The following are some top tips to take into consideration before signing on the dotted line when you’re looking to buy a used car – whether this is for the first time, or a repeat purchase.

1. Take the time to do your research

• Used cars come in all shapes and sizes, specification, and price. Therefore, spend time doing your research to find the vehicle that is right for you in terms of practicality, comfort, and lifestyle – whether this is a city car, an SUV, or something a little more sporty. Also bear in mind that used cars can have a manual or automatic gearbox.
• As well as reading online reviews and road-test reports in the media, you can also carry out your own practical research in the form of on-the-road test drives, which is explained in more detail later in this guide.

2. There’s a growing choice of used EV models 

• There’s an increasing number of fully-electric (EV) models coming on to the second-hand (used car) market, and this may be the first time that you’re considering buying a car powered by batteries and motors, rather than an engine.
• Think about your lifestyle and the distances you normally drive to help determine whether an EV is right for you, as well as where you can charge it (i.e. a driveway or on-street), and the expected cost of doing so.
• The amount of charge EV batteries can hold decreases over time. Therefore, ask for documentation on “battery health” to show expected performance / the “life” that is left in the batteries when charging.
• This will also have an impact on range (the maximum distance that you can travel on a full charge), whilst the weather, terrain, and vehicle usage can also affect it too.

3. Buy from a Motor Ombudsman-accredited retailer

There are thousands of used car retailers across the UK, but for added peace of mind, look for ones locally or further afield that are signed up to The Motor Ombudsman’s Vehicle Sales Code.

TMO TOP TIP: The Motor Ombudsman’s online Garage Finder is a quick and easy way to search for reputable independent retailers and franchise dealers across the UK that are committed to the Vehicle Sales Code.

What are some of the key advantages of buying a used car from an established and reputable Motor Ombudsman-accredited retailer?

• Buying from an established and reputable Motor Ombudsman-accredited retailer means a car has undergone comprehensive checks prior to sale (normally as part of an Approved Used programme), and the seller is committed to the highest standards of service.
• If something goes wrong, you will have access to The Motor Ombudsman’s free-of-charge Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) service to help conclude any complaints fairly and in an impartial environment, if you have not been able to resolve any issues with the seller in the first instance.
• Buying from a reputable retailer will also give you a fully transparent view of the car’s condition and history (i.e. to make sure that it is clear of any finance, it has not been involved in an accident or is a stolen vehicle etc, and that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) matches the one on the V5C logbook) to be able to make a fully informed purchase, and steer clear of any hidden and potentially costly surprises during ownership.

4. Purchasing a used car privately carries added risks

• It may be tempting to make savings in the shorter term by buying from a private individual after seeing a social media advert or a car parked at the roadside. However, this could prove to be a false economy, as repair bills may mount up in the longer term, and turn a car into an unwanted expensive liability.
• It’s also worth bearing in mind that The Motor Ombudsman is unable to help with any disputes if something goes wrong after buying a car from a private individual, and you also have less protection from the law, compared to if you had used a physical retailer.

5. Take a look at longer-term affordability

• When buying a used car, it is important to take into account the longer-term running costs, not just what your budget it is at the time of buying the car which, for many, often means putting down a deposit – a percentage of the purchase price, to take ownership.
• Before signing on the dotted line, take your time to work out the car’s running costs alongside other household bills, so that it doesn’t put an unnecessary strain on your finances.

The following is a checklist of some of key costs to keep front of mind when running a car:

• Monthly finance repayments (if the car has not been paid for outright)
• Fluctuating charging tariffs and petrol / diesel prices
• Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax) – which varies with the car’s emissions
• Insurance
• Breakdown cover
• Vehicle maintenance and the cost of replacement components, such as tyres and brake discs, which wear with vehicle usage
• An extended warranty to cover the cost of mechanical and electrical component breakdowns
• A service plan to help spread out the cost of annual routine maintenance
• Congestion charges

6. Test drive the cars you’re interested in 

• Test drives are an important part of buying a used car. In fact, they are an ideal opportunity to get practical experience of what the car will be like to use on a day-to-day basis, whilst also giving you the chance to ask questions whilst out on the road.
• Test drives equally give first-hand experience of whether equipment, such as child car seats, pushchairs, bicycles, and golf clubs, all fit within your shortlisted vehicles, alongside the expected number of adults and/or children that you plan to have in the car on a regular basis.

