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Finding a genuine used car can be a tricky task. Even if
you locate a car that looks great, drives well and is the
right price, there`s still a nagging sense of uncertainty
about its history and whether the seller is reputable or not.
Thankfully, there`s no need to worry about a vehicle`s past -
with a vehicle history report you`ve got the key to its
secrets.
Why are vehicle history reports so useful?
According to the RAC, one in three cars it checks has problems
that were hidden from the prospective buyer. Sellers may
choose to keep information from buyers in an effort to strike
the best deal so a vehicle history report can provide
reassurance that you`re not buying a car that isn`t roadworthy
or has been stolen.
There are many problems to watch out for. For example, many
used cars have been `cut and shut` which means two cars have
been welded together. This is difficult to spot as many modern
cut and shut techniques are sophisticated and may only be
apparent to a trained eye.
Even if a car has a full service history and seems to be well
maintained that does not guarantee it hasn`t been in a serious
accident even written-off. Finding this out before you buy can
help you make a judgment about whether or not you want to take
on the risk that comes with this type of vehicle.
Vehicle history reports can also tell you whether or not a car
is subject to an unpaid finance. If a previous car finance
agreement is still outstanding you could take possession of a
car that isn`t actually yours to own - and it could be
reclaimed, meaning you lose your car and your cash.
What does a vehicle history report tell you?
There are many factors included in a good vehicle history
report including:
- Information about the vehicle`s previous owners.
- Whether or not the vehicle has been stolen and recovered.
- Whether finance is outstanding.
- Whether the car has been written-off.
- An import/export check to confirm whether the vehicle
has been brought into the UK from overseas
- A mileage check to indicate whether the vehicle has
been `clocked`.
- An assessment of what the vehicle should be worth in
today`s market.
- Police interest, such as whether the vehicle been
involved in a crime.
- Plate transfer data
- Colour changes
Other factors covered on a comprehensive vehicle history
report are: the keeper change date; engine details check;
scrapped check; risk alert check; registration date; chassis
number/VIN; documentation check. Most companies will also
offer some insurance cover or guarantee on data accuracy.
Where can you get a vehicle history report?
There are a number of online vehicle history report
companies. According to carcheckdirect.co.uk both
mycarcheck.co.uk and autocheck.co.uk offer a five-star
service. However, there are many other options including:
- HPIcheck.com
- AAcheck.com
- RAC.co.uk
- Vehiclecheck.co.uk
- Carstatuscheck.co.uk
- CarWebIT.com
- MotorDataCheck.com
- eBay.co.uk
Prices of vehicle history reports vary and typically range
from £3.95-£39.95.
What should learners and new drivers look out for when
buying a used car?
As a learner or a newly qualified driver, you`ll be thrilled
to be buying your first car. The key is not to rush in to an
impulse purchase without doing your research first. If your
budget only stretches to used cars, it`s well worth investing
in a vehicle history report - that way you can be sure you`re
spending your money wisely. It`s also worth considering a
vehicle inspection as this can highlight any mechanical
problems that may otherwise remain hidden until you take
possession of the vehicle.
Remember to compare new driver and
learner driver car insurance quotes before you commit to
buying, as inexperienced drivers are rated as a high risk by
insurance companies and as such premiums tend to be expensive.
Buying a used car that has a low insurance group and a small
engine should help you to find affordable car insurance
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