Buying a Used Car

If you are thinking of trading your set of wheels for something a little newer, there is much to consider. The second hand car market is awash with vehicles, as people look to upgrade, and with that in mind, here are some important things to look for when browsing used vehicles with a view to buying.

Full Service History

Every vehicle should be maintained, from the day of its registration until it is sent to the graveyard in the sky, and this information would be recorded in the rear section of the owner’s manual. FSH, as it is known, means the car has been serviced according to the manufacturer’s specification, and the garage that carries out the work would put their rubber stamp on a space provided, ensuring the data is authentic. A car with no FSH should be avoided, as there is no way of telling whether the car has been looked after.

Reputable Dealer

Avoid buying a second-hand car from a private seller, as you have zero warranty, and with affordable used cars in Harrogate, you can browse a selection of quality vehicles, and if they don’t have what you are looking for, tell them and they won’t take long to source a few cars that meet your criteria. When looking at a sued car at a dealership, check for:

  • Service History
  • Signs of Body Damage
  • Mileage – This is important, and the lower the mileage, the better.

You should insist on a test drive, as this is the best way to get the feel of any car, and the dealer would hopefully offer you some form of warranty, which is standard practice in the used car industry when you buy from a dealer.