TMO TOP TIP: Remember to take your driving licence along with you to the retailer along with any other equipment to make sure that they fit in the cars you’re interested in.

7. Don’t be afraid to negotiate

• When speaking to the retailer, or when visiting their premises, don’t be afraid to negotiate on the list price with the seller, which is where your research will prove valuable to potentially help secure any discounts or an enhanced deal.
• As part of your research, take a look online to see what other similar models have sold for, as well as guides, which give an indication of the expected purchase price for the condition, age and mileage of the used car that you are looking at.

8. Knowledge is power

• For added peace of mind, it’s always worth taking someone along that knows what to look out for in terms of the condition, faults or issues, or enlisting the services of a qualified mechanic to take a good look at the vehicle before buying it.

9. Consider taking out an extended warranty

• If the original manufacturer’s warranty on the vehicle has expired (this will typically be between three to seven years in duration), taking out an extended warranty from a Motor Ombudsman-accredited provider is a great way to cover the sometimes significant costs of repairing a car should it suffer a fault.
• Warranties vary in their level of cover, so take the time to read through the policy information, as well as the terms and conditions which highlight what you can and cannot claim for in the event of an issue, and what you need to do as the owner to maintain the validity of the policy (e.g. to keep the car serviced in line with the manufacturer’s recommended intervals).

10. Check everything thoroughly before signing on the dotted line 

• Before signing on the dotted line, and making a legal commitment to buy a car, and to help prevent any complications down the road, it is important to read any paperwork thoroughly to check that all information is correct, and that you understand the terms and conditions (i.e. the small print) in full. This applies to the order form, any invoices, the initial deposit, the finance and warranty agreements.

11. Understand how the car works

• Getting the keys to your new car is often an exciting time. However, before driving off the forecourt, it is worth spending the time doing a walk-around with a member of staff, to ensure that you are satisfied with the interior and exterior condition of the car, and are comfortable with how any controls and systems work, as these can differ between models.
• In addition, before you leave the retailer, check that you have all the promised documentation relating to the car, including the handbook, the vehicle history (such as MOT certificates (if printed), the stamped service book, and any receipts for any payments you have made, as well as those kept by the previous owner.

12. And above all…Take your time! 

• Buying a car can be a daunting experience for some, with so much to take into consideration, whilst it is often a significant financial commitment.
• Therefore, avoid rushing into a decision, and it may take time to find the perfect car that meets your criteria and budget, so patience is also key!

OTHER HANDY MOTOR OMBUDSMAN RESOURCES

Take a look at some of our other handy resources before buying a used car:  

• The Motor Ombudsman’s Knowledge Base (which includes dedicated categories on used cars and electric vehicles)

• The Motor Ombudsman’s #JustPassed guide on buying and servicing a car for the first time

The post TMO’s Top Tips for buying a used car appeared first on The Motor Ombudsman.

Ahead of the arrival of the new “73” vehicle registration in England, Wales and Scotland on the 1st of September, The Motor Ombudsman, the Ombudsman dedicated to the automotive sector, is highlighting 12 handy tips for motorists to take into consideration when looking to buy a new car to help ensure that it meets their needs and budget.

Shop around and take a test drive

Spending time doing your research online and visiting showrooms can pay off, as the choice of models and fuel types available from manufacturers, which each offer their own merits and driving experiences, has grown in recent years. Once you have a shortlist of cars that are suitable for your requirements and budget, take a test drive to get practical experience of what they will be like to use on a day-to-day basis.

