A brief guide to buying a used car

Buying a used car is often an exciting moment, whether you’re a newly qualified driver looking for your first vehicle or you’re upgrading to something bigger. However, it can also be daunting with so much to get to grips with - from service history to mechanical function. Here, we guide you through some of the key things to look out for when buying a used car, and some important questions to ask.

Where should I buy a used car?

The first thing to consider is where you’ll be buying your car from. A franchised dealership is one of the best options, because their vehicles have undergone thorough inspections by trained technicians, and come with additional protections such as a warranty and exchange guarantee. They also offer finance options to make vehicles more affordable.

A reputable independent dealer is also a good option. Most provide mechanical and safety checks, and will offer some form of warranty for your peace of mind.

You can also buy privately, but doing so means you will have to make more careful inspections yourself before you hand over any money. You also won’t get the same protections as buying through a retailer.

What to look out for when buying a used car

When buying a used car, there are several things you should inspect:

• Bodywork - Take a look at the exterior and interior of the vehicle, and check for any dents, scratches or fabric stains. These can be addressed with the seller.
• Modifications - A dealer will inform you if modifications have been made that are outside the car’s original spec. If buying privately, ask the seller if additions have been made, as they’ll need to be declared to your insurer.
• Tyres - Check the tread depth is well within the legal limit (1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre) on all tyres. You can use a 20p piece to do this. If the tread falls below the edging on the coin, the tyres need changing.
• Mileage - Check the mileage aligns with what the seller has advertised. Again, if buying from a reputable dealer, vehicle history and mileage checks will have been carried out.

Taking the car for a test drive is a great way to check that everything is in order. Before setting off, check the lights, indicators and horn are working as expected. While driving, check the brakes are not squeaking or rattling, and listen for any unusual sounds from the engine, such as knocking. If buying from a dealership, you can address any issues with the sales advisor who accompanies you on the test drive.

A test drive also enables you to check that you like driving the car. Even if it’s in great condition, you may simply not get on with it, so it’s important to take this step.

What should I ask when buying a used car?

Whether you’re buying privately or through a dealership, you may want to ask the following questions:

• Paperwork - Ask to see the V5C (log book), MOT and service history. A dealer will gladly give you access to these documents, and a private seller should have them readily available.
• History - Ask how many owners the vehicle has had, and whether it has been in any accidents. You should also ask private sellers why they are selling the car.
• Functionality - You can ask the sales advisor or seller to demonstrate systems such as the infotainment system or cruise control settings to make sure you’re comfortable with where controls are and how to use them.
• Finance - Dealers offer finance plans to make purchase easier. Ask the sales advisor about your options if you want to fund your vehicle this way.
• Running costs - Ask about efficiency, range (on electric vehicles), maintenance costs and insurance costs, as these are an important part of vehicle ownership.

Buying a used car from York, Ward & Rowlatt

At York, Ward & Rowlatt, we make buying a used car simple and stress-free. All our vehicles are checked by our in-house technicians, and come with a minimum 12 months’ warranty and 12 months’ roadside assistance. Browse our stock online and contact us today to arrange a test drive, We’ll be happy to answer all your questions.