Though about 36,794 South Africans registered new cars in January 2017, more residents can better afford used cars. In May 2016 alone, 89,390 completed applications for used cars.

In addition to lower cost, used cars cost less to insure and you can oftentimes get more interesting features.  

Of course, there’s always the concern that an individual selling a used car will take advantage and hand you a bunch of problems on four wheels.  Take heart, most used sales are legitimate and most sellers are honest.  

Still, with all sales, the buyer must always be careful. Here are some tips to make sure the used car in which you’re considering purchasing doesn’t have problems:

o Don’t fall in love. This is admittedly hard, especially when the car has great looks and features.

o Stay ordinary. With used cars, ordinary is safer. Of course you want the car you loved a kid, but it’s better to save that for the dealers, where warranties are offered. Plus, dealers can some of those fancy cars and if something is wrong, you’ll have to pay their hefty bill.  With an ordinary car, you can go to a more affordable repair shop.  

o Study the seller. Look in their eyes and watch their body language as they speak. Okay, maybe you’re not an expert, but you have instincts. Watch the seller as you walk around the car and ask questions. You’re good enough to sense if they’re uncomfortable or reluctant. Or, if you just feel that something isn’t right, trust yourself.  You’re under no obligation.   

o Test a few things.  Look under the car and check the brakes (if you don’t know much about cars, keep it to yourself).  Ask questions.  Look under the hood. Battery posts should be clear and free of residue.  Pull up the handbrake and shove the car – it shouldn’t move.  

    Red flags:  New battery. Why?  Is there a problem with the alternator or starter? New Tires. Again, why? Steering problems?  New pain?  Was there a recent crash?  

    Start the ignition and, while the car’s idling, listen. Are there strange noises?  Test the wipers, headlights, windows, air conditioning, and other systems.

    Turn it off, but keep the headlights on. Then, try to start it.  If it has problems, there might be an electrical problem.

o Go for a spin. Feel the acceleration. Does it hesitate or stop. Listen again for noises. Do the brakes grind or squeal?  

o After the test drive, see if any fluids leaked. Oil or coolant might mean serious issues.  

If you don’t identify any problems and the car and seller feel right, go ahead and buy the car. It’s new to you.

If you suspect an issue, but are still interested, ask to have a professional look over the car. An honest seller offering you a legitimately good car should have no problem with this request.

Batteries & More

For over twenty years, Batteries & More has serviced and repaired vehicles. Its team of highly skilled, trained professionals offers batteries, as well as Alternator Repairs & Replace johannesburg, and starter motor repairs.

Batteries & More is owner managed. It appreciates how vehicle service can cause work interruption and possible loss of income. That’s why its professionals come out to you.  

If you are considering purchasing a used vehicle, Batteries & More’s professionals will inspect and test its entire electrical system. With Batteries & More’s inspection, you can rest assured that you will receive an honest, up-front assessment.   

In addition to inspections, Batteries & More offers:

o Starter Motor Repairs
o Alternator Repairs
o Batteries and more Car Battery Services
o Auto Electrical Components

You can purchase new Car batteries with 1 and 2 year warranties or a lower priced reconditioned Auto car battery, also with a warranty.

Batteries & More additionally provides Paintless Dent Removal and Mag / Rim Repair.   

You get so much more than car batteries from Batteries & More. You get total peace of mind. Batteries & More offers Alternator Repairs & Replace johannesburg , Car batteries for sale, Starter motor repairs, Paintless Dent Removal and Mag / Rim Repair and Batteries and more. Contact today online at batteries and more.co.za or call at 083 766 9100

About Author :

Batteries & More is providing the Starter motor repairs, Car batteries, Car batteries for sale, Alternator for sale, Battery store/supplier, Auto car battery and Alternator Repairs & Replace johannesburg. More Details visit our website or Call us at +27 (011)6164232.