Emissions influence payable road tax

A car’s CO2 emissions determine the rate of vehicle excise duty (road tax) that you will need to pay during ownership of the vehicle, and this often rises every year. Electric vehicles are exempt until April 2025, but self-charging and plug-in hybrids are not, although these will be at the lower end of the scale in terms of tax due. There are plenty of online resources and the manufacturer’s vehicle specification itself to check what band your preferred car will be subject to.

Virtual vehicle purchases are classed as “distance sales”

Buying a new car online from start to finish over the phone or the web without physically visiting retail premises at any point during the purchase of a car is classed as a “distance sale”. The legislation that governs this type of transaction is the Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013, which offers other rights to those found in the Consumer Rights Act 2015. For example, when buying a vehicle on the internet, you have two weeks to return the car from the date of delivery if you change your mind, but it is important to bear in mind that there may be deductions for any usage during the first days of ownership.

Electric vehicles (EVs) offer buyers more choice than ever

The majority of manufacturers offer fully electric vehicles as part of their model line-up. Plus with new brands coming to the UK, the choice of EVs at different price points is far more extensive than it was only a few years ago. EVs do tend to be more expensive than petrol or diesel equivalents, so shop around, speak to current owners about their experiences, read reviews, and try them out for yourself before buying, especially if you are looking to adopt battery-powered motoring for the first time.

Never buy a car without doing your homework

Spend time doing your research to find the vehicle that is right for you in terms of practicality and comfort. As well as reading reviews, and the plethora of information available online, use test drives to get first-hand experience of whether equipment, such as child car seats, pushchairs, bicycles, and golf clubs, all fit within your shortlisted vehicles, alongside the expected number of passengers.

The Motor Ombudsman’s Garage Finder is a gateway to reputable businesses

There are many retailers selling cars across the country, but not all will be voluntarily committed to the high standards of service required by The Motor Ombudsman’s Motor Industry Code of Practice for Vehicle Sales. The Motor Ombudsman’s online Garage Finder (TheMotorOmbudsman.org/Garage-Finder) is a quick way to find a local franchise dealer or independent retailer that is accredited to the Code. It also means that, if you have an issue during the purchase process or beyond, that you are unable to resolve in the first instance with the business, you can then call on The Motor Ombudsman’s free and impartial Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) service for independent assistance.

You need to check all paperwork carefully before signing

Prior to buying any product or service, it is important to read any paperwork thoroughly to verify that all information is correct, and that you understand the terms and conditions (i.e. the small print) in full. This applies to the order form, invoices, as well as the terms of putting down an initial deposit, which will often not be refundable once paid, as this implies that you have a contract of purchase with the seller.

There are various ways to pay for a car  

Aside from being able to purchase a car outright in one lump sum payment, there are several means to fund a vehicle. These can include, taking out a loan with a bank for example, or opting for a deposit and monthly payments over a number of years via a Hire purchase (HP) or Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) arrangement.

Take the time to understand the merits and disadvantages of each type of financing, as well as associated conditions, such as annual mileage limits. Also, it is important to bear in mind that finance payments will still often be due even if the car is kept off the road for prolonged periods for repairs, as a contract will exist with the finance provider.

Have a clear picture of longer term affordability

When buying a car, it is important to take into account the longer-term running costs, not simply if a vehicle is affordable in terms of the initial deposit, especially at a time of high inflation and bills. If not part of an all-inclusive subscription that is becoming more widely available, budgeting should also be based on the monthly finance repayments, the estimated charging tariffs for EVs and plug-in hybrids (at home and on-street), and the often-fluctuating price of fuel at the pumps.

Then there is of course, breakdown cover, insurance, maintenance and the cost of replacement components, such as tyres and brake discs, which wear with vehicle usage. Equally, enquire about service plans, to get an idea of the cost of routine maintenance once any initial complementary purchase offers have expired, with the same applying to the purchase of an extended vehicle warranty.

