SECOND THOUGHT. Review on General Tips on Buying a Car

Before buying a second-hand car( lately I had bout a Nissan-Sunny) first question to ask yourself

Most imp question is BUDGET - cars depreciate both with the number of years and the kilometres they have travelled. An old car with not too many kilometres on the clock may therefore be priced close to a relatively newer model that has been driven some more. Other factors like the mileage on the odometer, the ownership and maintenance history of the vehicle and the vehicle’s age will play an important role in the car’s price, and your budgeting

Plans for keeping second hand car -If  want to retain the car for a long time, then you shouldn’t mind spending a little more because you would want a vehicle that you should be able to rely on and one that will not give you too much trouble. If, however, you plan to use the car only for a short while before discarding it, you’ll be better off with a cheap and basic automobile that will serve your utilitarian needs until you buy your new car.

Checklist

Oil pipe Rust or holes Signs of wear in the interior Electricals Mismatch in paint, ripples in the body

Operational and maintenance costs?

?You must live with the vehicle you buy. An important consideration is the cost of spares should parts need to be replaced. Fuel efficiency can also be a big issue. Most old vehicles tend to consume slightly more fuel than their brand new counterparts. Some cars need more care than others – involving both time and money.

?Using the second hand vehicle  bought?

?Driving primarily within city limits then a car is comfortable enough for your weekend shopping and is capable of that small out of town trip. If you intend to drive it outside the city limits then you will need a more powerful car that will not have you tired after a day’s drive.

?Where to look for a used car?

New and used car dealers, private sellers and newspaper classifieds, recommend a reputed used car dealer. You will end up paying a slightly higher price, but with that extra money comes the credibility about the vehicle’s ownership history. Also try your luck from any of the numerous newspaper classifieds and if the information is reliable enough then lucky

Do’s and don’ts when buying a used car

Take your time to test drive the car and check it thoroughly Check a used car history report Ask someone knowledgeable to inspect the car for you Be nice to the car salesperson. Be persistent but not rude; if you treat them well then they will be willing to help you Don’t base your decision on what you have been to Don’t buy a car as soon as you see it. Take as much time as you need