Buying a used car

[hazelwoodnat]

Hi,

I am looking to buy a used car as my one is getting more unreliable by the day. I really don't know much about cars.. apart from how to drive one :). I have absolutely no idea where to start. Where is the best place to look (as a girl I have felt quite intimidated going into car dealer show rooms), and is there anyone who can give me any advice as I am worried about being ripped off? Anyone have any idea where I can go and who I can talk to?

Thanks!

[japancar]

Hi,

I am looking to buy a used car as my one is getting more unreliable by the day. I really don't know much about cars.. apart from how to drive one :). I have absolutely no idea where to start. Where is the best place to look (as a girl I have felt quite intimidated going into car dealer show rooms), and is there anyone who can give me any advice as I am worried about being ripped off? Anyone have any idea where I can go and who I can talk to?

Thanks!

One rule of thumb is to listen to the salesperson, and if you feel they talk too much, move on to another car lot. Often, women salespeople are great for women to deal with, but may take advantage of this "comfort". Is there any way you can take a friend with you for support?

Steve

[Jakeh]

Hi

Firstly try not to worry. There is help out here!
If you do not know much about cars the whole process of buying can feel very intimidating, and with so much involved, very daunting!

-Franchised authorised local dealers are best for peace of mind but you will pay a bit more for this service
-Decide on the car you want (or narrow it down to two or three) so they dont push something on you they are trying to get rid of
- Know how much you want to spend (dont tell dealer this, although it will be their first question- just say it depends on the car)
-Make sure they fulfill their claims of offers on posters or in their adverts, Eg 2 year warranty given, full mechanical checks, full service etc
- Use RAC or AA type sites that give lots of advice on buying e.g. what to look for in the paperwork, vehicle checks (for around £25 'vehicle status' checks can be done to ensure car not stolen, any previous accidents, outstanding finance- I recommend this done)
- Finally DO NOT feel rushed or embarrassed etc into buying. It's your hard earned money and will be your car you will have to use every day.

Hope this helps
Cheers
Jakeh

[hazelwoodnat]

Thank you so much for the advice. :) Still looking around for a car and have been to a couple of used car dealers but haven't been happy with the sales people so have left empty handed. Will keep looking and keep you posted.

[Jakeh]

You're welcome
j

[m_e]

Hi,

I think I am as worried as you about buying a car.... especially a used one, but my friend recommended this company: www.pbcarconsultants.co.uk. They do all the work for you and you don't have to worry about a thing. He is really pleased with his car so I am probably going to use them when I buy my car in the next few weeks. Just doing a bit of research at the moment because I don't really know what I am looking for!

[hazelwoodnat]

Hi,

Just to let you know that I looked at the two links that you sent and I decided to go with the PB Car Consultants. I looked at the car hagglers one but I didn't like the website much. It didn't really fill me with confidence. I have phoned PB C C and they seem really nice. I have had my initial discussion and they have given me some brilliant advice, and I have asked them to find a car for me. They say they should be ableto get me one within a couple of weeks so I will let you all know.

Thanks for your help!

[Jenita]

1. Decide your budget: It is always better to have a rough idea of the amount that you can afford to spend on buying the car before starting the car buying process. This way you can avoid overshooting your budget. While deciding about the budget also account for the insurance and other running costs.

2. Finding the right car: Unlike buying a new car you can't be fastidious while buying a used car. You have to be flexible. If you're set on one model, in a specific color, with a certain mileage or specification you may find it hard to get a bargain as you're focusing on a narrow market. If you're prepared to consider something similar to what you want, you'll find a much wider choice available and it becomes easier to negotiate.

3. Communicate with the seller: You can buy the used car either from a dealer or from an individual. While buying the car from an individual enquire why he/she is selling the car, how the car was used (single hand, daily commuting etc.), and finally ask for permission to get the car inspected by a car mechanic. If you get the right answers only then proceed further otherwise look for some other seller.

4. Thoroughly inspect the car: While an individual seller may permit you to get the car inspected by a mechanic, a dealer may not be so obliging. Don't let this stop you from doing some inspection on your own. :)

[Mayzie]

I’m in a very similar position and have found very little regarding women car buying. The advice on this site has been very helpful. I’ve also ran across an article. It is another great resource especially if you are considering a used car.

http://www.divinecaroline.com/article/22300/27577/?CMP=KNC-DC_YSM_6

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[LizHobart]

Thank you so much for the divine caroline link. I've found a ton of great articles to help me with a number of different situations I'm in. Great insight!

[dime3]

The more the choices the better.;)