Range varies by EV make and model  

The maximum range provided on a full charge can often be an influential factor in a purchase decision when choosing an EV. It can equally vary by make and model, meaning it is important to make sure that the car suits your planned usage, i.e. whether it is going to be primarily for daily commitments or the commute. Range can also fall due to a number of factors, such as during cold weather and when using in-car systems, so it is worth speaking to the seller about how it can be affected, to make sure your needs are still met. Similarly, ask about charging times and speeds depending on the rating of the home or on-street points being used.

Every question is a sensible one

During your research, and prior to signing any documentation, this is an ideal time to ask any questions to the seller about the vehicles that you are interested in, whether this is about the specification, options and accessories, financing, or running costs. If accompanied by one of the retailer’s sales representatives, a test drive may also prompt further questions about the practicality of the car in terms of its functions and performance when out on the road.

Expect a possible wait for delivery

Although global supply chain issues have subsided in recent months, and delivery times of new vehicles have reduced, there may still be a wait of a few months from the point of ordering before the car arrives at the retailer for handover. Therefore, you may have to run your existing car for longer before it is handed over to the retailer as a “part-exchange”, or when you can indeed sell it, particularly if you rely on your existing vehicle as your sole form of transport.

Bill Fennell, Chief Ombudsman and Managing Director of The Motor Ombudsman, said: “A brand new car is, for many, a significant financial commitment, even more so at a time when there are ever-increasing pressures on household budgets. Therefore, spending time doing research on different makes and models, buying from a reputable Motor Ombudsman-accredited retailer, budgeting effectively, and reading the small print, are all factors that are imperative for consumers to keep front of mind before signing on the dotted line.”

Bill added: “With electric vehicles gaining prominence in terms of ownership, and with more new entrants coming into the market this year, there is an increasing choice of models available alongside hybrids and petrol and diesel-only models. Well-founded purchase decisions to get the right car are therefore more important than ever.”

To view The Motor Ombudsman’s Motor Industry Code of Practice for Vehicle Sales, visit www.TheMotorOmbudsman.org/consumers/our-codes-of-practice/vehicle-sales-code.

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• With the introduction of the “72” plate in England, Scotland and Wales on 01st of September, The Motor Ombudsman is offering consumers tips to take into account when buying a new car
• Shopping around, budgeting for maintenance and running costs, and planning ahead due to longer delivery times, are just some of the points for consideration by motorists
• Choosing a retailer that is accredited to The Motor Ombudsman is equally important, as consumers have a free impartial and independent dispute resolution service to call on should any disputes arise following a vehicle purchase

The 01st of September sees the second vehicle plate change of 2022 in England, Wales and Scotland, with the arrival of the new “72” vehicle registration. A car is often the second most significant purchase after buying a property, and The Motor Ombudsman, the Ombudsman dedicated to the automotive sector, is therefore highlighting ten handy tips for motorists when looking to get behind the wheel of a new vehicle.

Shop around and do your research

Spending time doing your research online or visiting showrooms can pay off, as some retailers may run promotional offers to help with the cost of ownership. Test driving cars of interest is also an effective way of knowing which makes and models best suit your requirements and lifestyle.

It is just as important to ensure that your chosen retailer is accredited to The Motor Ombudsman’s Vehicle Sales Code, as this shows that the business is adhering to the highest standards of service. In addition, should there be a complaint that you cannot conclude directly with a seller in the first instance, you will also have access to The Motor Ombudsman’s free-of-charge, independent and impartial Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) service.

Expenses for running and maintaining a car should be budgeted for

It is not only the initial price tag of the car which matters in terms of being affordable. Post-purchase, there are running and maintenance costs to take into account, such as monthly finance payments, annual servicing, fuel or electric charging tariffs. Many new cars are offered with incentives, such as free insurance, road tax (where applicable) and breakdown cover, but once expired after the initial defined term, these ownership expenses will also need to be paid for.

