How to buy a good used car

 

Buying a used car is always a risk, right? I mean, you could be buying a car with mystery starting problems or an MOT that reads like a court settlement. Many drivers like to refer to the term ‘Bangernomics” when it comes to picking up a used car on the cheap. Of course, you expect some complications will arise but when it comes to buying a used car in the right condition, make sure you follow the list below to make sure your new car fits the Bangernomics specifications;

Tune Your Senses

If you are buying your first used car, whether you are a new driver or somebody who has had the benefit of company cars for years, then you will need to get used to what you need to know pretty quickly. Use your eyes from now on to look at every car you bypass, don’t just have a quick glance, and really look at them!

Try and come up with a rough estimation in your head of what you would pay for that car, and see how close you were when doing some research. Listen out for cars driving past you, do they sound like they are in good condition?

How to buy a good used car 

Buy the Best

Even when going for a used car, you can still get some cracking deals – there is no excuse for leaving a showroom with a scrapheap! Try and use condition as your main filter, try and avoid getting too caught up in the mileage of the car until you find a few which are in great condition to compare against one another. Check the doors and the overall condition of the car. You might not be looking for something that looks outstanding, but you want something functional.

Also, make sure that it has an MOT and preferably has tax for a few months. Check for any damage both inside and out, and make sure that the car performs as great as it looks. Take somebody with you who has a rough idea of what these things should look like.

Check the Components

You might not be a mechanic, but a quick look underneath should give you a rough idea of what is good and what isn’t. Look for any rot around the bulkhead especially, and look at the oil by taking off the dipstick.

It should be clean, and have a honey-ish look to it, and it should have no bubbles in it, too. Check the oil filter, and ensure it is clear of any deposits or damage. Finally, check the radiator cap – is there any rust or damage? If so, leave look elsewhere. You are looking for a clean and professional looking inside of the bonnet which is clear from any leakage or damage.