How To Check Out Your New 2nd Hand Car
It is important that you check over the used car you are buying in daylight. If it is raining heavily or too dark note this fact on the sales invoice or bill of sale, stating you were unable to properly examine the car.
Ask if the car has been in an accident at any time, if the seller knows it has they have to tell you this if you ask. Walk around the car checking each panel for colour differences. Pay careful attention to the bumpers and corners on the car. Crouch down and look across the bonnet and down the sides of the car to find any dents or panel misalignments that suggest it has been in an accident you have not been told about.
All used car have snags, scuffs, tears or marks on the inside, make sure you are aware of them and that none need repairing. Remove the mats to check for damage to the carpets and for evidence of water damage. Include the boot in your examination. Whilst in the boot, check that the tool kit is complete and that the spare tyre is in good condition.
If you spot anything that suggests that the car is not as advertised re-negotiate the price or arrange for a repair before completing the purchase. It is important that if you are not 100% happy that you do not complete the transaction when buying privately. It is possible to take a private individual to court, but it is difficult and costly to get your money back. Even taking a car you are not 100% happy with from a dealer is risky. If you decide to take that risk make sure any repair agreement is noted on the sales invoice.
Compare the details of registration, and chassis number that are on the V5C with those on the car, also check the owners details. Complete the new owner section on the V5C form and keep your part. Ask the seller for a sales contract, which states you are the owner of the car and have paid the full amount asked for the car. From a dealer get a sales invoice instead.
Get an overview of how everything works on the car from the owner. Make sure that the service history, repair invoices and instruction manuals are included in the car. Most cars have 2 sets of keys, both of which you should be given. Make a note of the sellers contact details. You should not drive the car away unless you have arranged insurance.
If you have problems with the car you must try to sort them out as soon as possible. With a private seller what happens depends on the generosity of the seller. A dealer has more obligations under the law, but you should put any problems in writing and if the car is faulty return it within 2 weeks to have any chance of a refund.
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