Saving up to buy your first car or upgrade your existing model?
Make sure you look into these four areas before deciding to buy to ensure you get a great deal and a car that fits your priorities and lifestyle.
1. Car Types and Fuel Options
With the effects of global warming becoming ever-apparent, sustainability is front of mind for many of us.
However, green vehicle technology is still relatively new, and concerns over infrastructure, performance and costs are driving a debate as to whether now is the right time to invest in an electric vehicle.
When it comes to car types, you have three options (available new or used): a fuel-powered car, a hybrid model, or an EV.
Review your lifestyle, for example ensuring an EV could manage your mileage, and prioritise key factors like cost. You should also include wider considerations such as the planned phasing out of new petrol and diesel cars in your decision-making.
2. Wider Ownership Costs
When looking at available cars, bear in mind that the cost is more than the vehicle sale price.
You’ll also need to arrange annual insurance cover, manage tax payments and fund regular servicing to ensure your car is performing efficiently and avoid expensive emergency repairs.
If you’re buying a fuel-powered car, research how often you’ll need to fill up and the approximate cost.
Charging should be much more affordable, but you’ll need to consider the cost of installing a charging point at home if you opt for an EV. There are government grants available to help fund the purchase and installation of an EV charging point at residential properties.
3. Different Buying Channels
There are several ways to buy a car in the UK, each with different pros and cons:
Dealership
Going through a dealership means you can have confidence in quality. Most vehicles are new, and any used vehicles have been thoroughly serviced. However, you could end up paying premium prices.
Online Platforms
You benefit from competitive retail prices and a nationwide vehicle selection, but arranging viewings can be challenging.
Private Sales
This is often an avenue to a great deal, but you’ll likely be placing trust in someone without vehicle expertise. Bear in mind that, unless you’re buying from someone you know, the seller could be concealing issues that will be expensive to fix further down the line.
Make sure you’re checking all channels to get an idea of average prices and availability, and go with what makes you most comfortable, whether that’s buying from a friend or the peace of mind of a dealership sale.
4. Essential Vehicle Checks
Before you commit to your car, ensure you’ve carried out the essential checks. Investigating the vehicle’s background with an MOT history check sheds light on past maintenance and potential future issues.
You should also analyse the service book and make sure they have all ownership paperwork like the VC5.
When viewing the car, look for signs of internal wear and tear as well as checking the tyres, bodywork and lights. Always test drive the vehicle in a safe environment before signing on the dotted line so you get a feel for performance.
There’s no point saving on a cheap car that will be costly in terms of fuel efficiency and maintenance.
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