We'd like to remind Forumites to please avoid political debate on the Forum. This is to keep it a safe and useful space for MoneySaving discussions. Threads that are - or become - political in nature may be removed in line with the Forum’s rules. Thank you for your understanding.

Need buying a car advice

secretj_2
secretj_2 Posts: 32 Forumite
Hi there,

I've only 15 more lessons to go till my driving test to past but thought it would be a good idea to start learning about cars and where I should buy my very first car.

I m planning to buy a 'second hand' Ford Ka as I have heard they are cheap, realiable and a good first car to have but I haven't got a clue where to buy?? Im guessing its more expensive buying from a dealership but if I buy from a private seller I might get ripped off as I don't know anything about cars and don't know anyone who knows them better then me. Im tempted to buy from ebay but I might get ripped off from there too.

Is there a service where I can ask some one to check out the motor? And is it better buying from a auction as I have been told they check the cars out make sure they are in order to sell? Or is there a course I can go on to learn about this stuff?

Please help me!!!!

Comments

  • DavidHM
    DavidHM Posts: 481 Forumite
    What's your budget?
    Debt at highest: September 2003 - £26,350 :eek:
    Debt now: £14,100 :rolleyes:
    Debt free day: October 2008 :beer:
  • secretj_2
    secretj_2 Posts: 32 Forumite
    The max would be £2000
  • aj3001
    aj3001 Posts: 730 Forumite
    Take someone with you that knows what they are doing.

    As for checks, you could HPI the car which costs around £30 and willl tell you if its been stolen/writen off
  • secretj_2
    secretj_2 Posts: 32 Forumite
    I don't know anyone who knows about cars I've asked a few guys I know and they are useless with cars.

    Could I go to a local garage and ask a mechanic to come with me to inspect a car or is that a silly idea?
  • balsingh
    balsingh Posts: 1,494 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Name Dropper Combo Breaker
    No harm in taking a mechanic. However, the mechanic will charge you for your time. The other option is to arrange an inspection through the AA or RAC.
    If you found my comment helpful, please click the 'Thanks' button below :T
  • marty12
    marty12 Posts: 20 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10 Posts Combo Breaker
    dont forget as a new driver high insurance costs so look to buy something with a low insurance bracket about 2 or 3 maybe 1.0 corsa or micra and try to build up some no claims bonus ask around someone must have a friend/relative who works as a mechanic to advise you
  • tali
    tali Posts: 709 Forumite
    autotrader private ads would be best and small traders are cheap as they have a high turnaround due to shortage of space but - these small traders do know the "tricks of the trade"
This discussion has been closed.
Meet your Ambassadors

🚀 Getting Started

Hi new member!

Our Getting Started Guide will help you get the most out of the Forum

Categories

  • All Categories
  • 348.6K Banking & Borrowing
  • 252.3K Reduce Debt & Boost Income
  • 452.5K Spending & Discounts
  • 241.3K Work, Benefits & Business
  • 617.8K Mortgages, Homes & Bills
  • 175.8K Life & Family
  • 254.5K Travel & Transport
  • 1.5M Hobbies & Leisure
  • 16.1K Discuss & Feedback
  • 15.1K Coronavirus Support Boards

Is this how you want to be seen?

We see you are using a default avatar. It takes only a few seconds to pick a picture.