Buying a used car

Many people start to look for alternatives to cut down on expenses in 2014. Travelling is a must. Go to work, fetch kids from school, go to night market and weekends activities. Been thinking to get a used car for the daily routines and keep your shiny new car for special occasions?

Let me share some tips on buying a used car.

1) Find out what kind of car you need

There is a few categories from compact, sedan, MPV and SUV. Choose the type of vehicle that suits your activities.

2) Read all about it

Get all the relevant information. How much is the road tax, insurance, fuel consumption, major maintenance cost (tyre, brakes, suspension) and the availability of parts. Car forum is the best medium to get all the information from the current user.

3) Check the price

Check the price that suits your budget. You can browse mudah.my, carlist.my and few other websites to get a good price benchmark. Please note that this are the advertise price. It is important to ask the seller what is the ON THE ROAD PRICE. Usually the advertise price is not inclusive of the road tax, insurance, change of name and other related documents.

4)Bring a friend and check out the car

After you have called and shortlisted your choice, go and check out the car.

5) What to check?

Personally I would check things that will not cost me a lot of money for the next 1 to 2 years.

Body condition - no rust and dent on the floor, pillars and engine bay. Previous accidents can caused rust.

Paint job - paint still shining and no major scratches. Nowadays you can get cheap polishing package from groupon.

Tyres - make sure all 4 tyres are from the same brand and series. Tyre should not be bald.

Engine and gearbox - no major leak and abnormal noise. Good engine should not produce any smoke at the exhaust.

6) Test drive

Listen to any abnormal noise, jerking. Gear changing should be smooth if it is an automatic gearbox.

7) Negotiate

If all the above satisfies you, look at the papers and negotiate the price.

By the end of the day, you will be driving the cars and make sure you are comfortable and safe. So decide wisely.

Feel free to ask me if you need further information. Good luck.