Things to watch out for when buying a used car

It’s important you learn how to inspect a used car before you take the plunge. Once you’re happy with your used car, why not sell your current car to us…

Not everyone has a wealth of automotive knowledge and not everyone has a mechanic friend. If you decide a used car is the way to go, ensuring the vehicle of choice is in peak mechanical and visual condition is crucial. While it’s not possible to spot everything, by following these simple pointers you could save yourself from a huge repair bill.

The first think you should do is have a walk around the car and check for any dents, scratches or off colour paint. Fresh paint on a car could indicate it has recently been repaired. If possible, try and view the car when it’s dry and in the day. Water can hide blemishes on the car and you may miss something in the dark.

When viewing the car, it’s important you check it on level ground. This can help you spot any sagging components underneath. It also makes checking the tyres easier too. The tyres should be worn evenly and be free of any feathering; this is a sign of bad alignment caused by worn steering and suspension components, frame damage or pothole damage.

When it comes to checking under the bonnet, simple things such as the hoses, belts and the engine itself can tell you a lot. Corrosion or stains could be sign of a leak. You should also watch out for aftermarket parts, while they may benefit the cars performance, they could also invalidate your insurance policy if they aren’t declared.

If the car checks out and you agree on a price, why not sell your old car to us for a great price!