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?
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.
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