NEWS
Top Tips on Buying a Car
As we ring in 2007, many drivers will now be considering changing their car; whether it is an upgrade or a new model (new 07 number plate). Below are just a few top tips to remember when considering purchasing a new vehicle.
• Shop around. Visit a number of different dealers to see what they have in your price range.
• Complete an HPI check on the vehicle before purchasing or signing any finance agreements.
• Get a few insurance quotes on the car before buying too, using the number plate if possible.
• Check the service history/MOT documents if they are available - look out for mileage discrepancies.
• Test-drive the vehicle and inspect the tyres and bodywork carefully.
• Ask whether the salesman/garage knows whether the car has been in an accident, is an import or has been written off by an insurance company at any stage.
• Be aware that if you are buying a second hand car there might be wear and tear issues, unlike with a new car.
• If you buy privately, you need to be extra careful and remember you have fewer legal rights.
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• Make sure you know the value of any vehicle you're thinking of trading in.
• Before you commit to buying a car, make sure you understand fully the conditions of sale and any finance agreement, including deposit terms and interest charges.
Consumer Direct a Government-funded national telephone and online consumer advice service that works in partnership with Local Authority Trading Standards Services received a total of 27,000 complaints about second hand cars bought from independent dealers between January and the end of September in 2006.
Some 19,230 (70%) of the cases were about defective vehicles, with another 4,546 complaints (16.7%) about misleading claims or verbal misrepresentation.
A car buyers' guide, outlining the main pitfalls and issues to consider, is available online at the Consumer Direct website, www.consumerdirect.gov.uk or  click here
For more clear, practical consumer advice, call Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 or visit www.consumerdirect.gov.uk.
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