If you are in the market to buy used cars (Brugte biler is the term in Danish), you will face two situations. The first is that you may feel that you are running into a sea of sellers and dealers who promise one thing and deliver another. Alternatively, you may meet genuine sellers and dealers who are friendly and offer you a good deal. Unfortunately, there is no easy way to differentiate between these two types unless you go and meet them. Today, we will share with you tips and guiding points that will help you spot the genuine sellers from the unscrupulous ones.
Before you step out to meet the seller, inform them that you will need the below details to run a background check on the used cars being sold.
1. Registration number and the V5 number
These numbers are important to confirm the registration details of the car. Without these numbers, it will be difficult to validate the ownership of the car.
2. VIN number
VIN number is a unique number assigned to every car. This number once assigned cannot be assigned to another car. You will be able to check if the car given the VIN number and the car advertised are the same.
3. Details of the mechanics who have serviced the car
This number will help you speak to the mechanics that were responsible for the maintenance of the vehicle. This will help you understand the state of the vehicle and its repair history.
If any seller refuses to provide this information, then you should not deal with that seller. Once you get these details, you will need to check the MOT details online. The simple way to do this is to go to the MOT (Ministry of Transport) website and verify all details of the car. You can check the below information on the website.
1. Check for the distance clocked year on year. The number of miles should increase and not vary. Any deviation in this data indicates a problem with the vehicle like a faulty speedometer.
2. Check the testing details of the vehicle. The MOT testing data should match the age of the vehicle.
3. Check if the testing threw up any rectification needed. Next, check if the subsequent testing showed the same rectifications or if the earlier rectifications were looked after.
Once you are satisfied with the history of the car, it is time to check on the actual vehicle. The best way to do this is to ask the seller to bring the vehicle to your local garage. The other option is to ask the seller to take the vehicle to their garage and you can take your mechanic to examine the vehicle.
The examination of the used cars should start from the inside. Start the vehicle and check if all the lights on the instrument panel come on. Check every single component inside the vehicle. Start with the air conditioner and check if it works properly; check the windows and see if they open and close without any resistance; check the headlights, the sidelights and the turning signal.
Next, check the seats if there are any cuts or if the wires attaching the seat belt to the seats are worn out. Look for any signs if the vehicle was involved in any accident. Finally, check if the steering mechanism is working properly.
The next part of the vehicle that should be examined should be under the hood of the vehicle. Start by checking the oil level. Check if there is any sediment in the oil cap. Check the level of the coolant; the level of the brake fluid; the level of the water in the box for the wipers. Then check the battery for rust and crack. Finally, check for leaks near the engine and under the vehicle.
The final examination is the outside of the car. Start by checking the body for dents and cracks. Check the VIN number and the number on the number plate. Check the paint for an equal finish around the vehicle. There should be no bubbles on the paint. Finally, check the tires for wear and tear. If any set of tires has an unequal wear and tear, it will indicate problems in the suspension system.
Finally, check the actual papers of the vehicle and if it is the original paperwork. All the details should match.
Remember that you should have everything rectified and the car should be given to you in pristine condition. I think this guide will help you buy used cars if you are on your way to do so.
