Buying a used car
The ultimate used car buying guide
Buying a car can be a minefield, particularly if you’re not a petrolhead. This guide is packed with tips to help you find a reputable dealer and minimise the chance of nasty surprises.
Even though you can make huge savings when purchasing a used vehicle, risks can still arise, so be aware of what to look out for and what to avoid.
In this article, we’ve teamed up with The Motor Ombudsman to bring you our top tips and advice in an exclusive video which you can find below.
What is The Motor Ombudsman?
The Motor Ombudsman is the UK’s only fully impartial dispute resolution body dedicated to the automotive sector.
Besides committing dealers to higher standards than required by law, their role is to help dealers and consumers resolve any complaints or disputes fairly and without needing to go to court.
Regardless of whether you’re buying new or used, choosing a dealer that’s accredited to TMO’s Vehicle Sales Code will bring added peace of mind should something go wrong.
What to look for when buying a used vehicle
There are many key elements you should consider when purchasing a used vehicle, starting with deciding on the vehicle type and ensuring it meets your needs.
Finding vehicles online is becoming much more popular – some websites even enable you to compare different models and read experiences written by other drivers without leaving the comfort of your own home.
Finding a dealership
Browsing online when looking to buy a vehicle is the most popular option, but we recommend throughly researching your chosen dealers before committing to purchase.
The Motor Ombudsman offers a ‘Garage Finder’ directory on its website, where you can find your nearest dealers accredited to its Vehicle Sales Code of Practice.
This code commits the dealer to high standards which includes the use of transparent wording and pricing, provision of vehicle provenance checks, offering of accurate advice on warranty & finance products and provision of a full vehicle handover with all available historic documentation.
Beware of private sales
Buying a used vehicle from a private seller might be cheaper and quicker than buying from a dealership – however, be aware that the financial risks are much higher.
Firstly, you’ll have far less legal protection than buying through a dealer, so you should be careful before you agree to buy. You’re entitled to expect that the car is roadworthy unless you and the seller clearly agree it’s being bought for scrap or spares and repair.
It’s also likely that there will be no warranty included. Private sales are typically sold ‘as is’, meaning if something goes wrong after the purchase, you’ll be responsible for the repairs. This can pose a significant financial risk, especially if unexpected issues crop up soon after the sale.
Vehicle issues after purchase
After buying a used vehicle, there is a chance that the vehicle may either have an underlying fault or may begin to develop one.
If you bought it privately, unfortunately there isn’t much you can do and you’ll likely need to pay for the repairs yourself.
However, if it came from a dealership, you have a 6-month period to return the vehicle if you can prove that the fault was present before purchase.
Test drives
When buying any vehicle, it is important to test drive it before purchasing so you feel comfortable and confident when sitting behind the wheel.
Every make and model feels completely different to drive, even if they look or are said to be similar. Car buying is a big decision and a big financial outlay. A test drive is the only way to make sure you’re 100% happy with your decision.
The importance of vehicle warranty
An excellent used car warranty provides crucial protection against expensive mechanical, electrical or electronic faults which may occur after purchase.
The majority of new vehicles come with a manufacturer’s warranty, usually lasting between 3-7 years. Or if the vehicle is outside of the manufacturer’s warranty, you may be able to purchase an extended warranty, depending on its type, mileage and age.
Many dealerships offer extensions, but always check the warranty provider’s reviews and make sure they’re accredited to the Motor Ombudsman’s Vehicle Warranty Products Code to avoid disappointment when you come to claim.
