On the second hand car market it is possible to find some great deals like this beautiful Datsun 240z
It isn't easy to find a quality car on a second hand market. This article gives you a few helpful tips on how to find the best possible vehicle and on how to avoid the major pitfalls.
18/10/2006
1. Find the car that is best suited for you
Read reviews on the Internet like Ciao.de (in german), Carsurvey (in english) or Ciao.fr (in french). Read journalist reviews on Google. If you want to see photos of a car model go to Google Image Search.
2. Set yourself a maximum budget for the car and keep to it
Find the market value of the car model you want on Auto-i-Dat.
3. Check out the yearly car insurance costs
Use Comparis to compare insurance premiums. Note that some of the stated premiums are not 100% correct so take the 5 cheapest quotes and contact the insurance companies to check if the quotes are correct.
4. Check for a dealer in your neighbourhood
Check that you have a reputable dealer for the car you have chosen in your local area.
5. Make sure the car is in good condition
If possible go to see it with someone who knows about cars. Divide the inspection into 3 parts: exterior inspection, interior inspection and documentation (service book, car documentation...).
6. Go for a test-drive
If possible take the car on a test-drive. During the drive check if the car is smooth to drive and if it handles well. You can also check if the clutch is ok: put it in 3rd gear then turn the motor on and take your foot off the clutch, if the motor doesn't stall immediately the clutch is in bad condition.
7. Have the car examined by an independant specialist
If the seller agrees have the car examined by an independant specialist, for example by someone from the TCS.
8. Negociate the price and make sure that finance is ready before you sign
Always try to negociate the price, some sellers will not lower the price but you should always try. Also make sure that you have the money available before you sign the contract. If you are borrowing the money, make sure you choose the credit before signing the contract.
9. Get the longest possible warranty
If you are buying from a dealer get the longest possible warranty.
10. Never take delivery of a car without a title
When you take delivery of the car the seller should give you a copy of the contract and the car's swiss licence (grey document).
