What to look out for when buying a car

[lucy_w86]

I test drove a car today, am getting it checked out by a friend who knows about cars and want to know what to look out for and challenge the dealer on.

I am getting finance, the car is £8k and I got it down to £7.5k then I will pay a deposit of £500. Is it possible to get the price down more?

Also, they quoted 13% for finance. I dont think I will get a loan because although I have a good credit history (checked this out), the credit crunch is biting and I just recently changed jobs.

[Hintza]

It sounds like you have agreed on the price. A bit rude to go back and haggle again.

However the finance sounds extortionate (I wouldn't deal on 13%). Have you spoken to your bank about a loan?

[lucy_w86]

It sounds like you have agreed on the price. A bit rude to go back and haggle again.

However the finance sounds extortionate (I wouldn't deal on 13%). Have you spoken to your bank about a loan?

No I havent as I am concerned about the fact that I have changed jobs recently and what with the credit crunch and if they decline, its a dent on my record.

[Barneysmom]

Yes you should get a loan for about 7% or so?
See if the manual has been stamped when the car's been serviced, make sure it has a good service history. Drive round for a couple of miles, make sure the overtemp light doesn't come on. Then make sure the thermostat hasn't been pulled out ;) Check the oil, see it's not sludgy foamy.

Check the milage, and have a look at the interior - does it look like it's done the mileage stated, or does it look older/grubbier than you'd expect for a car of the age you're buying?
Do lights/indicators/horn work ok? Does the bonnet catch work?
Steering. Does it pull towards the left/right by a visible amount when you drive in a straight line? Are the brakes good and solid, do an emergency stop - safely.
#There's loads to look for, hope your mission goes well xxx

[Jonesya]

I'd say check all of the little functions/features - heater blower, wiper settings as faults on these can be missed.

Also check the mileage, when the next service is due and what is required - if it's a major and there's significant work required then it might be worth trying to get it included if it's due shortly.