ASK THE EXPERTS - BUYING AND SELLING CARS
Parkers brings you a guide to buying and selling your car using auctions, the internet and newspapers
Q What are the advantages of buying from a manufacturer's used network?
A Approved used-car schemes are run through franchise dealers. Cars are thoroughly prepared and restored to manufacturer standards before being sold, so buyers benefit from a car that's in tip-top condition. The cars come with a variety of added extras, such as a 30-day exchange policy if you're unhappy, at least a year's warranty and MoT cover, plus an independent mileage and vehicle-history check. Approved used cars tend to be more expensive, but they come with added assurance and comprehensive cover that private sales simply don't provide.
Q Online supermarkets offer massive savings on new cars against high street dealers. Do you think they are sincere or too good to be true?
A We would recommend approaching your online purchases very carefully and do some thorough research about the companies before committing to any deals.
Certain online car supermarkets have recently been featured on BBC Watchdog, with complaints about non-delivery of cars and failures to refund deposits and full payments.
Although the internet has brought many genuine, cheaper, cars on to the market, be very cautious before signing any contracts as some deals are too good to be true.
Q WHEN do you think is the best time to sell a soft top? Shall we keep it until the height of summer to hopefully achieve the best possible price, or risk losing some money by selling it now?
A THE most suitable time to sell a soft top is in late spring, just before the weather starts to really warm up for the summer and as demand begins to rise. However, with high demand comes high competition and your car will not retain its value forever. If you are looking for a quick sale, you may be best off advertising your cabriolet on a website at a decent price and waiting for a response. There are always people looking for a variety of cars and you may just be pleasantly surprised. After all, a soft top makes a perfect birthday present, whatever the time of year.
Q HOW can I improve my chances of a car sale through a local newspaper advert?
A FIRST, to reduce time-wasting enquiries, describe all of the important facts, such as the model, manufacturer, trim level and colour, as well as age, mileage, and number of previous owners.
Next, include any details that may improve the vehicle's appeal, such as a full service history - which is like gold dust on an older car - plus MoT and tax details, and any extras that will add value to your car. Don't forget to make sure that it's realistically priced. Finally, include a contact number and be creative to make your ad stand out. Good luck!
Q MY DEALER is offering me a pre-registered car.
The vehicle has less than 100 miles on the clock but is much cheaper than what the list price says it should be. Surely this deal is too good to be true?
A DEALERS sometimes register a few cars before they've sold them to make their sales figures look better. Plus it allows them to sell the car cheaper. You won't enjoy the full warranty period, as this started from the date the car was registered, and you'll also be the second owner in the logbook.
However, the savings you can enjoy are normally more than enough to off-set these minor issues. It's a great way to get a cheap car.
* For more information and advice go to www. parkers. co. uk
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