Buying a used car online can be daunting. With so many cars, sellers, and details to navigate, it’s crucial to use the right strategies to find a reliable car at the best price.
Happily, AutoTrader, the UK’s largest used car website, has a range of filters and tools that can simplify your search – if you know how to use them effectively, which is why we’ve come up with these tips on how to use AutoTrader, based on the best practices from Palmdale Car Finders’ years of expertise in UK car buying.
1. Start with the Basics
Before diving into AutoTrader, work out what you’re looking for in a car, as the Palmdale car buying guide suggests. Consider:
- Budget: Decide on your total spending limit, including any monthly financing.
- Body Type: Think about the vehicle’s purpose. Is it a hatchback for city commutes or an SUV for family travel?
- Gearbox and Fuel Type: Knowing these specifics upfront helps filter out irrelevant options.
- Must-have Features: Essential items like parking sensors or Apple CarPlay can refine your search further and prevent wasted time.
Having a clear checklist can help you stay focused, much like bringing a shopping list to a supermarket; it stops you from overspending or ending up with something that doesn’t fit your needs.
2. Building Your Search: Using AutoTrader’s Filters
AutoTrader’s filters let you search very precisely so the next step in how to use AutoTrader effectively is to follow these steps to find the right listings.
- Start with Broad Criteria: From the homepage, select only the make and model. On the next page, refine details further using the left-hand filters.
- Location: Set the distance filter to “National”. Even if you don’t intend to travel far, viewing national listings helps gauge a realistic price range.
- Refine by Key Criteria:
- Price: Stay within your budget, but consider setting the maximum a bit higher. Some sellers are open to negotiation.
- Transmission and Fuel Type: These filters help target your preferred vehicle setup.
- Mileage and Age: Older cars with lower mileage may have a longer lifespan than younger high-mileage vehicles.
AutoTrader’s filter system can get granular – try not to over-specify, or you may accidentally miss suitable options.
3. Narrowing Down with Keyword Searches
For models with variations (like trim levels), use the keyword search box near the bottom of the left-hand filters. If you’re after a “Ford Fiesta Titanium”, for example, entering “Titanium” will limit results to this specific model.
How to use Autotrader: Pro Tip
Be cautious about selecting model variants, as AutoTrader’s data can be inconsistent here. Keywords tend to be more accurate, especially for trims or unique features which will normally be highlighted in the listing.
4. Reviewing Listings: Photos, Specs, and Seller Information
Each listing can provide significant insights into the car’s history and condition. Here’s what to look for:
- Photos: The more, the better. Look for well-lit images showing multiple angles. Avoid listings with minimal or poorly taken photos; they might be hiding issues.
- Descriptions: Read thoroughly, paying attention to the car’s condition, service history, and any work recently done. If the description is vague, it’s worth questioning why.
- Seller Type: AutoTrader identifies listings from different sellers – franchised dealers, independent dealers, or private sellers. Each type comes with its own pros and cons to consider.
- Franchised Dealers: They offer more warranty options and pre-sale checks, but their prices may be higher.
- Independent Dealers: Prices vary, and service quality can be inconsistent. Look for reviews and confirm car details directly.
- Private Sellers: Often cheaper, but remember, buying privately limits your legal recourse if issues arise.
5. Check Seller Reviews and Vehicle History Reports
AutoTrader includes reviews for many dealers. Look for ratings and feedback on customer service, after-sales support, and reliability. Poor reviews? It might be worth looking elsewhere.
AutoTrader also provides vehicle history reports on some listings, indicating whether a car has had major repairs or was previously written off. If there’s no report, consider using external checkers like the DVLA’s MOT check and an HPI check.
6. Organising and Shortlisting
AutoTrader can save your favourite listings for easy comparison, but it can be helpful to go a step further to organise your potential purchases.
- Print to PDF: Organise potential cars in folders by saving them as PDFs. This way, you can take notes or create custom categories like “called and rejected” or “left a message.”
- Supercharge with Browser Extensions: Tools like Motorwatch and AT Price Tracker track when adverts go live or if a price has dropped. This helps spot any trends or signs that a seller is eager to make a deal.
7. Making Contact: Questions to Ask the Seller
Now that you have a shortlist, it’s time to speak to sellers. Here are some essential questions that the Palmdale team recommends.
- How many owners has it had? Fewer owners usually means a better-maintained car.
- Service History Details: Ask for specifics, not just “full service history.” Knowing where and when it was serviced can tell you a lot about its care.
- Condition Confirmation: Does it have any marks or issues? Often, dealers won’t specify every flaw, so ask for a “walkaround” description.
- Preparation for Sale: Find out what checks or repairs the dealer made before listing. Replaced tyres or brakes? This can add value.
8. Arranging a Viewing and Test Drive
No matter how thorough your questions or how detailed the description, nothing is as good as seeing the car in person. Prepare with these steps:
- Location Check: If a private seller, verify that their address matches the registration address on the V5C document (a legal requirement in the UK). It’s best to avoid meeting in random locations.
- Daytime Viewing: Always view in daylight to spot any paint imperfections or dents more easily.
- Checklist: Palmdale’s checklist includes essential items like two keys, locking wheel nut, and charging cables for EVs. Bring this to ensure everything promised is there. (Download our Free Used Car Buying Guide for more details.)
AutoTrader also offers the option of scheduling a virtual viewing with some dealers, which can give a first impression if an in-person visit isn’t possible initially.
9. Test Drive Tips
A good test drive covers various aspects, so don’t feel rushed:
- Noise Check: Listen for unusual sounds at different speeds and when cornering. Strange noises could indicate issues.
- Steering and Brakes: Try a gentle brake at higher speeds to ensure no vibration or pull, and test the clutch if it’s a manual.
- Full Lock Turn: Turn the wheel to full lock on each side and listen for any squeaks or knocks—these could signal suspension issues.
A thorough test drive is vital, especially with used cars, so don’t hesitate to ask questions about anything that seems unusual.
10. Ready to Buy? Negotiation Tips
When you’ve found “the one,” it’s time to talk price. A few tips from the Palmdale negotiation guide:
- Timing is Key: Discuss the price only after you’ve confirmed you’re genuinely interested in the car.
- Be Confident but Courteous: Start with something like, “I’m ready to buy today; what’s the best price you can offer?”
- Look for Flexibility: Some sellers might lower the price, throw in a service, or add a longer warranty.
11. Payment and Final Steps
AutoTrader itself doesn’t facilitate payment for the cars listed, so plan ahead.
Paying by bank transfer is generally the safest, but many dealers also accept credit or debit cards. Avoid carrying cash if possible. Request a receipt or invoice detailing the car and any verbal agreements.
Final Thoughts: Why AutoTrader?
With a database far larger than most UK car sales websites, AutoTrader is ideal for finding the perfect used car.
By combining search tools with strategic filters, careful seller vetting, and a systematic approach to viewing and test-driving, you can feel confident in securing a quality used car.
If it all still feels overwhelming, remember there are experts like Palmdale Car Finders who can help in tracking down a great used car with minimal hassle. So whether you’re a DIY car hunter or prefer assistance, there’s never been a better time to dive into the world of online car buying.