Questions to ask when buying a used car

A used car is a great option for those looking to buy a car on a budget, those who are looking for their first car or are looking to upgrade to a higher-spec model. After browsing around for a car you like, it's important to purchase your car from a trusted car dealer so that you can drive away with complete peace of mind.

A dealer knows the history of the car.

Who the previous owner was and how the car was used previously could impact your decision on purchasing the vehicle. Purchasing a car that was previously owned by a travelling salesman in comparison to someone who works from home could mean the car has been used a lot more. The car could therefore have more issues or normal wear and tear.

By purchasing a used car from a dealer, you are ensuring that the car you are looking at has already gone through rigorous safety and aesthetic checks before making it onto the forecourt and that as much history as possible has been collected on the vehicle so you have as much information as possible to help make your decision.

A dealer will have the relevant paperwork for you.

A used car could come with alot of paperwork. By choosing a dealership over a private seller, a dealer will already have the vehicle's logbook (V5C document) and possibly a service document to go along with it (though these are sometimes online so it's always best to ask). Without the V5C document, you won't be able to tax the car to drive away.

A dealer will know when the car was last serviced.

A car may have been sitting idle for a while. By opting to purchase from a dealership, you can be sure that the car is regularly checked over and maintained to ensure that it is in the best working condition for purchase.

At Chapelhouse, every used car has been serviced within the last 6 months. If it is over 6 months, it is serviced at a Chapelhouse Motor Group service centre before delivery. This means that you can be sure you are receiving a car that is in the best possible condition.

A dealer will know when the car was last MOT'd

If a car is more than 3 years old, you'll need to check that it has a current MOT certificate. This will give you an insight into any problems there might be with the car and give you a good idea of how roadworthy the car is.

A private seller may not have this information or may not have used a reputable garage for the cars MOT, by choosing a dealership for your purchase, you can be sure that the car has been MOT by a trained specialist.

Every used car from Chapelhouse Motor Group comes with a minimum of 9 months MOT. If a used car has less than 6 months MOT, it is tested before being delivered.

When is the MOT due?

If a car is more than 3 years old, you'll need to check that it has a current MOT certificate. This will give you an insight into any problems there might be with the car and give you a good idea of how roadworthy the car is.

You can check a car's MOT history using the registration number of the car and running it through an online checker.

Every used car from Chapelhouse Motor Group comes with a minimum of 9 months MOT. If a used car has less than 6 months MOT, it is tested before being delivered.

A dealer will know if your car comes with a warranty

Used cars can come with varying warranties. These can depend on the age of the car, the manufacturer and where the car has been serviced.

A dealership will work to keep a cars warranty in tact where possible, compared to  a private seller who may not be as concerned. By choosing a car from a dealership with a warranty, you could be saving yourself money on repairs in the long run.

All our cars come with a selection of warranties and guarantees. There are also highly competitive extended warranties available. Contact your nearest branch for further information. If you need extra peace of mind, we can help you choose the ideal used car guarantee.

Our approved used car range offers approved used cars with up to 6 years warranty. As a franchised dealer for Kia, MG, and Suzuki, we have a great selection of manufacturer approved cars with the balance of the manufacturer warranty still available along with the added bonus of other great benefits.

A dealer will check a car's tyres.

The law states that a car cannot be driven if the tread of a tyre is less than 1.6mm in depth, roughly the depth of the outside of a 20p. Ideally, tyres should have 3mm of tread. It is important to check this as it is illegal to drive with anything less.

A private seller may not consider the tyres before letting you purchase the car and could inadvertently let you drive off in a car that is breaking the law.

Every used car at Chapelhouse Motor Group comes with a minimum 3mm tyre tread. If any vehicle has less than 3mm tread, then the tyres are replaced before you take the car home.

A dealer can offer finance options.

The chances are that private sales will want the whole price of the car upfront before letting you drive it away. This can make getting a car more difficult as saving the whole amount can take a while.

By choosing a dealership, a sales member will be able to work out a car finance option that works for you and your budget, allowing you to pay for the car in planned chunks over a set amount of time, meaning you will probably only need a small deposit to drive away and you'll be getting a great deal!