IS YOUR SECOND-HAND CAR WORTH YOUR MONEY?
Owning a car is a dream for many and if you can’t afford to buy a new one, the second-hand car is aplenty a good car could save you a lot of bucks and at the same time give you the same luxury of a brand new car. However, there are some unsaid rules you must be aware of before buying a used car. Price comes last as buying a good used car at a reasonable price is better than buying a poor car at a low cost and shelling out every month for service.
Buying an automobile always brings along doubts and dilemmas; mostly about the price tag and the priority of our favorite ones. However when it’s a used car the dilemma doubles. Here are a few tips to give you a clear picture of what you must be looking for in a used car.
PURCHASE A SECONDHAND CAR
Giving priority to your favorite cars, research a bit and do the math and reach a conclusion over the prices of used cars and pick one that fits your budget.
Identify the premium dealers who sell second-hand cars. Enquire about the dealers and their quality of service and compare the price tags of your car at various dealers. Also, make sure the registration procedures are simple and to the point.
If you are purchasing a second-hand car from a private individual then ensure that the owner has a clean driving record and that the papers are all original. Get the help of a mechanic to make sure that the vehicle doesn’t have any hidden defects. Always try negotiating the price as buyers are fewer and sellers are more.
Before you choose to buy take the car for a test drive and assure yourself that you feel good. Check for engine noises, suspension, steering control, gear shift, clutch release, and overall ride comfort. Make sure that you buy a car that you will fall in love with and not a car that you have to adjust to.
Finally when you arrive at the paperwork and payment process ensure that you get every single piece of the originals. Also a detailed registration report and slips mentioning payment received.
QUESTIONS TO ASK THE DEALER:
Accident history of the car. Had the car been involved in any accidents? If yes, what was the scale of damage? Has everything been taken care of? It would be better if you move on to another car with a clean ride history.
Purchase The Second-Hand Car
Purchase The Second-Hand Car
If the dealer displays only vehicles that have been certified fit by a qualified mechanic?
Is there a money-back option or return policy if the car doesn’t perform as claimed? Or an option to trade the car with another car of the same price range?
Does the dealer offer after-sales service? Does the dealer provide a limited number of complimentary services?
A LIST OF TECHNICAL ASPECTS YOU NEED TO INSPECT IN A USED CAR:
- The belts and hoses under the hood.
- Odometer. The fewer the number of miles the better condition the car is in.
- The transmission fluid.
- Tires. Ensure that the wheels are aligned.
- Car chassis and the exhaust system. Ensure they are not rusted and damaged.