Buying A Used Car: The Ultimate Guide

Buying a used car could save you a fortune over a brand-new model, making it easier for you to afford your next car. However, there are risks involved. Some of these include the vehicle’s previous condition and service history, meaning that buying a used car can sometimes be an overwhelming experience.

Whether it’s your first time buying a used car or if you’ve done it many times before, we’ve got you covered with this complete guide on how to buy a second-hand car. This will give you all the confidence you need to buy your next used car, and get the best deal for it, too.

Questions to ask when buying a used car

Visual inspection checklist: What to check when buying a used car

Before you even consider test driving your used car, we recommend viewing it in the dealership in clear weather and bright lighting from all possible angles. This will enable you to catch any dents, scrapes, or any other issues the car might have, so you can ensure the car’s condition is reflective of the seller’s description.

At Busseys, these checks will always come as a prerequisite, which means that you’ll only need to carry out these checks when you’re buying from a private seller.

When carrying out a visual inspection of your car, some important things to check and questions to ask include:

Dents and scratches on the wheels and bodywork:

With a used car, minimal dents and scratches are acceptable. These can be fixed easily through our maintenance and repairs service, and can give you a good opportunity to negotiate.

Mileage:

Does the mileage reflect the age of the used car? To find out if the car has good mileage, a good rule of thumb is to multiply its age by the yearly average of 10,000. If your car’s mileage is larger than the average of 10,000 per year, it’ll be worth taking a closer look at its service history.

Tyres:

Kicking your tyres can help you spot any signs of wear or potential damage. If there’s excessive side-to-side movement, this can be an indicator of poor ball joints. It’s also essential to check the tyre tread depth using a 20p coin. Insert the coin into the grooves of the tread – if the outer band is hidden, your tread depth is within the legal limit of 1.6mm. However, if the band remains visible, your tread may be too low, and a professional inspection may be needed. Additionally, if the tread is above 3mm, you’ll have to consider replacing them soon – and any additional costs required to do so.

Electrics:

Thoroughly check all electrical parts of the car, including your windows, lights, and even radio. These are all easy to repair and can even give you more room for negotiation.

Windscreen:

With windscreen cracks within a driver’s eyeline sometimes resulting in the vehicle failing its MOT test, it’s important that these are replaced before you invest in buying any used car.

Safety:

Are seatbelts and airbags working as they should, and do the locks work properly?

If buying a used car from a trusted dealership like Busseys, these things will always be checked by our expert technicians, to ensure maximum safety of your vehicle.

Accident Damage checks

Panel gaps:

If you’re seeing large gaps between panels or discrepancies in panel colour, this could be an indicator of a badly repaired vehicle after a car crash.

Paint:

Is the paint finishing consistent across all areas of the car? Are there any signs of paint spray on window seals, handles and welding?

Mechanical checks

Welding:

Be sure to check the boot of the used car and under the bonnet and look for signs of unusual looking welding. Is there rust under the bonnet? Are there signs of damage or repair like mismatched counterparts?

Fluid levels:

Check all fluid levels under the bonnet. Be sure to look under your oil cap, together with your brake and power steering fluid for any signs of oil leaks. If your oil, brake and power steering fluid levels are too low, this can sometimes indicate poor maintenance from previous owners. Equally, a milky, mayonnaise-looking substance under the oil cap could signify gasket failure.

If you’re still unsure on how to check these or just want a second opinion for peace of mind, we’re always here to help you inspect your vehicle.

Used car test drive checklist

Once you’ve completed these visual checks, it’s now time to test drive the used car. Regardless of your experience with cars, this will help you to understand how the car operates on the road and how everything feels behind the wheel. Some key things to check include:

Check the engine:

How does the car start? Does the engine sound choppy, or does it run smoothly? It’s a common tactic for car salesmen to turn the radio on during a test drive, so be sure to turn this off to really listen to the engine – a rough and noisy-sounding engine can sometimes be an indicator of neglect.

