You should definitely take the car for a test drive. Drive for at least 15 minutes on different types of road.
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The AA has a checklist for what to look out for when taking a test drive. However, you can go a step further and get an independent report on the car. Independent reports are done by motoring organisations and specialist companies - call the Motor Ombudsman for advice on where to get an independent report in your area. The Motor Ombudsman is a government-backed self-regulatory body for the motoring industry. The Motor Ombudsman Telephone: Stay calm and only pay what you can afford.
The Money Advice Service has useful guidance on how to negotiate when buying a car. Consider all your options before getting finance or a loan for a car.
How to test drive and check a used car - Money Advice Service
It can be an expensive way to pay, and you'll need to make sure you can realistically afford the repayments. Read advice on getting a finance from the Money Advice Service. For more advice on whether a hire purchase arrangement would suit you read buying a car through hire purchase by the Money Advice Service.
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Our general email address is enquiries maps. Protecting your home and family with the right insurance policies Insurance Insurance help and guidance Car insurance Life and protection insurance Home insurance Pet insurance Help with insurance Travel insurance Budget planner. Pros of buying through a dealer Your consumer rights are stronger than if you buy privately. A car bought from a dealer is likely to have a warranty. Car finance options might be available, including hire purchase and personal contract payment.
The dealer will normally have inspected the car and repaired any major faults. You can negotiate with a dealer. At certain times of year you might get a particularly good deal if they are keen to offload used cars to hit sales targets. You need to know how to negotiate the best deal. The warranty offered might include restrictive clauses. Buying from a private seller Buying a used car privately can be risky because if there are problems afterwards you have less legal comeback than with a dealer.
If a seller is desperate to find a buyer you can probably negotiate a big discount.
You get to meet the previous owner. Car auctions Auctions are one of the riskiest ways to buy a used car. Live car auctions? Buyer beware! Wherever you buy a used car, make sure you: Ask lots of questions Do your research and checks Test drive the car before making a decision.
Some important things to do before you apply for a car loan
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Thank you for your feedback. Related guides Best way to finance buying a car Leasing a car When is the best time to buy a car? How to survive the pre-Christmas sales What the QuickQuid announcement means for you Cut the cost of Christmas dinner. More in 'How to buy a car' How to find the right car for your budget Car finance explained Making sure you can meet your car payments Car costs calculator Buying a car with a personal loan Leasing a car View all … articles in How to buy a car.