When it comes to buying a new car, you don’t always have to go for the latest model. Below, we’ve rounded up ten things to think about when you’re buying a used model.
1. Choose low mileage
Mileage is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a new car, and, generally, the lower the number of miles, the better condition the car will be in. If you have a choice between two cars at a similar price and condition, choose the one with the lowest number of miles.
2. Check the warranty
Some used cars may still be in warranty, so check to see whether yours is before you buy it. Doing so will save you hundreds of pounds should anything go wrong, so it makes sense.
3. Calculate replacement costs
The chances are that you’ll need to make some replacements to your used car, so consider the cost before you put down a deposit. You should be able to find replacement tyres, brake pads and other necessities online or from your local garage retailer, so it pays to shop around. If you need new tyres, for example, then consider the Tyres Salisbury section of the Wiltshire Tyres website.
4. Consider the type of car
Some cars are much cheaper to run than others, so factor this into your decision. For example, hybrid cars are often considered amongst the cheapest to run, but they can be more expensive to purchase. Make a decision based on future driving habits – will you see a return on investment if you spend more now?
5. Get a smaller car
If you want to save money on your car and your car insurance, then choose a smaller car. Generally, smaller cars are much cheaper to insure than larger models like trucks and 4x4s, so think small.
6. Buy at the right time
If you’re going to a garage to buy a used car, then think about timing. Weekends and the start of the month are the busiest periods for salespeople, so go mid-week and choose a date closer to the end of the month. The winter months are often considered the cheapest to buy a car, too, but this depends on your location and the type of car you wish to purchase.
7. Don’t part exchange
Don’t be tempted in by part exchange deals when switching cars. You’ll most likely get more money by selling your old car privately and buying your next car up-front with cash.
8. Pit dealerships against each other
If you tell a dealership that you’ve had an offer from another garage, they’ll be more likely to knock something off the cost of the model. It’s a tried and tested formula that always seems to work.
9. Haggle
You are allowed to haggle on the price of your car – especially for used models. Don’t be afraid of turning up to the garage with a fixed price, and refusing to budge until you get what you want.
10. Test drive
Just because you’re buying a second-hand car, it doesn’t mean that you can’t test drive it. Make sure that you go for a spin and check that you feel comfortable behind the wheel.