Most people tend to buy a used car to avoid the high depreciation rate of a new vehicle but the car you want to buy should be closely inspected because one expensive repair can turn a "bargain" into a bad deal.
Start your search for a car with healthy scepticism. Take a friend along who is not prepared to spend a lot of money, is less excitable and more reasonable.
Four eyes also see more than two. No driver is the same and no two owners maintain their vehicle in the same way, but if you take your time and inspect the vehicle closely you will have some idea how the car was treated
Once you've made a choice, however, have the car checked by an impartial professional who will tell you all you need to know about potential repairs, odometer fraud and the overall condition of the car.
But here are a few tips for the layman:
Rule 1: Never to buy a car you have not test-driven yourself.
Knocking from the engine, a humming gearbox, worn wheel bearings, uneven braking or an exhaust in need of replacement are things you'll not notice when just looking at the car from the outside.
Go for a drive – and wind down the windows. Don't let the seller turn on the radio – it could mask suspicious sounds. The clutch is worn out if you can drive off without stalling in second gear with the handbrake on.
Rule 2: Check the car's papers and registration and confirm the seller's identification with a passport or other identity document that carries a photograph
- Is the vehicle registered in the seller's name?
- Are the chassis and engine numbers the same as those on the papers?
Ask to see the service and maintenance records. If they're not available, go buy somewhere else and absolutely do not accept any argument from the seller.
All that done? Now make a closer inspection. Worn seats and pedals are sure signs that the car has done a lot of kilometres.
Check for uneven bodywork, unmatched paint or for paint on sealing rubbers – all signs of repairs after a crash.
Lift the floor mats – signs of moisture indicate a rusty body letting in water. Check that all the electrics – air-conditioner, sunroof and windows – work then, after satisfying yourself about the cabin, take a look at the engine.
The battery should be clean; low brake fluid level could indicate trouble with the braking system.
Grab those tyres
Check all the piping, hoses and radiator for any signs of lime - that can indicate leaks. Be suspicious of a recent engine wash – it could temporarily have removed telltale water and oil leaks.
Grab each front tyre in the middle with both hands and try to shake it side-to-side – play from worn bearings will be apparent. Also check the condition of the tyres: uneven wear could indicate worn shock-absorbers or incorrect axle adjustment.
The brake discs should have no rust signs and be of ample thickness. The tyre tread should be at least three millimetres deep – and don't be shy about crawling under the car to check for oil leaking from the motor or gearbox.
Suspension seals should be dry and without signs of wear and tear. Check the full length of the exhaust system for rust – replacement can be expensive.
Finally, ask for a guarantee and a test report from a reputable testing firm. Such companies check cars thoroughly.
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