Pre-owned car buyers are growing massively in and across the UK for all the right reasons. Indeed, a used car purchase is a financially savvy decision as it offers big cost savings upfront. Besides this, it comes with other perks, like depreciation benefits, lower insurance rates, and more. It's a win-win all the way. More importantly, as the trend towards environmental sustainability rises, people now consciously opt for used cars. This helps them play their role in lowering the impact of new car production on the planet. So, if you're also planning to buy a used car this year but need guidance on navigating the best purchase, you have come to the right place. We have for you the ultimate guide to buying a used car in 2024:
Steps To Buying A Used Car In 2024
Set Your Budget
First, determine your budget. Before starting the legwork, you must be clear about how much you want to spend on the used car. This is vital, especially for individuals who don't want to override their finances by splurging all they have on a ride.
The best way to set the budget is to identify the type of car you want. Next, keep in mind the ownership cost. This includes the purchase price, insurance, registration, maintenance, and potential repairs. Insurance costs vary significantly based on the car's make, model, and year, so it's wise to get insurance quotes before deciding. Additionally, factor in registration fees and regular maintenance costs, which can vary by vehicle type and condition.
Identify your Needs and Purpose
Identify your needs, like whether you want a family car, commuter vehicle, or a ride for business purposes. Next, compile a list of models that fit your criteria. Now, look up the average prices for these models to understand what you should expect to pay. By clearly understanding your options and their market value, you can make a more informed decision.
Do Your Legwork- Research The Market To Find A Trusted Dealer
Remember that not all dealers are equal. Therefore, investing time in finding a trusted and reputed car dealer is important. Since it is 2024, it is easier to research online. Start by reading online reviews on trusted platforms like Google, Yelp, and dealership-specific websites. Pay attention to patterns in customer feedback, especially regarding customer service, honesty, and after-sales support.
Positive reviews indicate a trustworthy dealership that stands behind its vehicles, while negative reviews or unresolved complaints are red flags.
Put simply, consider buying a used car in 2024 from an experienced and reliable dealer with a large inventory. Our inventory features Mercedes, Audi, Honda, Jaguar, Ford, etc.
Discuss Your Goals
Discuss your needs and goals with the sales representative. Communicate your priorities, whether it's fuel efficiency, cargo space, or advanced safety features. A good sales rep will guide you towards vehicles that meet your criteria and help you make an informed decision.
Inspect the Vehicle
Thoroughly inspect the used car. Start with the exterior, checking for signs of damage, rust, and mismatched paint, which could indicate past accidents. Next, inspect the tyres for even wear and adequate tread depth. Inside, assess the seats, controls, and dashboard for potential damages, ensuring all electronics function properly.
Also, look for possible corrosion, leaks, and the condition of belts and hoses. Check fluid levels and battery health.
Pay Special Attention When Shopping For a Used EV
Pay Special Attention When Shopping For a Used EV
Moreover, when buying a used electric vehicle(EV) from a dealership, pay special attention to battery health, as it is the most crucial component. Request a detailed battery health report to understand its current capacity and any degradation. Confirm the battery's warranty status and enquire about options for replacement or repairs.
Additionally, ensure you have access to adequate charging infrastructure at home, work, or nearby public charging stations, and verify the vehicle's charging capabilities, including the type of charger and charging speed.
Assess the EV's range at full charge to ensure it meets your daily driving needs, with some buffer for unexpected trips. Be aware that the range can decrease over time as the battery degrades, so check the current range compared to the original specifications.
Ask For A Test Drive
If you find the perfect car that meets your checklist's criteria, ask the dealer for a test drive. Assess the car's handling, braking, and acceleration during the test drive. Make sure to listen for unusual noises and pay attention to vibrations. Don't forget to test the car on different road conditions to ensure overall performance.
Review Vehicle History and Certification Reports
A trusted dealer will provide you with vehicle history and certification reports. A vehicle history report comprehensively details accidents, service history, and ownership of the car you want to buy. Similarly, certification reports ensure the car meets manufacturer standards, typically involving a thorough multi-point inspection of mechanical and cosmetic aspects. Furthermore, certified pre-owned vehicles include extended warranties, offering peace of mind.
In other words, these reports confirm coverage details and any necessary repairs were completed with genuine parts. They ensure the CPO vehicles are in top condition and justify the price charged.
Evaluate Financing Options
Consider financing from the dealer if you find a used car model that matches your needs but is slightly priced higher than your budget limit. Some dealers offer in-house financing options; others connect you to financing sources/ potential lenders. This provides greater flexibility to the buyer, making buying used cars easier as they don't have to save up or pay full price at once.
Wrapping Up
In a nutshell, buying a used car in 2024 is a great decision, especially if you want to lower your carbon footprint and save money. However, if you want your purchase to be smooth, visit Stebbings! We have been in the UK car dealer business for more than four decades.
We have the largest inventory of car models and makes from the best and industry-leading brands at the best price and in mint condition. All cars in our range are selected carefully and prepared to the highest industry standards.
At Stebbings car supermarket, we offer full dealer facilities. These include part exchange, warranty, vehicle servicing, and financing.
Authorised and regulated by FCA, we are a credit broker introducing you to lenders to make financing your favourite ride easy.
Also, if you shop for an electric vehicle with us, we can help you connect to our EV charger partner and install a charging point at home. For more information or assistance, contact us today.
