Category: Buying and Selling

Once you’ve obtained your driver’s licence, it’s time to look into getting a car. Given the high cost of new vehicles, many people decide to buy their first car second-hand. Though opting for a used car is a smart move, like any major purchase, it’s a decision that requires a lot of consideration. However, if you keep these tips in mind, you’re sure to pick the right one.

What kind of car do you need?

The first consideration when choosing a used car is to pinpoint what kind of vehicle is right for you. To do so, determine your budget, how often you’ll be using the car, what makes and models you prefer, what size you need, your ideal safety rating and the fuel economy that suits you best. This will help narrow down the many options available to you.

Book a pre-purchase inspection

Before purchasing a used car, take your potential new ride to a mechanic for a once-over. During the inspection, any problems with the vehicle, be they mechanical, cosmetic, or safety-related, will be uncovered. Afterward, you can make an informed decision about whether or not you still want to buy the car. If you decide to, the information from the inspection can be used to negotiate a better price.

Take a test-drive

Looking at a car can only tell you so much. You won’t know how it handles until you’ve driven it. Take thirty minutes to drive the car around a familiar area to make sure that it can perform all basic manoeuvres to your satisfaction. These include braking, accelerating, changing lanes and parking. Doing so will help you determine if it’s a vehicle you’re comfortable driving.

Negotiating prices

Sometimes, the listed price for a used vehicle doesn’t seem fair. Don’t be afraid to try and negotiate. For reference, there are online tools which allow you to view the average price of similar vehicles in your area. Factor in what you learned during the pre-purchase inspection, then make an offer you feel is more suited to your budget. Be sure to be confident and be willing to pass on the car if the negotiation doesn’t go your way. There will always be other cars, so you don’t have to settle.

Scheduling driving lessons

With both a car division and a truck division, North Shore Driving School Ltd. has provided excellent driving instruction since 1961. Whether you’re in need of a refresher course or are making plans to get your Class 1 driver’s licence for operating semi-trailers, we offer convenient pay-as-you-go courses that can easily be tailored to fit your busy schedule. Contact our driving school in Surrey, B.C. today to make an appointment.

North Shore Driving School understands how important cars are to our lives and culture. Whether it’s for your first car, to add a second one for the family, or due to budget restrictions, a used car can be an accessible and affordable option. However, finding a problem-free used car requires good research and investigative skills—as knowing how to spot potential problems and determining how reliable a used vehicle is can save you from expensive automotive repairs and ensure you are safe on the road.

Do Your Homework to Ensure a Safe Vehicle

To reduce the risk of purchasing a trouble-prone vehicle, identify models with a good reliability record before you begin shopping. Speak with friends and review consumer reports online. Car condition however, is much more important than the brand. Use an independent source to determine the wholesale and retail values of your target vehicle. Vehicle History Reports (Carfax) are inexpensive and can contain very valuable information. Certified cars cost a little more but have some assurances and usually a warranty. Ask your insurance company on claims made, if any, to find out the accident history of previous ownership. If the car will be driven by a new or elderly driver rather than an experienced driver, it is particularly important to ensure the car is in good working condition. Car trouble can be dangerous for drivers with little driving experience.

Checking Under the Hood & Inside the Car

No matter whom you buy from—a dealer, neighbour or stranger—always look over the vehicle thoroughly and, if possible, seek out the professional opinion of a qualified mechanic and get a complete inspection, especially if this the first time you are buying a car or if you have little or no experience with cars. For older models, make sure it passes an environmental test—this can easily be combined with a vehicle inspection. Get a copy of the vehicle’s maintenance records.

Dress in old clothes and give the car a good going-over. You can learn a great deal just by using your eyes, ears and nose. Take along a friend for help. Do your inspection in broad daylight on a dry day as floodlighted lots can make cars look shiny and hide body defects. The car should be parked on a level surface and shouldn’t have been driven for at least an hour before your inspection.

Test Driving the Car

This is perhaps one of the best ways to know the condition of the car. You should not feel any vibration from the brake pedal, or hear any squealing or strange noises. Slight trepidation during a small speed interval may mean wear to mechanical parts. Keep the radio off and listen for odd noises, smells and vibrations that can indicate the need for repair.

Drive Safe with Driving Lessons at North Shore Driving School

North Shore Driving School in BC knows a good vehicle is part of being a safe driver. Contact us for more information regarding our Graduated Licensing Program serving Vancouver area residents or our top-rated truck driving courses serving Surrey and surrounding areas today.0