If In Doubt, Make A List

OK, it’s a new year and, with Spring approaching (eventually), you will be in the market for a change of car. It doesn’t matter how much you like your car, there comes a point when you get that automotive itch that just has to be scratched. The search begins for that satisfying replacement.

For some, this will mean a brand-new vehicle but the fact remains that these days used cars can sometimes be a more attractive proposition. As you should well know by now a new car loses a lot of its value within a very short space of time. Those who are wary of buying privately will appreciate that main dealers are always offering large selections of used cars, many of which even come with a manufacturers warranty. You pay more from a dealer but it is probably worth it for peace of mind.

The benefits of buying a used car are clear but would-be purchasers should do their homework first. For example – do not rule out the opposition. In other words, don’t be thinking that maybe this time you would like this brand or that brand without first looking at what all the brands are offering. The smart way to proceed is to not to rule out competing vehicles from other manufacturers.

Have a look at what’s trending in the motor world. If a popular type or make of car is hard to come by second-hand then it is probably because other canny buyers are getting in first. Ask the question, “What makes this model special?”

Thus it would be a plan to keep notes of things you do and don’t like about each of the vehicles you’re considering. Make a checklist. What range of mileage would be in your ballpark? What’s the consumption figures and how much does it cost to service? You could even opt for your own five star system to whittle away the also-rans.

Spend time examining your shortlist. Don’t be pressured or persuaded into a deal early by skilled salespeople (and these folk really do know how to manipulate). Look over the cars on your shortlist for any form of damage or signs of poor care. The clues are always there.

If your final selection comes with a decent warranty then fine, but if it doesn’t, ask for one. It is a good test of the confidence that dealer has in his product. A car that’s only three years old and just out of manufacturer’s warranty should be worth having another year tacked on. If you don’t ask then you won’t get. Clearly, with older cars this is less likely to happen so always get a proper inspection if in doubt. Don’t just buy a car on a whim. Think it through, write it down , plan ahead and you are much more likely to have a happy outcome – at least until that itch sets in again.