Would it be stupid to buy a car without viewing it?

vmp

I'm after a new car. I don't really have the time or inclination to go around viewing cars if I can get away with it.


This was my plan:

• Read reviews, look on Auto Trader, find what I want
• Ring the dealership, see what sort of discount, if any, I can get
• Arrange an AA vehicle inspection (I definitely wouldn't skip this)
• If happy with that, arrange payment and have the dealership deliver the car

Is this a really bad idea? If so, why? Or should the AA vehicle inspection provide enough peace of mind?

thistledome

But what if you just don't like the car, or don't find it comfy?

I wouldn't do it. (actually I did once buy a car without viewing - on ebay - and I never would again, it was carp).

Stigy

vmp wrote: »

I'm after a new car. I don't really have the time or inclination to go around viewing cars if I can get away with it.



This was my plan:

• Read reviews, look on Auto Trader, find what I want
• Ring the dealership, see what sort of discount, if any, I can get
• Arrange an AA vehicle inspection (I definitely wouldn't skip this)
• If happy with that, arrange payment and have the dealership deliver the car

Is this a really bad idea? If so, why? Or should the AA vehicle inspection provide enough peace of mind?

It's always nice to view a car first, although an AA or RAC inspection will certainly mean there's no mechanical issues with the car. Being from a dealership, too, you'll have at least a little bit more comeback should it fall apart, than you would buying privately! I would personally look at cars, afteral, you might hate it (even if reviews are all good!). Also, it's a good idea to meet the dealer in person....just in case his name's Ron Duff from Duff Motors!

thistledome

Stigy wrote: »

Also, it's a good idea to meet the dealer in person....just in case his name's Ron Duff from Duff Motors!

Ron? Yeah, he's terrible. Stephen is OK though

http://www.stephenduff.co.nz/

richardvc

vmp wrote: »

I'm after a new car. I don't really have the time or inclination to go around viewing cars if I can get away with it.



This was my plan:

• Read reviews, look on Auto Trader, find what I want
• Ring the dealership, see what sort of discount, if any, I can get
• Arrange an AA vehicle inspection (I definitely wouldn't skip this)
• If happy with that, arrange payment and have the dealership deliver the car

Is this a really bad idea? If so, why? Or should the AA vehicle inspection provide enough peace of mind?

Awful idea - madness !!

Are you after new or used ? If new you don't need the AA and if used you absolutely must see it and then get the AA to have a look dependent on age etc

yellowmonkey

Brought my car off EBay with no viewing



























4 years ago

vmp

richardvc wrote: »

Awful idea - madness !!

Are you after new or used ? If new you don't need the AA and if used you absolutely must see it and then get the AA to have a look dependent on age etc

Used.

I would definitely get it inspected by the AA. With that in mind, why is it madness?

Stigy

vmp wrote: »

Used.

I would definitely get it inspected by the AA. With that in mind, why is it madness?

How tall are you? Certain cars are fine if you're 5'8" but terrible if you're 6'0"...

missile

You need to test drive a car to see if it is suitable for you. Reports in motor mags vary and on top gear, those "experts" never agree on which model is best.

mcjordi

i bought my current fiesta off ebay without looking but as it was spares or repair but it was better than i expected..

Stigy

mcjordi wrote: »

i bought my current fiesta off ebay without looking but as it was spares or repair but it was better than i expected..

I bough an old Mondeo as it was advertised as "needs work"....Other than a tatty condition, the only work it needed was to the rear wash/wipe! Talk about what NOT to put in an advert if you want to sell a car! Only paid £200 too!