By asking a couple of important questions you can ensure that your used car dream doesn’t become an expensive nightmare. There are also a few things that you can investigate and get inspected before buying a used car to give you peace of mind.
Don’t be afraid to Ask This
- Can the vehicle be legally bought or does the seller have the right to sell the car?
- Is the vehicle service history logbook available and services book stamped up to date?
- Is the seller the registered keeper and provide proof thereof?
- Does the vehicle have unpaid finance?
- How many previous owners did the car have?
- Has the car been in a serious accident and or written off?
- What code is the vehicle? Note code 3 vehicles are code 1 or code 2 vehicles that have been involved in an accident and according to the insurer, is so badly damaged that it is not worth repairing.
- Is everything in good working order?
- Can the car be inspected by a mechanic and motor body repairer of my choice?
- Can I take it for a test drive?
- Is there a second-hand warranty on this vehicle?
- Are there any defects, has the model of car or any of its parts ever been recalled?
- Did the dealer/seller get a 24 point vehicle inspection done on the car and is a roadworthy certificate available for the car?
Investigate & Inspect
- Get a professional motor mechanic of your choice to inspect all mechanical aspects of the car.
- Get an accredited motor body repairer to inspect paintwork as well as check the vehicle for possible old accident damage, substandard repairs and rust. A damaged chassis directly affects the ability of your car to absorb the impact of an accident as effectively as it should. If you feel the chassis of your car has been compromised in any way, visit an accredited workshop and have them conduct a simple laser test to check for vulnerabilities.
- Check wear & tear on steering wheel, interior, seats and gear lever. The second-hand vehicle might show low kilometres but excessive wear and tear on a steering wheel and gear lever
might prove otherwise.
4. Check the condition of rims, mags and tyres.
5. Check spare wheel, boot space and carpet for wear and tear.
“Better to be safe than sorry!”
To find out more about your car and the repair process, visit the SAMBRA Consumer Education page. A wealth of information lives there to support your knowledge and understanding of our industry and your car. Read more
