Media post: Buying A Used Car Online Safely

Buying a car online comes with certain risks and often we write it off as a bad idea. But like everything else within the car industry, there are pros and cons attached.  Surprisingly buying a used car online is more common than you may think, thanks to websites like eBay and Gumtree.

However, it is important to protect yourself and take extra caution as you won’t have the same sort of customer services, rights or protection offered buying privately that you would get when buying from a registered dealer. On the plus side, there are serious bargains to be had on eBay motors and it is definitely worth taking a look when the time comes to buying a new (used) car.

Read on for some helpful guidelines to follow when buying a car online that will help keep you safe from being conned and ensure you don’t end up with a written off banger.

First of all, when it comes to using eBay always check the seller’s feedback. This will give you a general idea of the type of person the seller is and if you see anything suspicious it is best to avoid this person (plenty more sellers online).

Always examine the photos and descriptions in depth for any discrepancies and ask the seller as many questions as possible. This will also give you a good indication of what type of person you are dealing with and if they are not forthcoming with answers this should raise red flags.

When you do find a car online that suits your needs and budget, always purchase a full car history check. For the sake of a few quid, this will save you a lot of trouble in the long run. Purchasing a car history check will tell you: the car’s legal status (if it’s ever been written off or if there is outstanding finance on it), MOT history, mileage and the running costs of the car.

If you do buy a car that has finance on it, that car will belong to the finance company and you will run the risk of it being repossessed.

If you are satisfied with the background check ask to view and test drive the car. Never exchange money for a car that you haven’t viewed! If the car isn’t as described you are under no obligation to go through with the purchase.

When it comes to test driving the car, remember don’t test drive a warm car as the seller may be trying to cover up a fault. Take someone with you when test driving to help you look out for any faults with the car such as strange noises when driving etc.