Tips and Tricks for Buying Used Cars

Buying a used car for sale can be a tricky experience. Make sure you follow the steps outlined below before purchasing any used vehicle. Industry statistics show that almost three times as many people buy used cars as buy new.
To help consumers make informed decisions in the process, the experts at Motor Trade Websites and Cars Ceredigion have put together a basic list of the things to check when buying a used car.

1.Check the vehicle`s safety features.
Consider a vehicle with air bags and anti-lock brakes. Not only will they make a car safer, but insurance companies sometimes give discounts on their rates for cars with these features.

2. Inspect the mileage.
Mileage is a good indicator of the vehicle's age, and the average consumer will drive from 12,000 miles to 15,000 miles each year. A late model used car may be more cost-effective and come with many features you may not be able to afford in a new car.

3. Check the mechanical condition of the vehicle.
If you don't feel comfortable doing it yourself, have a mechanic you trust check it for you. Fluids, lights, belts, the charging system, the air conditioner, the engine cooling system, the brakes and the suspension should all be carefully inspected for any defects and wear. And don't forget to test drive the car.

4. Examine the tires
Uneven tread wear can be a sign that the car may need an alignment, or that it has damage to its suspension. Make sure the spare tire is in working condition with no damage or excessive wear.

5. Watch for frame damage.
Seriously damaged cars may be repaired, re-titled and sold in some cases, masking a vehicle that may not be structurally sound. When looking at a used car, check for:
- rust around the fenders and bumpers, around lights, under doors and in wheel wells
- cracks, dents and mismatched body panels.