GETTING a new car can be exciting, but it is a significant purchase and being 100% certain about your decision is crucial. If you’re purchasing a brand new vehicle, you can focus entirely on things like comfort, performance, and style. However, if you’re buying a used car, there are a few extra things you need to consider. 

You never quite know what you’re getting with an older car, and without diving into the vehicle’s history, you run the risk of overpaying for your vehicle or running into problems further down the line. 

It’s important to run a complete licence plate check prior to making a purchase. This will give you all the information you need to make a decision with confidence. So, here are a few key things to look out for and where to find the relevant information. 

Purchasing a Used Car: What to Look Out For 

MOT History 

A car’s MOT history can tell you a lot about the condition of the car. A failure here and there (especially for very minor problems) is fine, but if it regularly fails for major defects, you may want to steer clear. 

You can check the MOT history of a car using the GOV website. All you need is the car’s registration number. 

Vehicle Detail Verification 

Some sellers will manipulate a vehicle’s details to make the car appear more valuable than it actually is. One common trick is to lower the car’s odometer, making you believe the car has done less miles than it really has. 

Generally speaking the higher the mileage, the lower the value of the car. By lowering the mileage, the seller can justify charging slightly more. Higher mileage also means more wear and tear, increasing the likelihood that components such as brake pads and suspension parts will require repair.

You can verify a car’s mileage by cross-referencing it with the vehicle’s MOT history on the GOV website. 

Hidden Write-Offs

Some cars up for sale have previously been written off and many sellers will do their very best to hide this information. Cars that were once written off may have structural issues and hidden damages, and it may be harder to insure or sell later on, so it’s important to check this out. You can download a VIN report online to find out if a car has hidden damages.

Don’t Rush the Decision Process

Purchasing a car shouldn’t be an impulsive decision. To guarantee you’re making a sensible choice, take the time to research a vehicle’s history so you can be sure you’re getting exactly what you pay for. 

Your dream car isn’t complete without the perfect set of alloy wheels. However, if you don’t know much about alloy wheels or you’re just not sure what finish or size is right for you, then keep reading. We’ll run through everything you need to know about alloy wheels so you can choose the right ones for you. 

Sizing 

Size does indeed matter here, both in terms of appearance and performance. Whichever you choose will depend on your goals regarding comfort and overall looks. 

Here’s how the size of your alloy wheels can affect your car: 

Larger Alloys 

Most people opt for larger alloys because generally, they do look better. They also provide better handling and grip in dry conditions. However, they can reduce ride comfort, acceleration, and fuel efficiency due to a lack of cushioning, more weight, and more energy required to spin wider wheels. 

Smaller Alloys 

While less sought after, smaller alloys do offer a range of benefits, including:

• Better comfort – the taller tyre sidewalls absorb impact better, offering a smoother ride quality 
• Improved fuel efficiency – smaller alloys weigh less, positively contributing the fuel economy of the car
• Faster acceleration – less rotational mass allows the car to accelerate quicker 

Finishes 

There are numerous types of finishes available, each with their own unique style that can help to bring out your car’s aesthetic, whether that be sleek and modern or sporty and aggressive. 

Here are the most popular options: 

• Polished – glossy, reflective finish that requires regular cleaning 
• Matte – sporty, modern aesthetic and less cleaning required  
• Satin – easier to maintain than polish but still provides a subtle sheen 
• Chrome – dazzling but susceptible to scratches and requires thorough cleaning
• Painted – versatile with variety of colours and finishes available but prone to chipping and scratches
• Black or gunmetal – a practical, sleek, and modern choice
• Anodised – durable and corrosion resistant with various colours available 
• Diamond cut – high-shine, two-tone finish that offers a distinct appearance but requires more maintenance 

Alloy Wheel Maintenance 

To keep your alloy wheels in tip top shape, you need to maintain them properly. This means:

• Cleaning regularly – preferably every one to two weeks with a soft, non-abrasive brush and non-acidic cleaners (acidic cleaners and harsh bristles can ruin the finish) 
• Protecting against dust and grime – apply wax or sealant to prevent build up 
• Driving carefully – you don’t want to scrape or damage your alloys as this can lead to further corrosion

Where to Buy Alloy Wheels 

You can shop high-quality alloy wheels in various finishes at Wheel Guys or any other reputable wheel dealers in the UK. The higher the quality, the longer they’ll last and the better they’ll look, so always shop around to get the best wheels on the market! 

Even if you passed your driving test years ago, getting back behind the wheel can be scary if you haven’t driven for a while. Whether you’ve not driven for a while because you’ve been working from home or recently moved abroad, it’s important to refamiliarise yourself with your car and the road. Transitioning back into driving after a break involves a methodical approach to regain confidence and ensure safety. Begin by reacquainting yourself with your vehicle, checking that it is in good working condition, including tyre pressure, brakes, and fluid levels. Start with short, familiar routes to rebuild your comfort level gradually. Refresh your knowledge of current traffic laws and defensive driving practices to ensure you are up-to-date.

Here’s how you can have a smooth transition back to driving. 

1. Assess your readiness to drive 

Firstly, it’s important to assess your physical and mental readiness before you get behind the wheel. This is to keep you and other road users safe. 

Physically, you should check your vision, hearing and mobility. You should also be mindful of any medication that could impair your ability to drive. 

You’ll need to be mentally ready to drive, too. Try to assess your stress, focus, decision-making ability and emotional state as well as your confidence. 

To gauge your skills and confidence, think about the last time you were driving and how you felt. If you feel like you need more reassurance, you might want to seek feedback from friends and family. 

If you need to take this one step further and undertake a refresher course to regain confidence, check if this will be covered by car insurance.

2. Refresh your knowledge of road rules 

Before you start driving, you should re-familiarise yourself with the highway code and check for any changes in traffic laws, road signs or regulations. 

3. Make sure your vehicle is road-ready 

To give you peace of mind when you’re on the road, it’s a good idea to check your car is roadworthy – especially after a long period of inactivity. 

As a minimum, you should check the battery for charge, inspect your tyres for wear and top up fluids like oil, coolant and brake fluid. You should also examine your lights for functionality. 

If you’re not sure how to give your car a once-over, book in for a professional inspection at a local garage. 

4. Practical tips for easing back into driving 

To start with, try and only do short trips on roads you know, ideally during off-peak hours. This will help you gain confidence before you start tackling rush-hour mayhem. 

As well as driving on A-roads and motorways, you should spend time practicing your parking and maneuvering. It’s no good getting to your destination if you don’t know how to park once you get there! 

In conclusion, transitioning back into driving after a break requires a combination of preparation, patience, and practice. Start by familiarising yourself with your vehicle’s controls and ensuring it is in good working condition. Begin with short, familiar routes to rebuild confidence and gradually extend your driving range. Refresh your knowledge of traffic laws and defensive driving techniques to enhance safety. Consider taking a refresher driving course if needed. By taking these steps, you can smoothly and safely return to driving, ensuring a confident and comfortable experience on the road.