How to Buy A Used Cars

Buying a used vehicle for the first time may seem intimidating.

There are a number of things to look for and be aware of when buying a used car. To make things easier for you, we’ve put together a guide for you. If you take the time to carry out a visual check, mechanical check, research the vehicle’s history and make sure that the proper documents are available, the whole experience will be painless.

The Visual Check

When performing a visual check always:

• Look for rust or water damage. Check the underside of the car as well.
• Look for offset doors, fenders, or uneven lines. This could mean that there has been damage to the frame.
• Look for cracks and differences in paint colour. This could indicate that the vehicle was in an accident.
• Look for dents or scratches.
• Always speak up about anything you find and try to negotiate a lower price because of them or see if you can have them fix it before you agree to purchase.

The Mechanical Check

Check the fluids first:

• Make sure the coolant is clear and that the transmission fluid isn’t black or oily.
• Check the oil to make sure it’s not milky or frothy, and that the brake fluid is no darker than the colour of tea.
• Check underneath the engine to see that there are no leaking fluids and check the belts for any cracks.

You should also be aware of new parts. If you test drive the car, request that the seller drive while you travel as a passenger:

• Turn off any music, and confirm that there are no strange noises or rattling.
• Observe the steering wheel to ensure the alignment is correct.

Research Vehicle History

When buying a used vehicle, it’s a good idea to run a vehicle history report.

• Ask to see the service book as well as any repair invoices and receipts.
• Check that the seller’s identity and the registration information match to confirm that the vehicle is not stolen.

Necessary Documentation

Make sure you have the needed documents to register the vehicle should you choose to buy it.

You’ll need:

• An I.D.
• The Vehicle Registration Certificate in the seller’s name
• A Roadworthy Certificate, if the current Registration Certificate is older than six months
• Proof of Purchase
• A valid driver’s License
• The application form for Registering and Licensing a Motor Vehicle (RLV)
• The registration fee itself

Choose a Reputable Dealer

Most importantly, remember to trust your instincts. If something doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t, so don’t be afraid to walk away. Also, always handle private transactions from a safe environment such as a bank. This way, no one has to carry large sums of money on their person, and all the money can be verified and deposited at the time of the transaction. Buying a used car doesn’t have to be a negative experience. Armed with the right information, you can buy your next dream car with confidence.