interview Every buying tip explained and every car-dealer trick exposed. BUYING GUIDE By Sangeeth Mullassery THE ULTIMATE USED-CAR Times are exceptionally tough, and now more than ever there›s a bargain to be had on the used car market. So this is as good a time as any to publish my findings of a year-long investigation. After hearing countless horror stories from friends and clients, I decided to find out how deep the rabbit-hole goes. Here are some quick buying tips: 1. Don’t buy a car in winter: When the weather is cool out, even the biggest lemon will run and drive. Give it a few heat cycles and increasing temperatures, and you›ll start to notice issue after issue beginning to pop up. It could start off with the little things like broken window regulators (the plastic guides fail as it gets hot out), failing electronics such as instrument clusters and radiator fans - up to bigger things like gearboxes. Besides, prices for used cars are always cheaper during summer months since demand is low. 2. Ask for detailed photos, videos and information: One of the best things you can do prior to investing your time and effort to go out and see a car, is to ask the seller to send you detailed, current photos of the car. The interior, exterior, engine bay, trunk, wheels and body panels are what you’re looking for. These days, most genuine sellers will have these readily available on hand to send to potential buyers. If the seller refuses by saying “come have a look at it in person”, doesn’t respond, sends “ten feet away” photos or beauty shots of the car like it’s supposed to be in a magazine ad, just save yourself the time and the hassle. 24 September 2020 www.bahrainthismonth.com
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