How to buy a used car. Advice from ASDA
How to buy a used car safely
Most people are familiar with hunting for a great deal on car insurance, but if you don’t apply the same keen eye when buying a used vehicle you could be left with a hole in your pocket – or worse – a dangerous motor.
Dealer or private?
The two most common routes to buying a used car are going to a car dealer, or buying from a private owner. Buying from a dealer or garage can provide the added security of a warranty as many dealers will put their stock through safety checks before being offered for sale. But such service doesn’t come for free and can bump up the price compared to a similar car sold privately.
Whichever route you choose it is wise to carry out checks before handing over your cash. A full MoT is a good starting point – but bear in mind it only shows that the car was roadworthy on the day of its test.
How to check if a car has a bad history
Before considering the condition of a car, you need to make sure it isn’t stolen, hasn’t been written off or been in any major accidents, and doesn’t have any outstanding finance agreements connected to it. A vehicle data check can answer all these questions and provide information on mileage, colour changes, the number of registered owners and whether it has been imported.
Make sure you see a car’s registration documents, and check the vehicle identification number (VIN) matches the car exactly - including the engine plate number. The person selling you the car should be the person named on the registration document.
Used car safety checklist
If you’re not confident you’ll be able to spot any tell-tale signs of wear and tear, or a badly cared for car, then consider getting an independent inspection from a qualified mechanic. Here are some of the things you, or an expert, needs to check:
Engine
Look for oil leaks, defective or damaged hoses and drive belts. Check oil and coolant for low levels or signs of contamination. If the engine has been reconditioned, ask for evidence; a bill or preferably a warranty.
Bodywork
Check the bodywork with a magnet to show up any dents touched up with body filler. Check beneath the bonnet or under the boot for welds, untidy seams or any other evidence of accident repairs. Check for rust and paint bubbles particularly on sills, wheel arches, seams, door bottoms and suspension mountings.
Electrical
Check headlights, dashboard warning lights, hazard lights, windscreen wipers, the horn and other electrical equipment, as repairs can be expensive.
If there is a stereo fitted make sure it is included in the sale and check that it works.
Interior
Ensure seatbelts show no sign of damage or wear - look for loose buckles and faulty mountings. Check door, window and sunroof seals for signs of leaks. Damp patches on the carpet could mean a rusting floor panel.
Tyres
Check the wheels and tyres - including the spare - for tread depth and damage - the grooves of the tread pattern must be at least 1.6mm deep throughout a continuous band comprising the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tread and around the entire outer circumference of the tyre. Check for any bulges or cuts in the tyre wall which could lead to a blow-out at speed.
Test drive
Always take a drive that is long enough to test the car properly on both urban and open roads. Test steering, brakes and the clutch. Let the engine idle and check under the bonnet for oil or water leaks.
Cover your motor
Make sure you are insured for your new motor. Asda have a range of motor products to make sure you’re covered. We offer car insurance, van insurance and breakdown cover. Get a car insurance quote today!
*Car insurance is supplied subject to terms and conditions and monetary limits will apply. Refer to website to see what cover is available and see the full terms and conditions.
