Used Car Buying Tips - Private Sale

I think it's commonly assumed that car salesmen /give-away that that the vehicle has been 'tinkered
women are not exactly the most ethical businesswith', usually by an amateur. As are stereo speakers
operators on the planet.that once belonged to The Grateful Dead.
In fact, the general consensus is that they couldn't lay· If you have any friends, take one with you.
straight in bed.Preferably one that knows a lot about cars.
Whether or not I personally believe that this is true, I· Kicking the tyres is NOT a scientifically
am not prepared to say, but I will say this, "I don't thinkproven way of ascertaining the roadworthiness of a
I'd give one of them my wallet to hold while I wentvehicle.
swimming".· Never look at a used car on a rainy day. Yes,
For this reason, a lot of people choose to 'buyI'm serious! The rain could hide subtle differences in the
privately'.paint that would show that the car has had panel
This is not without its drawbacks.damage.
So, here are a few 'tips' to use when looking to buy a· It may cost a bob or two, but consider a
used car from a shady looking character with a bushyVehicle Inspection by an independent used car
black beard and more tattoos than the Illustrated Man.inspection person. Most Motoring Clubs have facilities
Or from a Little Old Lady that only used the car onfor this. Check your 'phone book, it's holding up the
Sundays to go to church.table with the short leg.
· Always try to buy the latest model, (with the· ALWAYS check with your State
lowest mileage on the clock), that you are able toGovernment Vehicle Authority. This will reassure you
afford.that the used car has not been reported stolen, still has
· Check to see if the car has a log book. If not,money owing on it, been 'written off' by an insurance
why not?company or if unpaid fines have caused the
· Make sure the person selling the car actuallyregistration to be cancelled.
OWNS the car. This can be quite helpful as it will helpThere, that's a good start, isn't it?
you to avoid the police confiscating the car and tossingOf course, there's a lot more information available that
you in the pokey.I won't go into here, but I WILL tell you where to go.
· It's not a bad idea to casually ask WHY theyTo get the information, that is.....clivepraed.com/noripoffs
are selling the car.If you are buying privately, from a dealer or even
· Check for 'modifications'. Tyres that look likebuying a new car, always remember - they are out to
they belong on a combined harvester are usually aget you!