Hidden problems for private used car buyers
Purchasing a second-hand car privately without arranging a proper mechanical inspection beforehand could lead to expensive repairs after just a few weeks, warns online retailer Carsite.co.uk.
Whilst thousands of drivers choose to buy second hand cars privately, Carsite highlights that, without getting a detailed ramped inspection by an expert, there will always be a risk of problems developing in the early stages of ownership.
Recent government MOT statistics show that more than a third (36%) of all cars are failing their MOT tests. The results indicate a large number of models are being sold on the private market in a condition that would be deemed ‘un-roadworthy’ by official vehicle standards.
Independent RAC inspector at Carsite.co.uk, Ron Waldock, has compiled a list of the most common ‘hidden’ car problems which buyers might experience in the early stages of purchasing an uninspected second hand vehicle.
Clutch failure
Head gasket failure
Suspension failure (such as a broken spring)
Air-conditioning failure
Battery failure
Ron Waldock commented; ‘Even with a good working knowledge of cars, a test drive and visual inspection, what appears to be a well-maintained vehicle could still be hiding problems that develop soon after you become the legal owner.
If you buy privately, you’re not protected legally if the car doesn’t come up to scratch. It’s up to the buyer to ask the right questions and have the car thoroughly inspected, preferably by an expert, before making a purchase. Otherwise the risk is with the buyer and if something goes wrong, it can be a costly decision.’
Carsite highlights that with parts and labourrates, a complicated mechanical problem in the first few months of ownership could potentially add up to as much as £1000 – a significant cost on top of the price paid for the car. The failure of one component can also lead to other parts needing replacement too, further increasing repair bills.
Alistair Jeff of Carsite.co.uk commented; ‘Second hand buyers like to know their vehicle is in a good mechanical condition with no potential issues around the corner. That’s why Carsite puts each of its vehicles through a rigorous independent inspection by the RAC, as well as a HPI background check. Our procedures ensure buyers are protected from these hidden problems. Those looking to buy used in the private market aren’t covered in this way, so to limit the risk we’d strongly recommend a full inspection before you commit to buy.’