Pre-Owned Cars for Sale

For many, one of the many pre-owned cars for the sale is their solution. If you want to drive recent, quality brand without paying the price of a brand-new car, a second-hand car is a great option. If you have not bought pre-owned before, you might be hesitant and that is understandable. Buying from a dealership offers some peace of mind. Private sales are riskier. That aside, there are a few things you can look out for to ensure that you make a wise decision. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right one from amongst all the pre-owned cars for sale.

Check for Exterior Damage

When taking a closer look at the various pre-owned cars for sale within your price range, make sure that you check the outside of the vehicle for any noticeable damage. This can be seen in a number of ways. Here is what to keep an eye out for:

·         Inconsistent panel gaps.

·         Mismatched paint (view the car outside in daylight).

·         Check to see the lights and lenses all match.

·         Check paintwork for scratches, nicks, or cover-ups.

·         Check for rust or bubbling paint.

Check the Details

After you have checked the exterior of the vehicle for physical damage, check the small things. Most pre-owned cars offered for sale will resell easily if they have a service history. Do not buy a second-hand car without one. Ask to see the vehicle’s service history to check if it has been for every compulsory service and then for annual services thereafter. The mileage is also quite important. If a vehicle is in good condition with high mileage, it could be that it has been very well taken care of. It could also mean that some fix-ups have been done to sell the vehicle quickly.

Get in and Drive

While you might have no mechanical or technical knowledge of a car’s engine and how it works, the test drive can tell you a lot. Make sure that, when you test drive the car, the radio is off and you are listening closely. Any rattles, gurgles, chatters, knocks, bangs, clacks, or unusual sounds should be noted and queried. Make sure that there is no smoke when you start the car or accelerate and get a general feel for the way the car drives and handles the road. Test the brakes and ask whether the car has recently been serviced. If you do not get a good overall feeling from the car, there are plenty other pre-owned cars for sale to choose from. Walk away.

Do Not get Stuck with a Lemon

Being stuck with a lemon is something that will not just be frustrating, but can be costly too. Looking at pre-owned cars for sale at reputable car dealerships is the best way to ensure that you do not buy a car that has hidden problems. If you would like to purchase a pre-owned car with confidence, we welcome you to consider our range at Atterbury Motors in Pretoria. Give us a call or send us an email for more advice and assistance today.