Buying a used car on a budget
Yes, you can happily drive a bargain. You just need to know what to look for.
If money were no object, most of us would know exactly what sort of car we would want to buy. But sadly, the type of car we would like to buy is often very different from the one we can afford. Here are a few tips to reduce the risk of buying a lemon.
Where to look
Some auction houses have budget or end-of-life vehicle auctions, which can be a great way to source a pre-loved vehicle that may have been left as a trade-in.
However, one of the disadvantages is you’re probably going to be talking to a salesperson, rather than the previous owner who knows the vehicle inside out. Buying from a trusted dealer is also a good idea. AA Motoring’s AA Preferred Dealer Network has high quality, licensed Motor Vehicle Traders.
The Network is a select group of dealers that the AA has taken through a thorough review and selection process. The vehicles in their yards have been through a series of checks conducted by the AA and offer a level of service which the AA backs and trusts.
History report
In general, low-cost vehicles tend to be found online across classified listings and auction sites. Wherever you look when buying a car, it’s important you safeguard yourself. That’s why we recommend getting an AA History Check to ensure that there are no skeletons in the closet.
An AA History Check scans through more than three million records covering cars, vans, trucks, motorbikes, caravans and trailers. To avoid buying an insurance writeoff, stolen car or a car about to be repossessed, the AA recommends buyers invest in an AA Vehicle History Report.
What to ask
When vehicles are sold privately it is sometimes more difficult to uncover the nitty gritty about a vehicle such as economy and horsepower. In most cases you’re better off doing your own research ahead of time.
Don’t be afraid to be overly inquisitive when trying to establish an idea of the vehicle’s performance and ability. Key questions that should be asked include:
How long have they owned the vehicle?
Do they have a record of the vehicle’s service and WoF history?
Do they have a record of any previous mechanical repairs?
Research online independent road tests that were carried out when the vehicle was first sold in the country.
Aim for satisfactory
Keep in mind the vehicle isn’t fresh from the showroom, so you’re more likely to find high mileage, dents, scratches, and some interior stains. It’s important to therefore distinguish between cosmetic damage and more serious issues.
Mild bumps and bruises may be acceptable but more serious issues like rust and structural damage could haunt you on the next WoF inspection.
Mechanically, it’s a bit more difficult to determine how much life the vehicle has left. There are some basic checks you can do to reduce the risk of disappointment such as:
Inspecting when the cambelt was changed
Looking over the service history and even old WoF papers.
Look and listen
Always take the car for a test drive, cut the chat, and listen for anything out of the ordinary.
Do any suspicious lights come on when you turn the ignition switch?
Do any dash lights not come on that should?
Does the car splutter as you fire up the engine?
If you hear knocking, clunking, clanking tapping or squeaking noises as you drive, there could be something seriously wrong. Give the car a good run and trust your instinct.
Independent inspections
The AA recommends getting an independent vehicle inspection by the professionals. We understand it’s tempting to spend all your available cash on the car, but investing in aN inspection can save thousands in the long run.