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

Hintza wrote: »

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.