Buying a used car? Top tips to avoid disaster!

Opting to buy a used car can save you a lot of money. It's well documented that most new cars lose approximately 40% of their value in the first year alone! That's a lot of money you could be spending elsewhere!

Yet it is important to remember that there are certain risks when it comes to buying a second-hand car. After all, the last thing you want is to end up spending the money you'd supposedly saved on costly repairs! Here at M&BM Motors we have seen quite a few nightmare situations resulting from buyers not taking the right precautions when purchasing a used car, whether from a registered dealer or private seller.

So how can you determine whether the car you like is the amazing deal it seems? How can you avoid spending your hard-earned money on a banger that won't get you to the end of the road, let alone from A to B?

Here are M&BM Motors' top tips to avoid disaster when buying a used car:

When considering purchasing a used car, it is vital to remember that it has a history. And sadly, that history may be rather murky.

For example, if you don't take the necessary precautions you could end up with a used car that was registered stolen, has been previously written off or subject to a logbook loan agreement. In certain cases, your vehicle may have to be taken away for investigation or you may discover that you don't actually own the car at all!

For around £20, you can request a vehicle history check. Please be aware that there are lots of companies that offer this service but M&BM would recommend HPI as although it is one of the most expensive options, it offers the most comprehensive check available. Peace of mind for £20? You know it makes sense.

Don't get overcharged. If you've seen a car you like, do some research by comparing similar cars online to see how much they are priced at.

When it comes to viewing the used car, make sure you go in the daytime so you can clearly see any blemishes that may affect the value, such as dings, dents and scratches.

It is important to ask the seller to show you the vehicle's V5C registration document as this provides details of current and previous registered keepers. It will also contain the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), which you should then match with the VIN on the car itself.

This will be found stamped under the bonnet and at the base of the used car's windscreen.

Have you seen a car that has incredibly low mileage for its age? Sometimes a deal that looks too good to be true is just that. You may find that the odometer has been wound back to make it look as if the mileage is far lower than it actually is.

You're not going to know if the car is comfortable to drive (or listen out for any ominous noises) without taking the used car on a test drive. Allow yourself around 30 minutes and make sure you drive at different speeds, using the accelerator, brakes and gears to check how they handle.

However, before you take the car on a test drive, check that your insurance policy allows you to drive other vehicle's with the owner's permission – or you may end up in trouble if stopped by the authorities.

But it's so shiny! I love the colour! My friends are going to be so jealous?

Yes, many cars are built to look lovely and make you the envy of all around you. But try to remember that they also need to serve a very important purpose. And that is to get you and your passengers to your destination safely. So before you fall in love with the stunning trim, make sure you think of the practicalities.

For example, does this car suit your needs? Is it big enough? Will it accommodate your family? Does it have the boot space you need? If you spend lots of time on the road, is it comfortable and economical? Determine your needs before you start looking as these factors should be the basis of your search. No matter how pretty the car may be!

Here at M&BM we have seen too many dream cars turning into nightmares for their owners once purchased... and we've had to try to fix them too!

If you are concerned at all about whether you're getting a great deal or a total rust-bucket, contact M&BM Motors in Grays, Essex. We are more than happy to check your prospective vehicle before you purchase it to ensure that there are no hidden surprises.