There are plenty of options available to those looking to invest in a used car in Birmingham and the surrounding area. Let’s take a look at how you might narrow the search, and negotiate the best possible deal.
Where to buy used cars in Birmingham
Shopping for a used car typically means choosing between a number of different types of sellers. There are online brokers that tend to offer superior prices but don’t allow you to inspect or test-drive your prospective purchase. Then there are reputable, approved used dealers, which will charge slightly more, but which will offer you peace of mind.
But if you’re going to get the best possible deal, it might be worth casting your net slightly further. There are significant differences in the price and quality of what’s on offer depending on where you are in the country, and by travelling just a few miles, you might find that you can track down a superior deal.
For example, you might venture away from the city centre, toward car dealerships in Cannock, or in wider Staffordshire.
Things to check
Before you hand over the cash, you’ll want to make sure that you’re satisfied with the vehicle. This means inspecting thoroughly, with an eye on a few specific parts of the car.
Look at the engine. What’s the oil level like? What about the smoke coming out of the exhaust? The bodywork, too, might provide clues as to the sort of use that the vehicle has gotten. Check the underside with a torch, too.
If you have the ability to test drive, then do it across roads of several different sorts. You should be paying particular attention to the steering wheel. Is it responsive, with a consistent, smooth feel around the entire circumference? What about the suspension?
Questions to ask
Used dealers should be able to come up with convincing answers to a range of common questions. By asking them, you’ll be able to rule out potential disaster before it strikes.
First, you’ll need to know how old the vehicle is. This is often indicated by the number plate – but this might not be obvious if the plates are personalised. Use the Vehicle Identification Number to see if everything checks out. You might do the same thing with the odometer. This will help you to establish whether the registered car is the one you’re actually being sold.
You might check also whether any key parts have been replaced, or whether the vehicle has been modified. Inspect the parts in question. You might also have a mechanic look at the vehicle to check whether the work has been done competently.