Safety Spotlight: Top Safety Features to Look for in Used Cars for Families
Buying a second hand is a good way to get a better model of vehicle for your set budget, but people sometimes avoid the used car market because they are unsure of the quality and safety of the cars for sale. After all, when it comes to a choice between putting your children in a fancy model that might be dangerous or in a new car that is recently quality tested and definitely still under warranty, it’s a no-brainer. However, second-hand cars can be just as safe as new vehicles fresh from the factory if you know how to choose the right used vehicle. Let’s have a look at some top safety features to look for in used cars for families.
The Vendor
When you’re thinking about buying a second-hand car to explore Brighton and its beautiful surrounds, you might want to maximise your chances of finding your dream car for a ridiculously low price. This might have you reading auction notices, scanning the ads and local sales sites, and even reading notices in shop windows. But be aware that most people who regret their second-hand purchase did so through an informal sales platform. Dealing with private sellers, whether directly or through an auction site, should always be treated with caution. It is hard to get a good measure of the vehicle that is for sale while the owner is there, perhaps working to distract you from any flaws or issues. A better option is to go to a business that specialises in second-hand car sales. They have fixed premises, so you can come back to them with any queries; there is often a good range of choice in the vehicles for sale; and, best of all, you will drive off the lot with a guarantee, access to after-sales care, and a car that you can be sure is in tip-top condition. For used cars in Brighton, visit KAP Motor Group.
Buyer Beware
The phrase caveat emptor (buyer beware) could have been coined for car sales, and it is indeed, something to be aware of. Make sure you test drive the car before you purchase it, and pay special attention to the brakes, steering and lights. If you are not mechanically minded it might be worth your while to hire a mechanic to give the car a once over before you commit your hard-earned cash to what might be a terrible vehicle. Sometimes, unscrupulous sellers can use time pressures to force you into a quick decision: ‘I have to get back to work in ten minutes, please decide,’ for example, or even, ‘Well, I have four other interested parties – if you don’t take it now, you might miss out.’ If this happens, be prepared to walk away immediately. The old saying: ‘If it seems too good to be true, it probably is,’ is one to remember.
How Old is It?
Having said all that, pay attention to the age of the car. The sweet spot for a new-to-you second-hand car is between two to five years old. Younger than this, the car’s price will be quite high, and cars that are older than this can be prone to rapid, unexpected declines that could end up costing you a lot of money – not at all what you’re hoping for from your ‘new’ used car.
Remember, no matter how you source your second-hand car, you’re protected by the Consumer Rights Act – but it is infinitely better to know your rights without needing to enact legal action to enjoy them!
