Purchasing A Car: Things you Auto Know!
Every once in a while we decided to switch things up. For some switching it up may include a change of scenery, i.e. going on holiday or going out to that popular new club instead of going to your local or even buying a new car. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with splashing out on a new car, after all a car is one of the most practical treats that you could possibly purchase.
A car, whether new or used is so much more than just a mode of transportation around the city. A car can and will say a lot about you, be it true or false, it’s the impression that people on the outside will be get. Your car can tell people where you’re coming form, where you’re going and what kind of lifestyle you’re living.
In this day and age, car advertising is extremely psychological. Clever marketing makes the receiver re-evaluate their current image, status, self-esteem that is perceived by others. Marketers consciously overlook rational issues that influence your car buying decisions, like cost, depreciation, safety and reliability and heavily emphasis why you need that particular car in your life.
Before you’re completely spellbound by the shiny new bells and whistles presented to you by the dressed to impress smooth talking showroom salesman, carefully assess the advantages and disadvantages and see which one outweighs the other. If you agree with several of the disadvantages listed below, you may want to contemplate buying a used car before taking any final action.
Advantages
- Newest model
- Only owner
- Latest license plate
- Customisable
- Clean state – no history
Disadvantages
- Significant depreciation
- Expensive
- A number plate is only ‘new’ for a few months
- Pay for extras
- Spend more than necessary – you can buy the same model for cheaper on the used market
Purchasing a formerly owned car is ordinarily a smart way of reducing the cost associated with driving. Nowadays, most cars are built with higher quality standards so that second-hand no longer means second-rate.
If you decide to purchase a ‘nearly new’ model, you will basically acquire a car of the same quality and model as a brand new motor, but for hundreds or even thousands of pounds less.
When it comes to Purchasing a car, new or used, the verdict ultimately comes down to what works best for your lifestyle and budget. So whatever you decide, be prepared to take time out to educate yourself about the market. This includes reading reviews and looking around for the best deals and comparing prices.
Used Car: Check List
If you’re still reading this you must be leaning towards the idea of purchasing a used car and I’m sure that you know by now just how overwhelming and time consuming purchasing a new car be, let alone a used on.. There are numerous things that can make hunting for used cars a discouraging experience; there are countless things to examine prior to exchanging payment. However one vital aspect is the physical assessment.
Below are a few general pointers on what to check for on a used car. Before you start make sure the car is on level ground before carrying out an inspection.
- Take note of any damage to the exterior
Look at the paint job of the car, taking note of any scratches, dents and rust spots.
- Check the car boot
The car trunk should not show any sign of rust, or water entry due to cracks or holes. Wear inside of the trunk indicates usage of the car.
- Check under the hood of the car
Any indication of dents, damage or rust can all be signs that the car was either poorly taken care of or damaged.
- Check the hoses and belts
Neither should have cracks and the radiator hoses should not be soft.
- Check the interior
Get inside the car and inspect the upholstery of the seats and for any damages such as tears, rips and stains.
- Check the odometer of the car for the mileage
The mileage on this meter indicates the car’s age.
- Check the service history
Ideally, the current owner should have kept a record of the times when the car needed servicing and should be willing to show you this information.
- Inspect the engine
Look for any dark brown oil stains; this will indicate if there is a leak which could potentially result in an expensive future repair.
- Tires: should be matching and evenly worn
Inspect the surface of the tire for feathering (bad alignment). Incorrect alignment can be caused by worn steering/suspension.
- Test drive the car before making any final decisions
This is perhaps one of the greatest ways to identify the working condition of the car.
The substantial disadvantage to purchasing a used car is the risk. There is always a certain level of risk when buying an untrustworthy car that will cost you even more money than you predicted in repair and maintenance costs. There is also the threat of ending up with a stolen vehicle or a write-of, risk of being ripped off. However risks can be minimised and prevented, provided you’re aware of them.
Overall, buying a used car is much safer than it used to be, provided you use credible sources. Second hand prices, first rate quality.
