Firstly any used car runs the risk of being stolen and should you buy it then you still won't be the proper owner. This means that if it is later discovered that the car is stolen then you will lose it and the money you have spent on it.
Secondly, when buying a used car you need to ensure that the car does not have any outstanding finance relating to it. This simply means that the previous, or original owner, paid it off properly and fully when it was first purchased. Failure to do so may mean that the finance company may have a legal claim to the car again leaving you without a car and without the money you spent on it.
When buying a used car there are a few simple precautions that you can take to ensure that you get a legitimate car that is safe for you and your family. When you buy a car from a dealership, choose one that has a good reputation. Ask around to see what other people think of them. If buying off a private seller then use your judgement about the seller to decide whether they are trustworthy or not. If something does not seem right or the deal seems too good to be true then it probably isn't - don't buy the car and consider contacting the police.
When buying a used car always ask for proof of identity and the address of the seller, such as a driving licence. This means that if you have any problems with the car or you are asked about the seller you will be able to have their full and proper details.
Also, only buy a used car that comes with its vehicle registration document (V5), and make sure that it is an authentic document with the DVLA watermark and that it has not been tampered with. On the V5 will be the vehicle identification number (VIN) which is a unique 17-character number issued to every vehicle by the car maker, and was previously known as the chassis number. You should check the VIN on the V5 matches matches the VIN which can be found in various places on or in the car.
The VIN can be found on a manufacturer's VIN plate under the bonnet or fixed to the post between the front and rear doors; stamped on the body chassis or frame; or on an additional plate fixed securely to the top corner of the dashboard where it can easily be seen through the windscreen, known as a visible VIN. If you can't find the VIN or suspect it has been tampered with then don't buy the car and inform the police.
Finally to avoid buying a stolen or written off car, or one with outstanding finance, you can take advantage of a service offered by the RAC and AA that checks the legal status of the car. This will cost around thirty pounds but this may turn out to be a small amount compared to what you might lose if you buy a car that may later taken away from you.
Guide To Buying A Used Car
Buying a used car can be quite the challenging experience for anyone, but most women find it even more challenging. More than likely, as a woman you are not very interested in or well versed in mechanics, and this can be a problem when you are going to purchase a used car. Some car dealerships will even make it a point to take advantage of women, so women need to be prepared and knowledgeable when they go to purchase a used car.
Tip #1 - Check the Vehicle History - One thing that you can do to help you make sure you do not buy a lemon is to check out the history of the vehicle. There are several places that you can check online to make sure that your car was never in a fire or flood. Also try to get your hands on the maintenance records so you can see how well the car has been kept and any major problems that have been fixed along the way.
Tip #2 - Check with the Kelly Blue Book for the Value - It may be a bit difficult for you to know how much a car is really worth, and many salesmen will try to get you pay more than the vehicle is really worth. Before you make a deal on a particular car, make sure that you check out the Kelly Blue Book to see what the car's value actually is. If you are making a trade with your current car, then make sure you know what your car is worth as well.
Tip #3 - Have Your Financing Already Arranged - One place that many used car dealerships will get you is with the financing. Some dealerships offer their own financing, but they may not mention that they have very high interest rates and you will end up paying a great deal more for your car than if you financed elsewhere. When you are buying a car, it is usually best to hit the lots with your financing already ready from a bank or other financial institution.
Tip #4 - Comparison Shop - While it may take a bit of time, one of the best things you can do to find a great deal on a used car is to shop around. Comparison shopping will give you an idea of what cars are out there and what the prices are running. After you check out a few dealerships, you may find one that you feel more comfortable with, and you will be better prepared to get a great deal.
Tip #5 - Take a Test Drive - Never purchase a used car that you have not driven. Before you drive away in your new car, you want to be sure that you take the time to give it a test drive, and not just a little drive to the end of the block and back. Take the time to drive it in traffic, at higher speeds, up hills, and see how it stops and starts at lights. You want to be sure that you feel comfortable driving this car before you buy it.
Tip #6 - Do Some Testing - Another important thing to do before purchasing a used car is to do a bit of testing yourself. Take the time to make sure that all the electronic systems work and check out the safety features as well to make sure they are also in working condition.
Keeping these tips in mind can help you make sure that you find a car that will be serviceable for a great price. Learn your stuff, and next time you hit the used car lots, you'll be ready to do battle for a great new ride.
Both Chris Marshall & Ron Toomes are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Chris Marshall has sinced written about articles on various topics from Health, Anger Control and Credit Cards. .. Chris Marshall's top article generates over 49500 views. to your Favourites.
Ron Toomes has sinced written about articles on various topics from Used Car, Cars. Ron Toomes has been in the Automotive Business for 25 years the last 10 as a Synthetic Lubrication Executive Jobber and Web Site Owner. Ron writes articles for:
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