How to buy a used car
It is of vital importance to do some research before you buy a used or a new car.
This would allow you to gain valuable insight into the specifications of the car
you expect to buy. Hence the person who is planning to buy a car would be more informative
and would exactly know how and to what extent each model satisfies his/her expectations.
Therefore it is important to have a thorough knowledge about the car you intend
to buy. Sometimes buying a used car can be a tedious job if you are not knowledgeable
enough about the areas you should look into. Buying a used car would have merits
as well as demerits. Demerits can be minimized by following a well-framed check
list which would pave the way for a successful acquisition. a check list is also
essential to ensure to avoid missing out certain important areas. The aim of this
article is to provide valuable information for the people who intend to buy used
cars (Automobile). The following seven step process would give you some guidance
and a framework to work against for the journey of buying a used car.
1. Vehicle Research
It is advisable for you to do a bit of research which can be a great strength and
also make you more comfortable in your bargaining process. Research about the vehicle
(Model and the Brand). Get the full knowledge about the vehicle.
2. Vehicle Market Value
Find out the market rate and the second hand value in terms of market perception
sentiments. Certain brand and models will not have an attractive second hand market
value for various reasons. (Niche market – Number of buyers are lesser which invariably
drive down the price)
3. Vehicle data check
Vehicle data check is an indispensable check that you should carry out before the
purchase and is considered to be the smartest investment you’ll make when buying
a car. This check would explore information with regard to the history of the since
the first registration and the number of owners. Also this would include data by
the likes of the original specifications of the vehicle, would give an indication
of the price to be paid and outstanding finance (If Leased). Further the check would
reveal vehicle identification numbers (Engine number and chassis number) so can
match up with the numbers on the car itself when the physical inspection is carried
out.
4. Vehicle Physical Check
This is another vital check which substantiates the correctness and the reliability
of the information provided by the seller. Every piece of information can be matched
against the physical assessment of the vehicle. Although the buyer should have a
questioning mind and clarify any doubts before it becomes too late. Always throw
some queries about the vehicle and try to get the feedback from the seller. It is
advisable to get the negatives of the vehicles. (Seller would always be prepared
to tell you the merits of the vehicle but buyer should be shrewd enough to direct
some negative questions; for instance, what are the defects of this vehicle). This
way you would be getting a balanced picture of the vehicle and also this may give
an indication what are the areas you need to improve after purchasing the vehicle.
This might allow you to have an overall consideration when determining the price.
The following would be a set of guideline which could ensure everything is checked
and covered.
• Ensure the engine is cold when starting the car. This will reveal starting problems
(Cranking) or excessive smoke. If the engine is hot and running these problems will
not be apparent.
• Crouch down on each of the front wheel to see the alignment of the wheels. If
they are not in same alignment this could mean the car has confronted with an accident
or lack of proper maintenance.
• Avoid checking the car in the dark. This would make you to miss out dents, scratches,
and accidents of the car which may be a costly miss after the purchase.
• Have a look under the bonnet and the carpets. Seller might dress up the vehicle
by putting new carpets to hide any defects. If the carpets are new be vigilant to
search more.
• Make sure you check for lights, seatbelts and driver’s seat adjustments working
in order.
• Take a look at the tyres and if they are worn out bear in mind to recall when
negotiating the price.
5. Vehicle Test Drive
This is one of the most important areas of the whole process because this would
reveal actual state of the vehicle and this could be a decisive decision point to
accept or reject the offer. It is advisable to never buy a car without test driving
it.
6. Vehicle Documents
Paperwork is another important area of concern in this process. The documents should
be properly maintained without payments outstanding up-to-date. The following documents
are available and do not accept photocopies.
• Logbook
• Car’s service history
• Documents of vehicle registration number and vehicle identification number.
• Document of Tax payment
7. Payment
The final step is to settle the payment. The payment should be substantiated with
a receipt of cash from the seller with his authorized signature.
|
|
|
|
