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Apart from the price and any finance deals a new car will be the same no matter which dealership you go to, however buying a used car is much more complicated.
The first thing you must do is your research, decide on your prefered make, model and age and check on Autotrader and the Parkers guide to find out the 'going rate' for it. You can also have a look at some forums for common faults and general information about the car e.g. If it is a special edition what does this mean?
Now that you know what you are looking for and have a good idea of the price you can start looking for potential cars, try the classified section in your local newspapers, the autotrader both printed and online, also try looking online at some trade websites. The abbreviations can be confusing but there is an abbreviation code on sheilas wheels website (http://www.sheilaswheels.com/helpful_resources/abbreviations__acronyms/abbreviations__acronyms.html).
The car's description will normally cover the basics but save yourself a trip and ask the seller all the questions you can on the phone:
What is the mileage? This will give a general indication of wear on the engine. Note: Average mileage is 10 - 11,000 per year, low mileage is 5 - 6,000 miles per year.
Age of the Car? This can be worked out using the number plate if necessary - e.g. '53 plate is mid year 2003, '03 plate is early 2003.
What is it's condition? e.g. good, very good, worn, pristine.
Full service history? This will give you an indication of whether the car was looked after it also makes you aware of any problems the car may have.
Any accidents? If the car has been in any accidents there is the possibility it may effect safety, performance or generally the value of the car.
Number of owners? If the car is older you would expect more owners, however if the car is only a few years old and has a number of owners this may raise a question about the condition or performance of the car.
Security on the car? There a number of options for car security, immobilisers, manufacturer alarms, cat2 alarms, cat1 alarms and trackers on the car. Anything replaced? If the engine or gearbox has been replaced it can show a lack of maintenance or that the car has been badly treated which may also effect the suspension.
Taxed and Mot'd?
If you are satisfied with the answers to your questions then take a trip to see the car. You should ask the reason for selling, this will give you an idea of how fast they want to sell and whether they would take an offer for it. If you find a car you are very interested in you should perform a HPI check, this will tell you if there is any outstanding finance on the car, or if it has been written off in the past. This will cost about £20 so save this for the car you are really interested in.
Top tip: Don't buy the first thing you see.
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