Companies on Autotrader?

ironlady2022

I'm looking for my first car and went the other day to a 'trade' company selling a Kia, Picanto (13000 miles, 09 plate for £4k). Just wondering if Autotrader has approved these small dealers? As it looked a bit dodgy? The place had a gate which they electronically had to open for you to enter and the car was unbelievebly cheap compared to similar models.

I definitely would not buy private as it's too risky but wanted to be on the safe side.

motorguy

mayling03 wrote: »

I'm looking for my first car and went the other day to a 'trade' company selling a Kia, Picanto (13000 miles, 09 plate for £4k). Just wondering if Autotrader has approved these small dealers? As it looked a bit dodgy? The place had a gate which they electronically had to open for you to enter and the car was unbelievebly cheap compared to similar models.

I definitely would not buy private as it's too risky but wanted to be on the safe side.

It doesnt seem that cheap. Sounds about right to be honest.

I guess you cant have a large glossy showroom AND cheaper prices though?

Autotrader will take anybody's money for adverts - they do no checking.

shelene

Unless your buying additional warranty I pretty much reackon you take the same risk with a 'dealer' as a private seller, unless the dealer comes recommended.

Sometimes you can check out reviews online about the dealer to check if they have a bad reputation and disgruntled customers.

Ensure you check the car over thoughly even if it has a full MOT and take it on a long test drive before you buy it if you can, double check what is under warranty and what is not.

Good luck with your car buying x

Lithian

Sounds more upmarket than some places i've seen

The advantage you get buying from a trader over a private seller is the trader is bound by the sale of goods act. Basicly this puts the onus on the trader to ensure the item you purchased is fit for use, its not a lot but can be useful. However a dodgy trader can just tie you up in argumentative knots and once enough complaints come through from trading standards disolve the company and have a new one trading under a different name the next week leaving you without a leg to stand on.

You do pay a premium to use a trader for this peace of mind, if you do not believe you will get this then there is no difference to buying privately, at least you usually get a decent cup of tea when buying privately

Okay, I don't mean to scare you off traders, I'm sure there are many many more legit ones than dodgy ones and a quick net search should pull up any glaring problems (and fake positive reviews are pretty easy to spot)

attila_

The worst "dealer" i bought from met me in a housing estate (neutral ground) where he said he was just passing by and to meet him there.

Needless to say I took a big mate. Tested the car, bought in cash and lasted 4 excellent years before we sold it.

forgotmyname

I think a member on here Kilty?? Paid a little more than that for a brand new one.

So getting on for 3 years old, Its not that cheap.

Having gate to enter the compound is not a problem, Ive been to plenty of strange places to look at cars.
I guess you have to find somewhere with decent space but cheap as possible.

One place near oldham was in what looked like a multistorey carpark. Separated into units, Ramps up and down still in use.

Alleyways between houses with yards at the rear etc.