An investment should never be rushed – especially if it’s a car. In the following guide, we’ve outlined five crucial things to consider when you’re looking for your next motor investment.
1: The paperwork
Regardless of whether the car is brand new or a vintage classic, it needs to come with the correct documentation. Look out for an authentic V5C, known as the vehicle logbook, alongside the service book, manuals, and a valid MOT test certificate.
If you’re unsure about any of the documents above, it’s important to familiarise yourself with them before heading out to buy your car. You need to be as informed as possible to reduce the risk of a fraudulent or dishonest sale.
2: The price
When you start shopping around for a new car, it’s crucial to make sure you can find one within your price range. In the months leading up to viewing cars for the first time, make sure to budget appropriately.
It could also be a good idea to save a little bit more than you think you’ll need – just in case you spot something truly special.
3: Test drive
Never commit to buying a car you’ve found online without driving it first. The test drive is arguably the most important part of the process, helping you know for certain that you’ll be able to drive the car comfortably and confidently.
The test drive should also present you with an opportunity to ask the seller a few questions in person. If you hear an unexpected noise, for example, the current owner won’t be able to ignore any of your queries from behind the wheel.
4: Bodywork
Don’t get carried away with enthusiasm for a car without thoroughly checking its external condition first. Bodywork condition is not only critical to the attractiveness of the car but could also contribute significantly to its overall safety and reliability.
Along with looking closely at the panels, bumpers, and wheel arches, you should check the tyres. Preferably, they should be manufactured by a trusted, leading brand and exceed the legal limit for tread depth.
Be aware of scratches and dents too. These might seem innocent, but some scratches run deeper than the paint and could be costly to repair.
5: Owner history
Lastly, it’s also a sensible idea to consider the recent ownership of the car. Has it been passed between various drivers who haven’t kept it for long, or has it been adored and maintained by one careful owner for a long time?
Although not the most imperative factor, guessing how a car has been looked after could be an indication of its ability to appreciate in the future – which is an important aspect of a worthwhile investment.
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