Used Car Tips

KNOW THE CAR YOU WANT

Find specific cars on-line before you head out to dealers. Should you find a suitable car on-line call ahead to verify that the car is still available. Nothing worse than to travel one hundred kilometres to find out that the car has been sold. KNOW WHAT THE CAR IS WORTH

When you have a specific car in mind, research its value on-line. Know your price.

ASK FOR RECORDS

Service records and a vehicle history report may not be iron-clad proof of a car`s past, but it will provide an indication on how the car has been serviced and looked after. Confirmation of important maintenance like a timing-chain gear, the clutch or other expensive work can be a bargaining tool and help you anticipate costs.

BE PREPARED TO WALK

You don`t have to get intense with negotiating, but stick within the price range you`re willing to spend. If that`s not going to your satisfaction, stay cool. Make sure the seller/dealer has your contact information and thank him or her for their time. If they don`t call your bluff and open negotiations again, so be it. At least you won`t have been pressured into accepting a disagreeable offer.

SHOP AT THE RIGHT TIME

It is often said that the best deals are at the end of the month, but there are other times when dealers can be more flexible. School holidays are generally slower as consumers are pre-occupied with their holiday arrangements.

GET MORE FOR YOUR MONEY

If price is a sticking point don`t be shy to negotiating with the dealer to include more for the price. With a private seller, that could be a full tank of petrol, an oil change or professional car valet. A dealer can do the same and more. All you have to do is ask, and the worst they can say is no.