How to ensure you're not getting ripped off when buying a second hand car
Don’t go ahead buying a used car without reading this guide first. Here’s everything you need to know before any money changes hands.
Buying second-handhand car can be risky.
Its hard to tell whether a private seller - someone who you may only know from an online ad – can be trusted, or whether they’re trying to shift on a banger to an unsuspecting buyer.
(Make Sure you're not dealing with a Delboy!)
1.      Only buy from a trusted motor dealer, who has real reviews.
Look for an established firm, with trusted reviews and a good reputation. Speak to friends and family to find the right company to buy from. A lot of research can be done online from the dealers previous reviews to see how they operate and deal with customers.
2.      Do a logbook loan check or HPI check and investigate the history of a vehicle.
You can make a few different checks through the DVLA, including private history checks and MOT checks to ensure the MOT certificates aren’t false. Many companies online offer this service for as little as £2.99 per check. These checks will show you if a vehicle has any outstanding finance, is stolen or has had a previous accident.
Why should you worry about the previous owner’s finance? Because if the vehicle still has finance outstanding it could be repossessed even if it’s in your ownership.
3.      Look over the condition of the vehicle thoroughly ( we have another blog with a more in depth explanation of what you need to be looking out for) https://www.mjmotorcompany.co.uk/blog/what-to-look-for-when-buying-a-used-car
4.      Check the mileage for any unusual signs
It looks wrong then it probably is. Is it about right for the age of the car? On average a vehicle in the UK does approximately 12,000 miles a year.
If the mileage is considerably higher it could mean there is a major service due or unwanted issues. Always check the vehicle’s mileage against the DVLA Mot online checker to ensure its correct.
5.      Be wary of any sale terms
If the vehicle is sold as seen – there may be a reason behind this. However, this is the risk when buying a vehicle privately. Make sure you fully understand the conditions of the sale before you commit to buying a car. That includes the Trade-in price of your existing car and any finance agreement.
6.      Don’t be afraid to use your consumer rights
When you buy a car from a dealer, it must be of satisfactory quality, be fit for purpose its being used for, and match its description. If it doesn’t you have a right to a repair, replacement, or refund, second hand or not.