Suspension and handling:

Every car is built differently, with some cars offering better suspension and handling than others. Does the car veer from side to side? If possible, a top tip is to test the car on different roads, from the motorway to city and country roads.

Clutch function:

If the car has a manual transmission, pay attention to the clutch’s functionality. Does it engage smoothly without any difficulty or unusual noises?

Brakes:

Check the brakes, and handbrake too. Does it stop nicely in a straight line, or does the car pull to one side?

Functionality:

Does it fit in your parking space? Does the boot provide enough space to carry everything you need? Think about interior spaces, too – how comfortable are you behind the wheel? If you’re buying a family car, is it easy for all passengers to fit comfortably?

What to look for when buying a used car: Document Checklist

Once you’ve got a few models in mind, it’s important to know what else to look for before buying a used car. Alongside your visual checks, you should also be looking for the right paperwork, too.

This ensures that your transactions are legitimate, and that the car is as safe as can be. This is especially important if you’re buying privately, where you don’t have the same legal protection as you would when buying from a dealership.

Vehicle Registration Certificate (V5C)

A V5C – commonly known as the vehicle registration document or logbook – is the most important document you should have as a vehicle owner, regardless of whether you’re buying or selling a vehicle.

While it doesn’t act as direct proof of ownership, it serves as a vehicle registration certificate and states the name and address of its registered keeper. A V5C is a physical document issued by the DVLA to show who is responsible for registering and taxing the vehicle. Before buying a used vehicle, be sure to ask the following questions:

Can the seller show you the original copy of the V5C document?

Without this, the car cannot be taxed correctly. Make sure you’re checking for spelling errors to ensure this hasn’t been tampered with.

Does the make, model and license plate of the used car match the ones listed in this document?

Does the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN number) match the VIN on the vehicle?

This can be found on the car’s dashboard or windscreen but can vary depending on the model. To further ensure the car’s legitimacy, be sure to check for any signs of scratches on glass or any other signs of forgery.

Does the name of the registered keeper match the name of the person you’re buying the car from?

How long has the seller owned the car? How many previous owners has it had?

Details of previous ownership are included in the V5C, to give you better insight into the car’s history.

MOT and service history checks

An MOT test refers to an annual test of vehicle safety to ensure that your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards. This can be useful to look out for, particularly when buying a used car (even more so, if the car is over 3 years old).

Checking if a used car has a valid MOT can be done easily, by using this Government tool here.

As an extra bonus, checking the car’s service history through its service book could prove to be incredibly useful, too – especially if this is something that the seller can provide. This will give you a clear idea of how well the car has been looked after, as well as any hidden discrepancies in quality.

At Busseys we offer vehicle servicing, MOTs and repairs for your vehicle, so you can rest assured that your next used car is as safe and reliable as it can be.

How to pay for the car

When you’ve found your ideal used car and are ready to make a purchase, understanding your payment options is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of common payment methods to help you decide the best approach for you:

Cash

Paying for your used car in cash is often the simplest method, avoiding the need for finance agreements and interest payments. This can sometimes give you more negotiating power, especially with private sellers who may prefer immediate payment. However, you should ensure you have sufficient funds saved up and consider the impact on your savings.

Financing Options

Many dealerships, including Busseys, offer financing options to spread the cost of your car over several months or years. This can make it easier to afford a higher-quality vehicle without depleting your savings.

Arranging tax and insurance

Lastly, you’ll need to arrange vehicle tax and insurance. In the UK, vehicle tax is mandatory and can be arranged online through the DVLA website. You’ll need the car’s registration number and a valid MOT certificate if the vehicle is over three years old.

Car insurance is also legally required in the UK. Shop around for the best rates and coverage options. Consider factors like comprehensive vs. third-party coverage, and make sure the policy meets your needs.

Tip: Compare insurance quotes online and take advantage of discounts for features like no-claims bonuses.

