A Girl’s Guide to Buying a Used Car

Buying a used car can be an intimidating experience, for any gender. Sadly, if you're female, there are a few extra challenges. Even if you're knowledgeable about motors, walking into a used car showroom is a taxing endeavour. The salesman may assume you're just after a car that's a pretty colour, and convincing them otherwise is an experience most buyers would rather do without.

Try the following tips to reduce the stress of buying a car.

Do Your Research

Check online before you go to the showroom. If you have an idea of what make and model of car you want, or even just what type you want, it will help in your shopping efforts. Make a mental note of the online price of those cars, and have an idea of what extras different dealers offer so that you can use that information in your bargaining.

Know Your Budget

Have a firm budget in mind when you go to the dealer, and stick to it. Even if you really like a car, don't let the dealer know that. If you're trying to barter, you have to look like you're willing to walk away.

If you're part exchanging an old vehicle, find out what it's worth online before you take it for exchange. Your local dealer may want to undercut any online offer, so don't get your hopes up too much for a massive trade-in discount.

Find a Reputable Dealer

Ask around to see where other people got their cars from. They may know of a good dealer, or even a friend that is selling a good car privately. In general, buying through a dealer is safer than a private seller, but if you are confident that you can trust the private seller then you can often get a good deal.

Brush up on Terminology

If you aren't a car lover, some of the jargon thrown around by dealers can be confusing. A few minutes brushing up on common terms will make life easier at the dealer. Take a knowledgeable friend with you if you think you might need assistance.

Check the Car's History

Don't be shy about getting a history check carried out on any vehicle you're considering buying. Checks can be done quite quickly, and will help you to determine whether the vehicles ownership history is accurate, and whether there are any accidents in the car's past.

Consider Added Extras

Instead of buying a relatively new car, consider buying a slightly older one, and looking at cherished number plates for sale, or adding leather interiors or electronic extras. A few luxurious extras inside your vehicle can make driving it a much more comfortable experience, and cheap private number plates can make any vehicle look that little bit more impressive.

Older vehicles tend to depreciate more slowly, and if they are well looked after, they can be just as reliable as slightly newer models. The money you save by buying an older vehicle can go on luxury extras.

This article was written by James Harper.