10 Tips for Buying a Used Car in Ipswich, Suffolk

10 TIPS FOR BUYING A USED CAR IN IPSWICH, SUFFOLK

As one of the major towns in Suffolk, Ipswich is an excellent place to look for a secondhand car.

With a variety of dealerships and private sellers, you can find a car that meets all your requirements within your budget.

However, buying a secondhand car can be quite daunting, especially if you are not familiar with the area or the people who are selling them.

To help you out in your secondhand car buying journey, we have compiled a list of ten things you should do when buying a secondhand car in Suffolk.

Decide on what you want

Before you begin your search for a used car, it is essential to determine what you need.

What kind of car do you want – a compact car, a hatchback, an SUV, or a van?
Think about the number of seats you need.
What features are you looking for – air conditioning, power steering, power windows, a sunroof, or a sound system with additional speakers?

Knowing what you want will help you narrow down your search and save you time in looking for a suitable car.

Determine your budget

How much money do you have to spend on a used car? You need to set a budget and stick to it. This way, you know exactly how much you can afford to spend and can avoid overspending on cars that are outside of your price range. Make sure to take into account other expenses such as insurance, repairs, and maintenance when determining your budget.

Look for Reliable Used Car Dealers in the Ipswich Area

If you are thinking of buying from a second-hand car dealer in Ipswich talk to your friends, family, neighbours and coworkers to see if they know a good dealer or private seller locally. Ask them for their experiences and opinions about the garages or sellers they’ve worked with in the past. You can also check online reviews of garages or dealers on Google to get an idea of what to expect. Make sure the used car seller is registered with a reputable agency like the Independent Garage Association or the Trust My Garage Scheme.

Research the car’s history

One of the most important things to do when buying a secondhand car is to investigate its history. Conduct a background check on the car you are interested in to find out if there are any outstanding debts or if the car has been involved in any accidents. A history check will also reveal if the car has been stolen or written off by an insurance company.

Test drive the car

It is essential to take the car you are interested in for a test drive. During the test drive, check how the car handles, its steering and brakes, and any unusual noises or vibrations. Drive the car on different types of roads – highways, residential streets, and country roads – to get an overall feel of how it performs.

Check the paperwork

The paperwork associated with a used car purchase is essential. Ensure you have a valid MOT certificate, the registration certificate, and the service history for the car. This will give you an insight into the car’s maintenance history and help you detect any potential problems or issues.

Inspect the car

Take your time to inspect the car before making a purchase. Check for signs of rust, dents, and scratches. Look out for cracks or chips on the windshield or windows. Checking the car’s tires and brakes is also crucial to ensure that they are in good condition.

Look at the last MOT. How long has it been since the last MOT? If possible insist that the car undergoes a new MOT. At Ashbocking Autos we sell all our second-hand cars with a full MOT.

Ask for a warranty and service

When buying a used car, it is advisable to ask for a warranty and service.

The warranty should cover any mechanical faults that may arise within a specific period after the purchase. At Ashbocking Autos we often offer a full year’s warranty on vehicles we sell.

A service should include an oil change, air filter replacement, tire alignment, and brake maintenance.

If possible, ask for the service history to ensure that the car was well maintained before you purchased it.

Negotiate the price

Once you have found the car you want, it is time to negotiate the price. Typically, sellers tend to ask for a higher price than what they are willing to accept. So, make sure you negotiate down to a price that falls within your budget.

Arrange for insurance

Before you complete the purchase, ensure you have arranged for insurance for the car. This will protect you against any financial loss in case of an accident.

Complete the paperwork

Once you have agreed on the price, make sure you complete the paperwork. The paperwork usually includes documentation such as receipts, agreements, and contracts. At Ashbocking Autos we will walk you through this entire process and handle the majority of it for you.

Ensure you keep all the documents in a secure place for future reference.

Conclusion

Buying a secondhand car in Ipswich, Suffolk, can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. But by following the ten tips above, you can navigate the process with ease and make an informed decision.

Remember always to take your time, do your research, and be careful when making your purchase.

With these tips, you can find your perfect secondhand car in Ipswich, Suffolk, without any hassle or worries.

Looking to sell your current car quickly and for a good price? Or looking for a reliable used car, check out our showroom