17.03.2008, 20:03
Zitat: Tips for Buying a Used Car
How to avoid the pitfalls
Buying a used car can be risky. After all, how do you know if it's a 'cut–and–shut' just by looking at it? You can't, but with our help, you could land yourself a real gem instead of a lemon. Here are some tips depending on where you choose to buy.
Pitfalls when buying a used car
Clocking Where the odometer has been wound back on a high–mileage car in order to raise the asking price. Every 1,000 miles removed increases the value substantially. This is illegal.
The documents offer the only true proof that the car has been clocked. It's essential to check recent MOT certificates and compare the mileage recorded at those times. If you have any doubts, walk away.
'Cut–and–shut' This is when the remains of two or more cars, which have usually been accident–damaged and written off by insurers, are welded together, then illegally given the identity of one of the wrecks.
The cosmetic work is often outstanding, and it's usually very difficult to spot a 'cut–and–shut' from the outside.
Computerised MOT - check the MOT status online
Since the MOT system was computerised it has been possible in many cases to run an online check of MOT status and history for a car you own or are considering buying. You can also enquire by telephone by ringing the DVLA's MOT status line on 0870 330 0444
Buying a used car privately
1. Don't buy a car on 'private sale' terms if you suspect the seller might be a dealer.
2. If you call in response to an advert, say you're calling 'about the car you advertised'. If the seller has to ask which car, they may be a dealer.
3. Be wary of adverts quoting mobile numbers or numbers that appear in several ads.
4. Don't let the owner bring the car to you – view it at their home, in daylight.
5. Does the seller really appear to be the owner?
* Is it their home?
* They should be familiar with the car and its controls.
Dealers selling used cars
On the whole, a dealer with a new–car franchise for the make you're interested in is probably best, although there are many highly respected used–car dealers around.
1. Choose an established dealership with a good reputation they'll want to maintain.
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General advice for buying a used car
2. Do your homework:
* check our price guide and compare similar cars in the classifieds so you know as much as you can about the value of different cars to avoid being overcharged.
3. Never view a car in the rain, in poor light or at night.
4. Ask about the car's service history:
* check any documentation provided, including current and previous MOT certificates.
5. Insist on seeing the V5 vehicle registration document:
* the registration document shows the registered keeper and NOT the legal owner
* check the name of the present keeper
* is the seller the registered keeper?
* if not, why are they selling it for someone else?
6. Check the seller has a current MOT certificate and certificate of insurance:
* if the car is three years old or more, make sure there's a continuous series of annual MOT certificates
* see if the mileage on these certificates agrees with the service records
* double check that the mileage increases at a consistent rate each year.
7. Handle with care:
* be wary of anything that seems like a real bargain, or has a very low mileage for its age
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* if you do decide to go it alone, use our DIY inspection checklist to make sure you look the car over thoroughly.