A Helpful Guide to Buying a Used Car

Cost savings: Used cars generally come with a lower price tag than their brand-new alternatives. The money saved by buying a used car can be used to upgrade to a higher trim or a more luxurious model than you might be able to afford if you were buying new.

Lower depreciation: New cars depreciate quite quickly, losing a significant portion of their value in the first few years. Used cars have already undergone this initial depreciation. This means they may retain their value better over time.

Lower insurance costs: Insurance premiums are often lower for used cars compared to brand-new cars.

Wider selection: Buying used allows you to choose from a wider variety of makes, models, years, and features.

 

What type of car do you need?

When choosing your car, it's crucial to think about the type of vehicle that best suits your needs. This includes considering the number of passengers it will regularly need to carry and the types of journeys you will regularly be doing.

If you primarily drive in urban areas a compact hatchback or supermini might be ideal. These cars are easy to manoeuvre and park and are often fuel-efficient due to their size.

For families or those who require more boot space, an SUV or an MPV provides ample room and versatility. These often seat up to seven or eight passengers and offer significant cargo-carrying capacity.

If you frequently drive in rugged conditions or enjoy off-road adventures, an SUV with all-wheel drive, or a 4x4 could be the perfect match.

If you need advice on the best car for your needs, visit your local dealership and a member of our team canassist you further.

 

When buying a used car, what mileage is best?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer for this, as it depends on factors such as the make, model, and maintenance history.

The mileage of a used car can provide an indication of wear and tear. Generally, a lower mileage suggests less use and a longer potential remaining lifespan. However, mileage should be considered alongside the car's age and maintenance history. A well-maintained vehicle with higher mileage might be a better choice than a low-mileage car that has been neglected. Typically, a good benchmark for a used car is around 10,000 - 12,000 miles per year.

For more information, chat with a member of our team.

 

 

What are my financing options when buying a used car?

There are several ways to finance your used car. You can choose to buy the vehicle outright using your own cash, or with money from a personal bank loan. Alternatively, you can apply for car finance which allows you to spread the cost over monthly instalments. The most common types of car finance are:

For more information, check out our finance explained guide, or get in touch with our expert team.

 

What do I need to do before I drive away?

Before driving your car away, it’s essential to arrange comprehensive insurance. The insurance will need to start from the date you pick up the car, as there is no grace period. You'll need to provide the necessary details about the car and your driving history and shop around for the best deal.

You don't need to worry about road tax - at Macklin Motors, we will sort this for you.

You may want to consider adding a service plan to your vehicle as well. This covers servicing, parts, labour, and MOTs, to spread the cost of your vehicle maintenance.

Remember to keep all documentation for your new car safe, so you can refer back to it when needed.

 

What questions to ask when buying a used car

You may want to ask the Sales Executive some of the following questions, for your knowledge and peace of mind.

Vehicle history

What documents should I get when buying a used car?

When buying a used car, it's essential to ensure you receive all the necessary documents to verify the car's history, legality, and condition. Here’s a list of the key documents you should obtain:

V5C logbook: This document shows the registered keeper of the vehicle.

MOT certificate: This confirms the car meets road safety and environmental standards (if it is over three years old).

Service history: A full-service history indicates that the car has been regularly maintained.

Vehicle handbook: This is sometimes called the owner's manual. It provides information on the car's features, service schedule, and operating procedures.

Warranty information: If there is any remaining warranty on the vehicle, ensure you get the relevant documents.

HPI report: This details if the car has any outstanding finance, has been stolen, written off, or has a mileage discrepancy.

Receipts for maintenance work: Any recent repairs, part replacements, or new tyres should be documented.

By ensuring you receive all these documents, you can have confidence in your used car purchase.

Do you get a V5 when you buy a used car?

Yes, once the sale has been processed, you should receive your new V5C logbook in the post within a few days. Your Sales Executive will organise this for you. If you have any queries, you can contact the DVLA.

Discover your ideal car at Macklin Motors

If you're ready to buy a used car, start your online search today, browse our best deals, or visit your local dealership to explore our extensive range.