Used Car Ni - Used Cars Buyers Guide

Welcome to the used car ni buyers guide. When you buy a used car, you should be aware that there is the potential for problems to occur.

Planning your Northern Ireland car purchase in advance can help ensure you get the best deal, plus could help you avoid falling prey to the many fraudulent operators now working in the car sales market.

Used Car Research

Once you have decided upon a car make, use a car price guide to give you an idea of cost. Also check newspaper and magazine adverts to clarify the age, model and specification you can afford. Remember to include insurance, road tax and other running costs in your budget.

Phoning the Used Car Seller

Prepare a list of questions to ask the seller. These should include:

a). Overall exterior condition

f). Last cambelt change

b). Overall interior condition

g). Vehicle registration (V5) present and in sellers name

c). MOT expiry date

h). Is the seller a car dealer?

d). Tax expiry date

i). Radio / CD player code

e). Mileage

j). All 5 tyres ok with no uneven wear?

If you are happy with what the seller has told you, arrange to view the car during daylight hours. Never agree to buy a car without driving it first. Ensure you are totally happy before buying cars Northern Ireland.

Test drive the used car

Make sure your existing insurance covers you to drive the sellers car. Take evidence of this with you.

Check all the electronic items work inside the car, including indicators, horn, radio, windows, heater, reversing lights etc.

Start the car, but before starting your journey, turn the steering wheel from one lock to the other. Ensure there is no banging or knocking.

Test the handbrake. Pull it on and gently try to drive away. If the car moves, something is wrong.

Drive on a range of different road surfaces making sure you use all the gears. Ensure each gear change is slick and smooth with the clutch pedal biting between the top and middle of it's travel. Check the gauges are all working correctly.

Listen to the engine for strange noises. Don't get distracted by the seller or radio.

Open the bonnet and check for any oil or water leaks. Check the exhaust system isn't blowing. Check the condition of all the tyres as uneven wear could indicate tracking problems or incorrect tyre pressures. Look under the car to see if there are signs of welding.

Negotiating the used car price

Take a few minutes to clarify everything and estimate any repairs or replacements that need carrying out. Reduce this cost from the sale price or price you are prepared to pay.

Ask the seller what they would take for the car. Then make a lower offer for the car. They will then decide to take your offer or make a counter offer. Don't go over the price you have decided upon. Normally a compromise is found somewhere in the middle.

Used Car Paperwork

Take time to check the V5 document and ensure the seller is the recorded keeper. If not they are not legally allowed to sell the car. Check the service history, tax disc and the MOT. Ensure everything is as it should be. And obviously make sure they are all original documents. It is worth having an HPI check to make sure any loan on the car has been paid off.

Check the registration number is correct and the vehicle identification number matches the one on the V5.

Paying for the used car

Make sure you get a receipt for any payment you make, especially if you are paying cash. Ensure that the seller and buyer have a copy of each receipt. Make sure the car's details and the seller's address is on each receipt.

Buying a Used Car at Auction

Buying a used car at auction can net you a bargain but you could also be taking a risk if you don't ensure a thorough inspection prior to bidding. Your usual legal rights may not apply if the seller issues a disclaimer, such as the term 'sold as seen' so listen carefully to the auctioneer. Some vehicles may have a short warranty if they sell over a certain amount, others will not.

Try to go as a spectator first and watch what happens, get used to the atmosphere and selling terms. Try to make sure you take somebody with you for a second opinion. A mechanic is always helpful if you are unsure what to look for.

Check the price guides and then set your limit and don't be tempted to bid any higher. The motor trade recommends buying cars between two and five years old. Check for full service history as this way you can have a better chance of guaranteed mileage. You should also ensure the car has it's paperwork present and isn't stolen.

Finally remember to arrive in plenty of time to allow you to carry out a thorough inspection of the vehicles you may be interested in buying.