Millions of first-time car buyers are purchasing a vehicle without checking it over, according to a new study commissioned by Parkers.co.uk.
Cars are traditionally one of the most expensive purchases; on average, motorists typically spend roughly £3,000 on their first car.
Data shows that 63% of new drivers fail to research their purchase or carry out relevant checks. Not only can this be costly for motorists, but also dangerous.
7 in 10 said that they were not too sure what they were looking for when purchasing their first car. Additionally, 40% said that they didn’t even take their vehicle for a test-drive.
The study therefore reveals that 49% regretted their purchase.
“Our study has revealed a lot of people are jumping straight in and buying a car without doing the necessary research or carrying out the relevant checks and this can create problems down the line,” said Keith Adams, editor of Parkers.co.uk.
Parkers.co.uk is the UK’s largest consumer advice and car review website. It has now created a free and easy quiz to test people’s knowledge of jargon related to the car industry.
“Buyers who rush their purchase or don’t carry out the correct checks could end up with a car that has outstanding finance on it, is an insurance write-off, or has technical and safety issues which could put them and others on the road at risk,” Keith Adams continued.
“With more than half-a-million people passing their driving test in the UK each year, there is no shortage of motorists looking for their first car.”
“It can be a complex process getting to grips with insurance, road tax, knowing what to look for during a test-drive as well as the pluses and negatives of each car.”
“We advise everyone to do their research to make sure they end up buying a safe and legal car that’s perfect for their needs.”
Elsewhere in the automobile sector, UK car manufacturing dropped for 12 consecutive months, according to new data revealed last week by the SMMT.
A no-deal Brexit is “not an option” now for the industry, according to the SMMT’s Chief Executive.
The UK new car market fell again in the month of May, data provided by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders revealed.