Tips for buying a used car: Getting the best deal

When it comes to purchasing a used car, there are several strategies you can employ to secure the best deal, regardless of where you choose to buy.

Firstly, do your research:

Take the time to explore different dealerships, both online and offline, to compare prices and inventory. This will give you a better understanding of the market value for your desired car and help you negotiate a fair deal.

Don’t be afraid to negotiate:

Whether you’re dealing with a dealership or a private seller, there’s often room for negotiation in the used car market. Being well-informed about the car’s condition, mileage, and market value will give you the confidence to negotiate a better deal.

Timing is important:

Considering the timing of your purchase can also be helpful. Visiting dealerships towards the end of the month or quarter, when sales targets may be a factor, could enhance your chances of securing a more favourable deal.

Consider part exchange:

Lastly, don’t overlook the option of part exchange. If you currently own a car, trading it in can simplify the buying process and potentially save you money. Research the value of your current vehicle beforehand to ensure you’re getting a fair trade-in offer.

At Busseys, we provide you with the option to build your own deal, allowing you to personalise your purchase by including a part exchange and tailoring the finance to suit your specific needs.

Regardless of where you choose to buy from, remember that with thorough research, strategic negotiation, and an understanding of the market, you can find the best deal on a used car that meets your requirements.

Warranties and Aftercare

When purchasing a used car, ensuring that you have adequate warranties and aftercare services can provide peace of mind and financial protection. Understanding what is covered under a warranty and what aftercare options are available will help you maintain your vehicle’s longevity and reliability.

Understanding Used Car Warranties

A used car warranty provides coverage for certain repairs and faults that may arise after purchase. These warranties can vary depending on whether you buy from a dealership or a private seller.

At Busseys, we offer comprehensive warranties on our used vehicles to protect you from unexpected costs. Our warranties typically cover essential components such as the engine, transmission, and electrical systems, ensuring that your vehicle remains in top condition.

When considering a warranty, ask the following questions:

• What components are covered, and for how long?
• Are there any mileage limitations?
• Does the warranty cover both parts and labour?
• Can the warranty be transferred if you sell the car?

Aftercare Services

Beyond warranties, aftercare services play a crucial role in keeping your used car running smoothly. Regular maintenance and servicing will not only improve the car’s performance but also help retain its value.

Busseys provides a range of aftercare services, including:

• Servicing & Maintenance – Scheduled servicing to keep your vehicle in peak condition.
• MOT Testing – Ensuring your car meets road safety and environmental standards.
• Repairs & Replacements – From minor fixes to major repairs, our skilled technicians are here to help.
• Courtesy Services – We offer pick-up and delivery options for your convenience, as well as courtesy cars to keep you mobile while your vehicle is being serviced.

Why Choose a Dealership with Strong Aftercare Support?

Buying from a reputable dealership like Busseys means you not only receive a well-maintained used car but also gain access to excellent aftercare support. Our team of experts is here to assist with any issues, and all purchases come with our peace of mind guarantee, ensuring you enjoy a smooth and stress-free driving experience.

By choosing a used car with a warranty and reliable aftercare services, you can drive confidently, knowing that your investment is protected.

Get your next used car with Busseys

Buying a used car doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right knowledge and careful consideration, you can find a reliable vehicle that meets your needs and budget. Remember to conduct thorough research, ask the right questions, and always inspect the car and its documentation before making a purchase.

Here at Busseys, we pride ourselves on providing a seamless and stress-free car buying experience. Whether you’re looking for a specific model or need guidance in finding the perfect car, our experienced team are here to help.

Plus, we source any car – simply provide your requirements through our enquiry form, and we’ll do the rest to find you the exact vehicle you’re looking for. With our extensive range of financing options and the ability to part exchange your current vehicle, we make it easier than ever to drive away in your dream used car.

Discover our extensive range of used cars, from used small cars, to used SUVs, estate cars, family cars, electric cars and more.