Category Archives: Buying & Selling

Sometimes your car becomes too expensive to maintain. Constant repairs and struggles may eat away at your bank balance until you start to realise it’s not economical to keep it on the road. Especially when you know the repair is probably worth more than the whole car.

The Seat Leon has been a small car staple on European and UK roads since 1999. It’s a compact hatchback that’s been available in 3 door and 5 door variants. Originally created using different components from Volkswagen cars combined with manufacturer parts, it shares some of its pedigree with other small cars including the Golf MK4 and the Audi A3.

Since 1997, the Mercedes A Class has been a frequent site on our roads. Featuring a sub-compact, short wheel based design with the characteristic stylings from the German manufacturer, it has been a popular choice for drivers that want a luxury run-around. Like all vehicles, it’s not without its faults and issues, so what are some of the more common faults that you need to check for when considering purchasing a second hand A-Class?

The Toyota Yaris has been a common sight on UK roads since 1999. Known for great handling, solid safety features and a very comfy little interior, it quickly gained a reputation as one of the best subcompact cars available.

The Nissan Qashqai is a compact, crossover SUV. Released in 2006, it was designed for customers that want the robust nature of a larger vehicle, whilst still retaining a sporty, sleeky on the road profile. It has gone through several generations and is a common sight on UK roads. Potential buyers can find many of these cars available through all second hand sales channels. But if you’re on the lookout for one of these larger cars, what are some of the common problems that you need to avoid?

Yes, buying a used car will save you money. However, the greater the age of your potential purchase; the more chance it’s been in an accident.

Less than honest car dealers often have a masters degree in hiding the signs of damage after an accident. However, a quick makeover is often significantly easier than a proper repair, meaning there are tons of tell-tale signs to watch out for, if you want to make sure a second-hand car hasn’t been in a serious prang.

Selling your car can be tough. Getting the price you want can be tougher; people are hard to part with their money and will always want a bargain. And that’s if they’re honest. Selling your used car can be a minefield, with fast operators looking to rip you off in a worst case scenario.

However, with a little planning and politeness, you can relax and meet a buyer who’s genuinely interested in your car and will give you a firm price.

Hunting for used cars is a national past-time. Whether you’re in the market for a bargain, or are a collector trawling through barn finds and small ads, looking for that dream motor – you can find a huge selection of vehicles at some top notch prices. Most sellers are decent people, looking to run a business, or simply trade up on an old car, but this doesn’t mean mistakes can’t be made.

Over the years we’ve mentioned the dreaded cut and shut job many times. From the selling tricks of dodgy dealers to spotting cloned cars. Although this problem was more prevalent when there was less information and checks available to keep sellers and mechanics honest about this dastardly practice, it hasn’t disappeared completely.

Accidently buying a cut and shut unknowingly is disastrous. Not only is it illegal for someone to sell you a reconditioned write-off, but it is incredibly dangerous to the driver, any passengers and other road users. If it is involved in a crash it will literally fall apart. How can you avoid this potential catastrophe by spotting a cut and shut before you buy?

Buying a car is a process fraught with potential problems and dangers. There’s a reason why the stereotype of the used car salesman exists, although the majority of people who work in this field are reputable and honest.

Still, sometimes flood damaged vehicles appear on the market, sellers can pull off dodgy tricks and you’ll need to have your wits about you during your test drive. But there’s another red flag you’ll want to avoid when looking for a potential purchase, and that’s the cloned car.