Trading up

pcasso

Apologies in advance for asking questions that may have been answered countless times before but I have been following this thread for a while and haven't got all I want.

So basically, I am planning on trading in my current car, a 16 Hyundai 130 petrol 1.4 with just over 80k km's.

I am thinking of going for a VW T-Rock hopefully no more than 2-3 years old as it seems to have one of the highest driving positions in it's class. I had one on hire recently when abroad and really loved it. I had an automatic while abroad and am tempted to go with one for my upgrade, though I know that there is a significant price jump for automatics.

So, my questions.

What are the do's and dont's before I head to a car dealer looking at a car I am interested in?

What should I inspect/look for in the car itself?

Any tips on what I should do during the test drive?

What should my expectations be for the trade in value of my current car?

Why are there seemingly vastly differing asking prices for the same car with similar milage at different garages? Is it that the garages asking for less give less on a trade in?

I am also interested on any feedback from T-Rock owners and some alternative options with a higher driving position in a similar sized car.

Thanks in advance😊

trindade

Usually, VW approved used cars are your best bet. VW dealerships are concerned with their reputation. While it may be a bit more costly, you can make good deals and have peace of mind if you get a car from a VW dealership. They offer a good warranty, and I wouldn't shop anywhere else. I only buy cars from main dealers.

If you are trading in your car, I suggest getting quotes from different VW dealerships. I did this with my older car at various Toyota dealerships and received offers ranging from 27k to 30k for my car. This is a significant difference. It is also useful to have figures to compare and to discuss with the salesman.

When you shop for an approved used car, it is properly serviced. I would ask for the service history and also check the tyres. If the tyres are a bit worn, it is worth asking for a replacement. Also always smell the car, I hate cars with smell of smoke and I returned one car because of this smell. Check if there is anything in the headliner, any marks or even if it's not burned.

Usually in terms of mechanics, these approved cars are trustworthy and you'll have the warranty. So, in short I would be concerned with cosmetics (check for dents and the paint), internal condition (including smell), tyres condition.

I also like to know when I have to change the next timing belt/chain, as this can be costly. Or I would have to change in the next service and what is the cost of the next service. Sometimes you can purchase a car that is serviced, but the next service can be costly and you might have to change tyres… That's why I like to check all these things.

pcasso

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122183594#Comment_122183594

Thanks for that.

All sound advice