Virtual online vehicle purchases are governed by specific legislation

Buying a new car online from start to finish over the internet, instead of visiting retailer premises at any point during the purchase process, including for a test drive, is known as a “distance sale”. In this scenario, the sales transaction is governed by the Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013. For example, when buying a vehicle on the internet, you have 14 days to return the car from the date of delivery if you change your mind, but it is important to bear in mind that there may be deductions for usage if you have driven the car before deciding to hand it back.

Electric vehicles are becoming more prominent

With petrol and diesel prices recently hitting record highs on forecourts across the country, buying an electric vehicle (EV) is becoming a more popular ownership proposition. With the number of electric models on the market increasing, there is far more choice in terms of budget, range, battery capacity and equipment. Before buying an EV, it useful to think about factors, such as where it can be charged – i.e. on the street or a driveway, and where and how you will be driving it, namely whether it will be used predominantly for short journeys and errands, or to travel longer distances.

New cars mean you can choose the specification

One of the main advantages of buying a new car straight from the factory, as opposed to one that is second hand, is that you are the very first owner. This means that you can choose the vehicle’s exact specification according to your budget and taste, including the interior and exterior colour, the size of engine (for a petrol or diesel model), or battery capacity and range (for an electric car), and whether the car is fitted with automatic or manual transmission, for example.

Tow the line

If you are looking to buy a vehicle to tow a trailer, horse box or caravan, for work or leisure purposes, it is worth asking whether accessories, such as a towbar and wiring, can be fitted to the model you are interested in, and to find out the maximum weight that can be pulled safely by the car. For first time “tow-ers”, or for those simply needing a refresher, training is available via providers across the UK.

You may have to wait for delivery

With fewer new cars being produced due to global component shortages, and semiconductor chips being one of the most in-demand parts, it is worth planning in advance in terms of when you would be looking to take delivery of your vehicle, as it could take several months for it to arrive.

Furthermore, there is the possibility that the date specified by the retailer on the order form may also change according to the manufacturer’s build schedule, so take the time to read any documentation and terms and conditions carefully to understand the implications of any timing changes prior to putting down a deposit. You may find that the specification that you have selected is not complete at the point of delivery. In most cases, this should be rectified as the parts become available, and the retailer should keep you updated about this.

Technology varies by make, model and fuel type

With the wide variety of makes and models on the market today, the way that in-car controls are used (i.e. via a touchscreen or manual dials, for example) varies by brand. The equipment which comes as part of the standard specification, and what is available as paid-for extras or options, can also be different.

With many elements of the vehicle now dependent on software and electronics to operate, it can be helpful at the point of purchase to enquire about any steps that need to be taken to keep systems up to date or be upgraded via recommended downloads, such as satellite navigation maps. Some downloads may be activated remotely via the manufacturer’s “over-the-air” updates, where no further action is required.

In addition, there may be subscription services that, for the first year are included in the car, but then may incur a charge for future use. Some vehicle functions may be controlled via a smartphone app (e.g. for electric vehicles), so it is worth checking that your device is compatible, and that you will be comfortable using this kind of technology.

Warranties come as standard for new cars

The advantage of buying new is that, cars come with a manufacturer’s warranty as part of the purchase. These will vary in duration (i.e. three to seven years) or for the total mileage that is covered under the agreement (e.g. up to 100,000). Warranties are designed to cover the cost of rectifying mechanical failures that occur as a result of a defect during the build process. It is advisable to read the policy fully, to be up to speed with any exclusions, such as for wear and tear items, including tyres and brake discs.

It is also commonplace for manufacturers to provide paint and anti-corrosion warranties, although these will often be for a more limited period, whilst electric models may also come with a separate battery warranty for the retention of a percentage of its capacity for a specific number of years or miles.

On handover day, check and understand the vehicle

The day that you are handed the keys to your new car is often an exciting time. However, before driving off the forecourt, it is worth spending the time doing a walk-around with a member of staff, to ensure that you are satisfied with the interior and exterior condition of the car, that all documentation, including the handbook is present, and that you are comfortable with how any controls and systems work, as these can differ between models.

