Check the wheels and the deals - AA advice

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Written by Administrator

Wednesday, 14 February 2007

For every new car sold there are 2.5 second hand cars changing hands. Consumers all over the country are digging deep into their pockets, and the AA has warned them to go carefully.

"Buying a car is an intimidating prospect for many consumers," said Conor Faughnan of AA. "If it is second hand, you are worried that you may be buying someone else's problems. If it is new, then you are making a big commitment which for most of us involves financing of some sort. The AA is warning consumers to 'Check the wheels and Check the deals'."

The AA advises motorists to have a second hand car professionally inspected before agreeing to purchase. No reputable seller is going to object.

The AA's Technical Department provide a comprehensive vehicle inspection service. Even when a car is in good condition, a proper inspection will identify any minor faults or problems which the garage can address before you buy.

It is also important to check that there is no Hire Purchase owed on the vehicle; this can be queried with the Hire Purchase Information Centre at 01 2600905. They will check that no HP or leasing finance is outstanding on the vehicle. The fee is ?15.

Many publications carry ads offering second-hand cars for sale. Most are genuine but unfortunately there are still unscrupulous dealers posing as private sellers. If you decide to make contact, say that you are asking about 'the car for sale'. If he has to ask you which car then he is a dealer. Having blown his cover, steer clear of his car!

You have to look out for the pitfalls, do the homework and remember the maxim caveat emptor, let the buyer beware.

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