Used Car Purchase 1017 Easy Steps to Buying a Second Hand Car Brought to you by Hertz

http://www.hertzcarsales.co.uk

Going to look for a used car can be daunting if you’re not mechanically

minded, but don’t be afraid to have a good look in and around the car to

make sure you peg a great deal. Here are

7tips on how avoid a lemon.

Determine Your Vehicle Needs Before you head to the field looking for your next car

you need to answer some important questions:

• What is your purpose of buying a car?Are you looking for a winter beater or heavy load carrier?

• Are you searching for all looks or something practical? Is low efficiency or high fuel efficiency important to you?

• For how long are you expecting to use your second hand car? Until you save enough for a brand new wheel or is this all you’ve got?

Determine Your BudgetIt’s important that you go over your monthly income and expenditureto determine how much you can really spend on your used car. Createa maximum and minimum limit for yourself and refine your research.

If you’re planning to apply for a finance, instead of paying cash, it’s essential to ask yourself:

How much money can you shell out each month?

Have you got money for the deposit? It will reduce your monthly expenditure.

Did you factor in monthly insurance and fuel cost?

While on the fieldIt’s quintessential that you conduct a thorough examination of the vehicle. Look for:

UNDER THE BONNET:

- Look for damaged hoses and frayed belts.

- Check that oil is smooth, clean and at correct level. Poor condition oil can be an indication of poor maintenance.

- Ensure that radiator fluid is topped up and oil-free.

BODY WORK:

-Are all of the body panels consistent? Do not purchase a vehicle if there are clear indications of a ‘cut and shut’.

- Ensure there is no sign of haphazard wielding in the boot, under the bonnet or on the door

sills.

- Check for rust and paint bubbles, especially on the sills, wheel arches, seams, doors, suspension mounting and exhaust.

- Go over the paint work and make sure it is consistent all over, and there are no major scratches or stone chips.

ELECTRICS AND INTERIORS:

- Make sure that lights, windows and in-car electronics are functioning properly.

-Check the seat belts and locks operate correctly. The car is not road legal without a working belt.

-Access the condition of the car interiors, including seats, carpets and trim.

- Look at the dashboard for illuminated warning lights. An engine management light can spell trouble.

WHEELS:

- Ensure that tire thread is at least 1.6mm. Ask if the seller is willing to fit new tires.

- Look for damage on the tire walls. Uneven wear can be a sign of tracking problems.

If the vehicle passes your first examination, take it for a test drive and bring it to a trusted mechanic for a more thorough examination.

The Paperwork Above all, ensure that the paperwork is in place. Precisely, you need to:

Ensure any relevant documents are present

and accurate. Do not purchase the vehicle

without seeing the V5C certificate.

Carry out a history check to ensure the car is

not stolen, insurance written

off or has outstanding

finance.

You’re now in for an amazing ride. But if it doesn’t turn out to be so, relax! The UK Government

protects your rights whenever you buy goods or services. Contact Citizens Advice to seek help and

advice about your consumer rights. http://www.gov.uk/browse/driving

!

Thank You!