
Do not skip the vehicle history check step or rely solely on green ticks or the phrase "HPI Clear" on websites. Investing around £10 in a proper V-Check report can potentially prevent costly mistakes and save thousands of pounds in the long run.
The test drive
Test driving a used car is perhaps the most crucial step in assessing a car’s condition and determining if it's the right choice for you. During the test drive, there are several key aspects to pay attention to that can help you make an informed decision.
To begin, before even starting the car, feel the bonnet. Is the engine already warm? This could indicate that the owner warmed it up in preparation for your arrival, but it's also worth considering if the car struggles with cold starts.
When you start the car, pay attention to how it responds. Does it start up smoothly or hesitantly? Listen for any unusual knocking, squeaking, or tapping noises that may indicate potential issues.
During the test drive, focus on how the car handles. Check the brakes, steering, and suspension to ensure they are functioning properly. Listen for any abnormal noises or vibrations and observe how the car accelerates, brakes, and handles. Keep an eye out for excessive smoke from the exhaust during idle or harsh acceleration. Also, notice if the car pulls to one side when driving normally or during hard braking.
For a more accurate assessment, drive with the stereo off and the windows up for a while, and then try with the windows down. Concentrate on what you feel and hear from the car during different driving conditions.
If the car has a manual gearbox, ensure that the clutch performs smoothly, and the gears shift without jerkiness or juddering. If it's an automatic transmission, take the car up to temperature and test the gears in different settings, observing for any jerkiness or sluggishness. Make sure the automatic transmission has been serviced according to the manufacturer's schedule.
It's also important to test the car in various driving conditions, such as on the motorway, in stop-and-go traffic, and during tight turns. This will give you a better understanding of how the car handles different situations and help identify any potential issues.
If possible, have a trusted mechanic or knowledgeable person inspect the car before making a final decision. A professional can identify hidden problems and provide an unbiased assessment of the car's condition.
When considering a used battery electric vehicle or hybrid vehicle, battery maintenance is crucial. While battery malfunctions are rare, they do lose efficiency over time, resulting in a shorter driving range. Replacing a battery pack is expensive and should be done by specialists.
To assess the battery life of an electric vehicle, you can reset the trip computer, fully charge the battery, and check the estimated range on the car's computer. If the estimated range has significantly decreased compared to its original rating, this indicates a decrease in battery capacity. However, it's important to consider external factors like temperature and driving habits that can affect the estimated range.
For more detailed information on battery health, consider consulting main dealerships or independent electric car specialists who can use specialized software for a comprehensive diagnosis. Also check to see if the battery has any remaining manufacturer's warranty, which is often separate from the main vehicle warranty.
By conducting a thorough test drive and considering the specific factors related to battery electric vehicles or hybrids, you can make a well-informed decision when purchasing a used car.
Scammers
The world is full of them and the automotive world seems to have more than its fair share. My YouTube channel highlights lots of these scams but just remember one key thing - if it seems too good to be true it pretty much always is!
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Buying a Used Car in the UK : Avoid The Scams & Find The Best Deals by Jim Starling