The vehicle finance company Carmoola has shared a number of tips that can help motorists buy a used car that has been looked after.
As many motorists continue to find ways to cut the cost of motoring, the company highlighted a 168-percent rise in the number of people Googling ‘used cars for sale’ during December 2023.
Aidan Rushby, CEO of Carmoola, noted that all motorists thinking of buying a used car should be cautious to avoid buying a vehicle that was previously damaged.
He advised: “Buying a car can be an exciting and fun experience, but for many it’s fraught with anxiety and confusion as people are understandably worried whether they are getting a good deal or buying a dud.
“With cars being the second largest purchase that many of us will make in our lifetimes, it’s important to address the knowledge imbalance and put buyers back in the driving seat.”
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First, Carmoola recommended that all motorists should check the history of any vehicle they are considering with a HPI check.
By inserting the car’s number plate onto a HPI check website, including the DVLA’s own car checker, buyers can see if the vehicle had been previously stolen, written off and has the same specifications as specified by the seller.
Many sites also allow users to see the vehicle’s MOT history, which can be used to see if it has any underlying issues, such as rust or faulty components.
In addition, the company suggested that asking the seller questions about the car can give a better view on how the vehicle has been kept during the time they owned it.
Sellers who are able to show drivers a full service history and have a genuine reason why they are selling the car are more likely to have looked after the model, rather than just wanting to turn a profit.
Finally, Carmoola advised that it is always a good idea for drivers to test drive any car they want to buy, listening out for any unusual noises or faults.
To help drivers to get the best deal on their next set of wheels, Aiden noted that Carmoola has launched an app, which can give them advice on buying and financing.
He added: “Cars are a considered purchase and can make a real difference to someone’s quality of life – whether that’s for work, family or social reasons.
“With our easy-to-follow tips, and free to use app, anyone on the hunt for a used car can feel confident that they are buying a reliable motor and not an old banger.”
