For many, second-hand cars are a much more affordable option than a brand new set of wheels, and with the current cost of living crisis, more and more of us are likely to consider buying a previously owned vehicle.
If you’re thinking about buying a used car, then you’ll want to sort out used car insurance to ensure you’re protected from day one.
Used car insurance is a policy you’ll take out to insure your pre-loved vehicle. It’s exactly the same as standard car insurance and provides exactly the same coverage as if you were insuring a new car.
No, used cars can be insured with standard car insurance policies. They’ll have the same level of cover, and you can choose from the same options.
Yes, even if you’re only test driving a car, you need to be insured. Dealers will usually have cover in place to allow you to test drive the vehicle, but if you’re buying from a private seller, you’ll need to sort your own cover.
Your current car insurance might have cover for Driving Other Cars (DOC) with the owner’s permission. If not, then you’ll need to take out temporary car insurance to cover you for the test drive. Always check you’re insured before you get behind the wheel.
Applying for second-hand car insurance is exactly the same as applying for insurance for a brand new car. You can get a quote online or alternatively find out more about our car insurance.
Whether you’re buying from a dealer or a private seller, here are some tips to help you in the process of buying a used car:
Some things to look out for when viewing a used car include:
It’s a good idea to take someone with you who has a good knowledge of cars and mechanics (if you don’t yourself), or to pay a professional mechanic to carry out a vehicle inspection for you for extra peace of mind.
Always test drive the car to make sure everything is in good working order. Pay particular attention to the engine, the clutch, the gears, the brakes and the suspension.
And remember, you need to make sure you’re insured to drive the car before you take it for a test drive.
Make sure the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), number plate, make and model of the car you’re buying matches what’s on the V5C (also known as the log book).
If you’re buying privately, check that the name of the registered owner is the same as the person you’re in contact with.
Use the Government’s MOT checker to check the car’s MOT history, and ask to see the car’s service history to see how well it’s been looked after.
Before you can drive off in your new car, make sure you’re insured. Get a quote for used car insurance today.
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