Bill Fennell, Chief Ombudsman and Managing Director of The Motor Ombudsman, said: “Buying a big ticket item, such as a new car, is a significant commitment. It is therefore important that consumers spend time doing their research to select both the right car and retailer, spend within their means, and plan ahead both in terms of longer-term affordability, and when they will need a new car due to the extended lead times.”

To view The Motor Ombudsman’s Motor Industry Code of Practice for Vehicle Sales, visit www.TheMotorOmbudsman.org/consumers/our-codes-of-practice/vehicle-sales-code.

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What is a test drive?

A test drive is an essential part of the vehicle purchase process (new or used), where you can try out the car first-hand to find out whether it will meet your needs and that it is of the right quality.

What should I take into consideration before a test drive?

If there is a specific model, engine size, transmission (i.e. automatic or manual), or trim level / grade that you wish to try, check in advance that it’s available when booking the test drive. Also, to make the most of your visit, and if you have the time, it is also worth asking whether you can test more than one car, as it can be useful to compare one model to another. In addition, take the measurements of your garage or allocated parking area to ensure that your new car will fit. Furthermore, if you’re looking to buy an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle, find out if you can have a charging point installed at your home, or where your nearest one is.

What should I bring along to a test drive?

So that the independent garage or franchised car dealership can verify that it is legal for you to drive their vehicles, you will need to have your driver’s licence with you so that they can check and take a copy of it. You will not need to pre-arrange insurance cover as the car will be on the business’ policy. However, ask if there are any excesses to pay in the rare event of an accident or damage occurring during the drive.

In addition, think about how you will be using the car, and bring along any accessories such as a buggy or sporting equipment (e.g. golf clubs), so that you can see whether they will fit in the boot. Likewise for child car seats to see whether they are compatible with the fixing points.

 A face covering is also required when visiting a car showroom. 

How long will I be able to test the car for?

Normally, a test drive will last for about an hour, and the business will have a pre-defined route in the local area which often takes in different types of roads (e.g. residential and motorways). It is common practice for the sales representative to take to the wheel first to show you the controls, and will drive to a safe place to swap over.

Some brands now offer longer test drives so that you can see what it’s like to live with the car in your own environment and as part of your weekly routine.

What should I look out for during the test drive of a car?

During the drive, you may want to consider the following*, and it’s always worth taking someone with you (such as a qualified mechanic) if you are unsure as to what to look out for:

– Is it comfortable, and can you adjust the seats and steering wheel easily to the correct height?

– Is there enough head and legroom?

– Is the boot big enough for your requirements, and how do the seats fold down (i.e. a 60-40 or 50-50 split)?

– Is there enough storage in the front and rear?

– How user-friendly are the satellite navigation and audio / infotainment systems?

– Are there charging sockets for my satellite navigation system or smartphone?

– Is there Bluetooth connectivity?

– Are there any squeaks and rattles (if testing a used car especially)?

– What does the engine sound like (as this could reveal potential faults)?

– Is the gearbox shifting smoothly?

– What is the condition of the bodywork and tyres (if testing a used car especially)?

– Does it accelerate adequately when overtaking or on steep inclines, or does the car feel under-powered to you?

*List not exclusive.

What will happen after the test drive?

Following the test drive, the sales representative will often want to get your feedback on what you thought of the car or cars that you have just tried, and try to gauge when you will be looking to make a purchase. However, just because you have done a test drive, don’t feel pressured into signing on the dotted line there and then. As it is a significant purchase, take the time to think it through, review all the paperwork and make sure that the car is ultimately right for you.

Where can I find a business to arrange a test drive of a car that I am interested in?

To arrange a test drive of a car at an independent garage or franchised car dealership which is accredited to The Motor Ombudsman’s Motor Industry Code of Practice for Vehicle Sales, visit www.themotorombudsman.org/garage-finder.

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