It's an easy ride for Birmingham van drivers
A Birmingham business has created a simple buying guide to take the mystery out of choosing a used van.
The Top 10 Tips buying guide by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles aims to help used van customers make cost effective business decisions as Kevin Justice, head of business at Birmingham Van Centre explains.
He said: “A van is an important business asset and it is natural to want to choose even more carefully if you are considering a ‘used’ vehicle.
“The Top 10 Tips guide is a step-by-step checklist to help customers make the best decision and avoid potentially costly mistakes.
“The tips might appear obvious but it’s easy to overlook specific points in the heat of sealing the deal.”
The top 10 tips guide covers the following points:
1. Research - save time and money by establishing what the van will be used for, what specification and payload is required, do you have a fixed budget?
2. Test drive - check for wear and tear both inside and out, listen for noises, knocks or engine rattles
3. Service history - make sure there is a service history particularly on higher mileage vehicle. Check the service book and if buying from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles the van centre can find out service work carried out in the network
4. Warranty - does it come with one and what does it include? Is there a mileage limit? Look for a comprehensive warranty
5. HPI check – make sure the vehicle identification number matches with the log book and that the vehicle does not have any outstanding finance, been stolen or written off
6. Mileage - if in doubt ask for a mileage validation certificate
7. Tyres - are they the same size, rate and same brand on each axle?
8. Taking delivery - will it be mechanically checked and repaired if necessary before your collection?
9. Specification upgrade - negotiate in advance to secure the best deals
10. Additional benefits - are there any finance offers, drive away insurance, service and maintenance packages available which can help with monthly budgets?
Stuart added: “Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles operates an exceptional used van programme called Das WeltAuto as we believe our customers are long term partners and their vehicles are the tools of their trade. The programme provides complete confidence and peace of mind for buyers so we can support and ultimately help strengthen their business.”
The Das WeltAuto programme offers benefits such as 12 months comprehensive warranty, seven day insurance cover, an exchange and return policy, vehicle data and mileage checks, and roadside assistance.
To watch the Das WeltAuto top 10 tips for buying a used van visit youtu.be/KK-FUuRMqBI.