Tips For Buying A Second Hand Car

Buying a second-hand car is a very attractive option for many drivers. Whether you’re short on budget or don’t need a car for many years, second-hand shopping may be the solution.

The Institute for Automotive Studies reflects an increase of around 17% in second-hand car sales in 2016 compared to 2015. In addition, they claim that more than half of sellers exaggerate the good condition of their vehicles.

Therefore, before launching to buy a car from an individual, it is advisable to take into account several considerations. This will avoid being a victim of a scam or going through problems and repairs in the future.

Previous tips to avoid scams

To begin with, the best options are the cars of family or friends, as it is more likely that you have reliable references on the vehicle.

Try to avoid bargains. Nobody gives more for less, and deciding on a car with a price well below the average can be expensive in the future.

Make sure you deal with the seller directly, and not with intermediaries, unless they are clearly authorized by the owner.

Buy without haste and formalize all the necessary documents. Correctly identify the seller with his ID or CIF if it is a company. Review the vehicle’s documentation and check its license plate, its VIN number and its technical data sheet. Also make sure if the car has correctly passed the ITV that corresponds to it.

The vehicle’s history can be checked by requesting a registration report from the DGT. This way you can verify the car’s documentation and avoid ownership problems.

Check that there is no difference between the information the seller gives you and the mechanic’s inspection report. Pay particular attention to the number of actual kilometers and those estimated by the mechanic.

Do not advance money until you have all the information and you have verified it well. If you have to deliver a signal to the seller, sign a formal contract first.

Review the technical aspects of the second-hand car

When it comes to starting, if a gasoline vehicle starts badly when cold, it may be due to a problem in the mixture injection system. On the other hand, if a diesel has this problem it is probably due to a fault in the incandescent system.

This last breakdown can involve repairs of more than 1,000 euros, so be sure to check the car’s starter well. It is advisable to check that the vehicle does not make any noise when operating or releasing the key.

The direction  can give problems in the route. To check its status, simply turn the steering wheel while driving and pay attention to any strange noise or lack of response from the steering wheel.

Another aspect to consider is the suspension. Its condition can be checked by looking at the wheels. If these are worn equally on both sides, it means that the suspension has no irregularities. It is also advisable to do a test while driving, going through some potholes to check for unusual noises.

If the car has ABS and ESP brakes, check that the interior lights come on when the key is turned on and go off shortly thereafter.

As for the tires, if they are in good condition you can avoid changing them for a season. Check that they are not irregularly worn and that their diameter is appropriate for the vehicle.

To check the transmission, check to see if the clutch is making noises and if the gearshift goes well both hot and cold.

Lastly, make sure the exhaust is  not emitting strange fumes. A bluish color indicates a lot of oil consumption. If it is white, it means that the combustion has a lack of fuel in the combustion, and if it is black, that too much fuel is consumed.

Inspect the exterior of the vehicle

Check the condition of the headlights. If one looks newer it may be because it has been replaced, perhaps as a result of a blow. Also make sure that mabos turn on and respond correctly.

On the sides, check the doors, which should close and open without problems. If not, it may be due to a hinge problem.

The boot must not have any unusual welds in the area of ​​the spare wheel. Pull up the carpet to see if the car has been repainted.

Check that all the elements of the car are approved, especially the belts, the spoiler, the lights and the wheels. This will avoid problems when trying to pass the ITV.

Ultimately, take your time to double-check both the vehicle and the information about the seller. This will avoid possible scams and visits to the mechanic.