Tips for buying your first car

Sponsored post - I have been learning to drive for a year now, compared to my friends I have left it a lot later in life being 25, everyone rushes to learn at 17 but not me, Instead I was happy to use public transport and rely on my family to take me everywhere. But now I'm getting closer to the big 30, I've started thinking about the future and driving is really a necessity for taking future children places and getting from A to B. Once I started learning I was really excited to buy my first car, and there were various factors to consider...



Money

I must admit money for me was a major factor, I have a full time job, blog part time and earn a decent living but as I'm not a car fanatic, I didn't
 want to spend a load of my hard earned money, so when I was searching for a car, my budget was just over £1000. This may not seem loads to some people but you can get a decent car for that amount and because I went through a private seller, I was able to get mine for less. I was not only thinking of the cost to buy the vehicle itself, I was also thinking of the parts in the future if something goes wrong as parts for some models are much more expensive than others.

Test Drive

If you go and see a car, remember to ask to test drive the car it might look immaculate form the outside but once you take it for a drive there could be hidden problems. Another reason to test drive is to get a feel for the car and see if it's the right fit for you.


History of the car

It's really important when buying a car to research it's history, this includes its MOT and service history plus its previous owners. Luckily in the UK we can check out a cars history just with its number plate via the GOV website. In addition Cars.com is a great website for learning about cars, they have a videos & review feature so whether you're more of a visual person or like to read about cars, there is content to suit everyone.
Used Car vs New Car

Whether it's a brand new or used car, you want the best car to suit you. I know myself I didn't
 want to spend a lot on my first car because I know after you pass your test you're still learning and getting to know new roads so silly mistakes can happen, therefore a used car was the best option for me. But maybe in a years time I will want a new car something that lasts me a lot longer, has no previous owner and better perhaps better functionalities or improved looks.


Some important factors to consider when purchasing a used car are that you need to check the number of miles, MOT and service history, age of tires, oil, check there is no outstanding finance, and whether it's been written off or stolen before.

Car Dealer VS Private Seller

When people start to research their potential car, most people will look up their local car dealers on cars.com for example, who will have a huge selection of different models at different prices, but at the end of the day it all comes down to the cost as they will always charge more than private sales. The only advantage is that you will have more after sales service, as all dealers in the UK are required to give three months warranty on a car which wouldn't happen with a private sale. A private seller may give you a better deal than a car dealer as you can barter with them but don't act too over keen as they may take advantage of you so show them that you know what you're talking about.

Do you have any tips for buying a car?

Liz x

8 comments

  1. Great advices! I will definitely think about that!

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  2. These are great tips! We’re not buying our first car anymore, but we need a new car desperately. We have mini cooper & it’s such a family car that fits so much! We literally have to choose between the baby and the stroller haha :D

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  3. I am not currently in the market for another vehicle but these are great tips for people who need a vehicle. Thanks for sharing

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  4. Great tips! I wish the public transportation was good enough in my city (Miami) that I NEVER had to drive but alas that is FAR from the case.

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  5. Great tips and tricks! Money and test drive are very important to me. I would add the color also, no one wants a dark colored car when temperature is very high for almost all year.

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  6. Great tips, very important info. Thanks for this!

    xx
    lau

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  7. These tips are applicable to anyone interested purchasing a new car, whether it's your first or your fourth! Buying a car can be stressful, so these tips are great!

    Sondra xx
    prettyfitfoodie.com

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  8. I don't have any tips :) I wish though. I have my driving licence for almost 6 years now but I don't drive. I have some stupid fear and I would really love to change that. :)

    You wrote an amazing tips. They will be useful for me one day too. :) Enjoy in your car!

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