Image representing Buying a Used Car for the First Time- The Ultimate Checklist

Buying a Used Car for the First Time- The Ultimate Checklist

Buying a used car can often prove to be a tricky experience. Whether you’re buying a used car for the first time or returning to driving after a period away, purchasing a new vehicle - albeit one which is second-hand - can prove daunting.

Thankfully, we’ve put together a list of all the aspects that you need to consider before buying a used car, and remember, here at Carsa we have a wide variety of used cars to check out today - so head on over to the website to see what we have in stock and find out more about buying a used car and about each individual model we have available.

Budget

Establishing a firm budget is a great place to start on the buying a used car journey. Remember, too, that it’s worth factoring all the costs associated with motoring into one overall cost, so take into account not only the price of the vehicle itself but what you’ll pay for insurance, tax, and general servicing. It’s easy to get price comparisons for most of these aspects, too, so do some research beforehand to get a clearer picture overall.

Setting a budget can help to avoid any disappointments further down the line when buying a used car.

Size and shape

Next, it’s time to think about what kind of car could best suit your needs. With so many types of second-hand cars available through Carsa today, picking a body style that could work for you can help avoid an overwhelming feeling later on when buying a used car. Think about how many people you usually transport, whether or not you attend any sports clubs with big, heavy equipment, and consider where you’re going to be driving the most.

For example, a hatchback could be a good option if you’re pushed for parking space, while an estate car offers a larger boot that can be great for holidays and adventures. SUVs are popular at the moment, too, largely because their increased ride height gives a greater sense of confidence - but think about what could work best for you when buying a used car.

Engine and gearbox

As you might expect, the engine and gearbox you choose when buying a used car have a big impact. If you’re new to driving, then you might want to consider a smaller engine, as it’ll bring lower insurance premiums as well as reduced running costs. Plus, smaller engines are often cheaper to fix should something go wrong. However, if you’re planning on doing a lot of motorway miles, then a slightly larger engine could be a better option, as they’ll bring a little more performance that can help to make those longer journeys feel a little easier.

Likewise, consider which type of gearbox you’ll need when buying a used car. Naturally, if you’ve done an automatic-only driving test, then you’ll be restricted to only automatic second-hand cars. However, if you’ve done a manual test, then you’re free to choose from both. Manual-gearbox cars tend to be cheaper and easier to maintain, but automatics are more relaxing in stop-start traffic and are often fitted to larger, more luxurious cars - though this isn’t a rule.

Equipment

It’s always nice to set a list of ‘must-haves’ when thinking of what to look for when buying a used car. Of course, more complex, high-end features will need to be reflected in your budget, but establishing a few set requirements can make the whole buying-a-used-car journey a little easier. For instance, do you need your car to have built-in satellite navigation or the ability to connect your smartphone to the car’s system via Bluetooth?

You’ll find clear information regarding the level of onboard equipment that any car has on every listing here at Carsa, but if you need any greater detail about any car that you’re looking at, then get in touch with one of the team today. They will answer any questions you may have about buying a used car.

Mileage

Mileage is another thing to consider when buying a used car. This is something that is often dictated by the type of car that you’re looking at. Smaller cars, for example, often have lower mileages as they’re only used for shorter trips around town, whereas larger executive-style models can have more miles on the clock since they’re used for longer journeys.

However, as long as any car has been well maintained, there’s not too much reason to be scared of high-mileage cars. That said, if you’re looking to hang on to your new car for quite a while - or plan on doing some long-distance trips frequently - then you may want to consider a lower-mileage car to compensate for the amount of use you’re planning to give it.

Buying a Used Car from Carsa

A car’s history gives a glimpse into how it has been treated. However, every car here at Carsa comes with a full mechanical check completed prior to listing, and you’re even able to download many of the vehicle’s key documents - such as its inspection record and HPI certificate - via the car’s listing, helping to give you a clearer picture about the backstory of any vehicle you’re looking at when buying a used car.

Plus, each car at Carsa comes with a three-month warranty to ensure that those first few miles behind the wheel of your new vehicle can be as hassle-free as possible.

We’ve got thousands of used cars to check out here at Carsa, so whether you’re a new driver looking for their first motor or a seasoned driver after a change, we’re sure to have an option for you. Contact us today to learn more about buying a used car!

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Finance Disclosure

Carsa Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, FCA Registered Number (FRN) 935130. Carsa Ltd is a Credit Broker not a Lender. It is our intention to provide a high level of service at all times. However if you have reason to make a complaint about our service you should contact customercare@carsa.co.uk. If we are unable to resolve your complaint satisfactorily, you may be entitled to refer the matter to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS). Further information is available by calling the FOS on 0845 080 1800 or visit https://www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk. You can check on the FCA's Register by visiting the FCA website www.fca.org.uk/register or by contacting the FCA on 0800 111 6768. Lenders typically pay a fixed commission to us for introducing you to them, calculated by reference to the vehicle model, product or amount you borrow. Different lenders may pay different commissions for such introductions. However, any such amounts lenders pay us will not affect the amount if interest you pay under your finance agreement, all of which are set by the lender concerned. At any time prior to concluding your vehicle purchase, if you are an individual, sole trader or small partnership, you are entitled to request details of any commission we will receive as a result of arranging your finance with a lender. Santander Consumer Finance also provide preferential rates to us for the funding of our vehicle stock.

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