When purchasing a used vehicle, you want to be as confident in its condition as just because it’s not new off the showroom floor, it’s new to you!
Purchasing a used car can be extremely cost-efficient; you are getting the car you want at the price you want to pay.
Providing you do your due diligence, you can save yourself some serious cash and avoid buying a lemon.
3 things to consider before purchasing a used vehicle
1. Length of previous ownership
If the car has been owned by the person selling for a number of years or since new, this is a good indication that their reason for a sale is genuine. Many people sell their car when it is out of its warranty period, for no other reason than they like to purchase new cars on this schedule. This is actually a great way to grab a bargain as cars generally devalue the most in the first couple of years!
2. Check the service history
When purchasing a used vehicle you want to ensure it has been adequately maintained in line with its own manufacturer’s service schedule. If the car has full-service history from a qualified mechanic then it’s a fair sign that it has been maintained well and won’t require any mechanical work through lack of care for the car. Remember, log book servicing doesn’t have to be done at the dealership it was purchased from, as long as it is carried out by a qualified mechanic then the warranty is intact. If it is out of its warranty period, although there are no guarantees, you can still rest assured the risks of mechanical car problems are low if it has been well maintained mechanically.
3. Get a vehicle history report to show any accidents or finance
For a small fee, you can purchase a vehicle history report online which will tell you if the car has any outstanding finance or has been in any accidents. Finance is the owner’s responsibility to finance and never your responsibility to pay off.
With so many used vehicles on the market (many in as good as new condition) it makes financial sense to purchase a used vehicle rather than a new one. Do your due diligence and you should save yourself some cash and be able to enjoy that new car feeling for many years to come!
