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Six important questions to ask when buying your first used car
The used car market is booming following the demand for semiconductors to make new cars. However, used cars are easily attainable dreams for the buyers and to enjoy the trendy features within the hard-earned money.
It’s common for brand new vehicles to lose their value as soon as they leave the showroom, so it’s not a cost-effective alternative if you’re looking for a long-term car.
Here are a few things to ask the seller during the negotiation.

Six questions to confirm with the seller
Regardless of whether you are buying the car from a dealer or private seller, it is important to know the used car value and its history. Make sure you walk out of the deal if you realize something is wrong.
Before that, if you have any suspicions, you can ask the seller directly about his condition.
Is the vehicle taxed and insured?
It is important to check that the vehicle has been declared as a Legally Required All Terrain Vehicle (SORN), which means that no taxes and insurance have been paid for the vehicle. The car is not eligible to be driven on UK roads. If you bought the car without knowing its tax and insurance status, you will have to pay the money for it.
Did it pass the last TÜV test?
Any vehicle over three years old in the UK should pass an MOT. A few minor errors and repairs lead to the failure of the TÜV. You need to analyze the MOT of the vehicle because you may end up spending a lot of money to buy this vehicle unknowingly. (Note: Under no circumstances should you buy a vehicle unless it has a good MOT history.)
What was the exact mileage of the car?
If you are interested in the vehicle you saw, the first thing to do is look for the mileage. Check the odometer for the recorded mileage. Also, nowadays it’s free to check if the mileage has been tampered with or clocked.
A vehicle’s mileage directly affects its value on the road. Many cars in the UK are reported to be clocked and have hidden histories. Are you looking for a cheap car data examiner that will reveal a vehicle’s full hidden history.
Is the log real?
There is a possibility that the seller will attempt to provide the fake logbook if the vehicle is stolen or financed, even if it is marked as high risk.
Also, the V5C logbook is the only way to check the number of owners and the vehicle’s service history. Sometimes the car may be underfunded. It is vital because if the car has pending finance, the registered keeper is the finance company. Then it becomes illegal to buy or sell without the consent of the finance company. (Note: If the vehicle does not have a V5C, do not proceed with the deal.)
Have you taken a car for a test drive?
After all, a test drive is the only way to know if the car has been well maintained before. If you don’t know much about cars, bring a friend or family member who does. They will accompany you throughout the test and ask questions that you might overlook if you were alone. Getting a second opinion is always beneficial.
Seek the help of a mechanic:
Inspect the vehicle by hiring a trusted mechanic near your location. It is the best way to determine if the car has any damage including all parts including tyres, mirrors, hood, interior and exterior body. You’ll have to pay at least £200 for a full inspection, but it’s worth it.
If you’ve bought your ideal car and are looking for ways to maintain it, read Car Care Tips for New Drivers for ideas on maintaining and extending the life of your vehicle.