How to Buy a Car

Buying a car is an exciting time, whether it’s your first or fifth. There are always things to consider when purchasing a new vehicle. Please see below a few tips and advice on buying a used or new car with AutoVolo.

Buying a new car

1. Buying a new car has its benefits. You will get the latest advances in safety and security, comfort, performance and fuel efficiently.
2. You may even be able to get the specification you want.
3. You’ll get a manufacturer backed warranty.
4. No MOT test for three years.
5. Remember rapid initial depreciation means that buying new comes at a price.
6. Aim to keep a new car for a least three years to spread the cost of the rapid initial deprecation.
7. Make sure your budget includes insurance, road tax and fuel cost.
8. If you would like to get the car on finance make sure you shop around for a loan as you may get a better deal than you would using the dealers finance options. For more information on car finance please click here.
9. Car tax is down to how much CO2 emissions the car generates so checking car tax rates would be advisable.
10. Make sure any special features or extras you would like are included in the price and remember your budget when adding extras or special features.
11. If you are thinking of part exchanging your car then consider the value of your car based on its age, condition and mileage.
12. You might be able to get more for your car by selling it privately.
13. Don’t hand over any money until you are satisfied with the collection or delivery arrangements.
14. Familiarise yourself with the warranty condition before signing anything.
15. Try to arrange collection for a time when the seller can go through all the cars controls and set ups.
16. Don't be pressured into buying - walk away if you're not completely happy.

Buying a used car

1. Make sure you arrange to view the car during the day when you can see the car to its full potential.
2. Try not to go to view a car on your own, but if you have to then make sure a friend or relative knows where you are going.
3. When you view the car make sure the paintwork is ok.
4. Check for leaks and battery connectors for rust.
5. Check the oil with the dipstick and make sure the oil warning light goes out as soon as the engine starts.
6. Check the tyres for wear. The legal depth is 1.6mm across the width of the tyre.
7. Make sure there is no black or blue smoke coming from the exhaust.
8. Make sure the doors and boot opens and closes smoothly.
9. Check the mileage, bear in mind the age of the car to make sure it is consistent. The average car drives 10,000 miles a year.
10. When test driving the car, check for the brakes, steering and gears.
11. Check over the documents; log book and MOT certificates and V5C registration documents.
12. Only accept original paperwork – no copies!
13. Haggle the price – the seller is expecting this and will be willing to lower the price accordingly.