How to Buy Used Cars with Minimal Risk
The high prices and immediate depreciation of new cars are two very good reasons why more people are opting to buy used cars instead. While second-hand cars offer a variety of benefits, it is still important to be smart in your choices. If you do not go into the selection process wisely, you could end up with a “lemon”. A lemon is a car that is sold with hidden damage and problems, and these can become costly in the long run.
Below are a few tips to help you make the right choice when you buy used cars:
Support Dealerships
Unfortunately, not all private sellers are trustworthy, and they can offer you a deal that is unfair or unsound. By using a dealership, you can rest assured that the vehicle has gone through a series of thorough tests to ensure that it is safe, reliable, and worth the price tag attached. If something does go wrong a few weeks or months down the line, a dealership will have a warranty or guarantee in place to ensure that you are assisted. When you buy from a private seller, there are no guarantees in place at all.
Check the Details
Too many people have been caught out by buying second-hand cars that have been stolen or involved in criminal activity. When you check out the vehicle, make sure that the details, such as the seller name, address, and VIN number match the details on the registration papers. It is also a good idea to scrutinise the service history log book to ensure that the vehicle has been taken for its regular services.
Verify the Value of the Vehicle
When buying a vehicle from a private seller, you might be paying too much. Most second-hand dealerships (such as Atterbury Motors) will offer competitive market-related prices. You can verify the actual value of the vehicle quite easily online, but you can also shop around and compare prices. You will find that most dealerships are willing to negotiate on price, even if it is just a slight negotiation.
Ask to See the Pre-Purchase Inspection Test Results
Dealerships will have put the second-hand vehicle through a series of tests. Ask to see the results of these tests, as it will reveal if the vehicle has any issues or needs repairs before you purchase it.
Where to Buy Used Cars in Gauteng
At Atterbury Motors, we pride ourselves on keeping a wide range of vehicle options for our customers to choose from. Our showroom, which is in Wonderboom, Pretoria, is easy to access, and our friendly team is always available to assist you with test drives and information on our stock. Feel free to pay us a visit or get in touch with us via email or telephone today.