Tips for buying a used car

Buying a used car can be a minefield and the best tactic is to not rush in. Spend a little time on self education before starting the search. Apart from whether or not the vehicle suits your needs and budget, there are issues such as road worthiness, and even whether it has been stolen to consider. There are very strong arguments for buying a second hand car. A new car typically devalues from about 35-50% as soon as you buy it. You can acquire a recent model that is only two or three years old for vastly less. This also has the benefit of assessing if the car has been well made - any build problems will have surfaced within that period.

Buying a used car: Things to know

Firstly, think about your requirements. What do you want need, and what is your budget?

• The size of a vehicle is important, particularly with the soaring cost of fuel. Consider whether you need the extra bulk, or whether a smaller vehicle will be a cheaper and more practical option.
• Safety is a key feature in the purchase of any vehicle. Have any prospective purchase thoroughly checked by an expert for safety before you buy. Do some research on makes and models; some have safety features such as multiple airbags, and some are simply a safer design. Tall vehicles like SUV's, for example, are more likely to tip than vehicles with a wider wheel base
• What will you need t your vehicle to do? Do you need something to ferry children around and do shopping, or will you want a larger vehicle to tow a trailer or caravan?
• Where will you buy the vehicle from? Dealers may offer a warranty, but check finance options carefully before accepting dealer finance. You could get a bargain from a private seller, but have the vehicle thoroughly inspected first
• Which extras are important to you? If you must have air conditioning and a cd player that works, consider these in your search

Used car: Costs involved

Decide what you are prepared to pay for a used vehicle before beginning your search. Check used car guides and the internet to find out what the type of vehicle you are interested in is selling for. Factor in on-road costs such as registration and transfer of ownership, as well as any repairs that the car you choose may need. If you need finance, investigate this first.
All vehicles now must be sold with a roadworthy, which ensures that they are basically safe to drive. This does not mean that it is reliable, so factor in the cost of a mechanic or RACV inspection before you purchase any used car. Crash damage can be hard to pick.
Once you have decided on a vehicle and had it inspected by a professional, do a title search to see if it has been stolen. The roads authority in your state will be able to check the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) against theft records.

Buying used cars: Other information

A used car is likely to be the cheapest and most practical purchase option. Taking these precautions will ensure that you get the safest and most practical car for your needs. Don't over finance, and always have any vehicle thoroughly inspected by a reliable mechanic before you buy.