Expert foolproof tips for buying a reliable used vehicle

It’s easy to get caught up in the buzz of finding your perfect vehicle for the right price, but, there’s a lot to consider before signing the dotted line so you don’t end up with a faulty vehicle.

The experts at Moneybarn have put together a checklist of five essential insights on what potential buyers should be looking out for when purchasing their next vehicle.

Sarah Kozlowski, National Sales Manager at Moneybarn, says,

“Buying a car can be one of the most exciting times of our lives, but be mindful not to fall victim to faulty vehicles.

“It’s vital that before you purchase a used vehicle you carry out thorough checks to ensure the product you’re purchasing is roadworthy and won’t present any unnecessary financial surprises later down the line.”

What type of history does the vehicle have?

How many owners has the vehicle had and does it have a full service history? If it’s had numerous owners, then you’re well within your rights to ask the dealership why this is and what mechanical issues the vehicle has had in the past.

You may also want to consider completing a Hire Purchase Investigation (HPI) to strengthen your understanding of the vehicle’s history. A HPI check can allow you to see if the vehicle has any outstanding finance attached to it and if it has been stolen or if it has been written off as a result of damage caused by a collision.

Are all of the electrics in working condition?

Faulty or damaged electrics can often be one of the most financially damaging aspects of owning a vehicle. If there’s a vehicle of interest to you, then make sure you take it for a test drive and check all of its electrics are working correctly, from the headlights to indicators

Are all of the vehicle’s documents in order?

When buying a vehicle you should be given a number of important documents from the dealership, but if not, this should ring alarm bells. When documents are passed from salesperson to owner, it’s easy to ignore them. It’s crucial that you check you’re being given documents such as the VC5 and MOT certificate, to ensure the purchase is legitimate.

What condition is the vehicle’s bodywork in?

Most drivers looking to buy a vehicle will glance over the bodywork to look for any scratches or damage but it’s important to inspect the vehicle in more detail. It’s crucial to make sure all of the panels are the same and they’re aligned, as well as checking underneath the bonnet for any signs of rust developing.

Does the tread depth on the tyres meet the legal requirements?

It’s easy to forget about the tyres but it’s essential you inspect them to make sure they’re roadworthy. Damaged or worn tyres can put you at risk of a fine of up to £2,500, as well as three points on your license. Penalties like these are why it’s extremely important to make sure the tread depth on each tyre is correct and there is no other visible damage.