Used Car Finance

What to consider when buying a second hand car

Let’s be honest, buying a second hand car can be risky if you’ve not done it before. But while you may be new to the game, buying a second-hand car doesn’t have to be a gamble.

You can greatly reduce the risk of purchasing a used vehicle, and buy with confidence, with a little research and a few simple checks.

Condition of the vehicle

If you’re buying your car from a local dealer, you should always inspect the vehicle thoroughly to ensure it’s in good condition.

Pay attention to the sound of the engine and check for any leaks under the bonnet. You should also give the car exterior a good inspection, keeping an eye out for any rust, scratches or dents.

Be sure to check the condition of the tyres too, ensuring the tread depth meets legal requirements. When taking the car for a test drive, test the vehicle at different speeds and listen for any unusual sounds. The clutch and brakes should feel responsive, and gear changes should be smooth.

Full service history

Choosing a vehicle with a full service history is one of the best ways to minimise the risk when buying a used car. With a full service history you can see exactly what work has been carried out, as well as when and where it was completed.

This will help you to gain a better understanding of the vehicle you’re buying, and provide an insight into any big expenses that may be lurking around the corner.

For example, most cars require a new timing belt every 75,000 to 100,000 miles which can be expensive. If your car has a full service history, you can check whether the timing belt has been changed at this time.

If it hasn’t, you can look to budget for the cost – or shop around for a car that has.

Vehicle HPI check

Before you buy a used car on finance, you should always carry out a full HPI check. This is to ensure there are no issues with the vehicle that could cause you problems later down the line.

For example, part of the check ensures your car has not been previously stolen or received any police complaints. A HPI check normally costs around £40, but can save you thousands if the car turns out to be stolen, has accident damage, or any outstanding finance against it.

How we help you buy with confidence

If you’d like professional help finding a second hand car, our expert car buying team will search our network of trusted dealers to find you the perfect vehicle.

You can be confident in the car you’re buying, Creditplus will fully vet the vehicle and dealership to ensure you’re getting a great deal. We’ll let you know the MOT status including recent history, service history, warranty status, ensure the vehicle hasn’t been written off or stolen, vet the dealership and let you know whether there are any potential dealership issues to be made aware of such as bad reviews, negative trading history or regulatory concerns

Finally, if you’re looking for that extra peace of mind we provide the option to purchase a Creditplus vehicle warranty which is backed by A1 Approved, which covers all vehicles. And with the knowledge that a covered component is protected against unforeseen mechanical faults, you can be reassured that costs will be taken care of.