Last Updated on February 2, 2023 by HodgePodgeDays
Buying a car is a significant expense for anyone undertaking such a search; the continuing cost-of-living crisis has seen costs rise and budgets shrink across the board, making the idea of buying a new car a little less palatable for many. Exploring the used car market is also unpalatable to some, owing to the uncertainty associated with car conditions and service history. But for the budget-conscious, there is a happy medium: approved used cars.
For the unfamiliar, an approved used car is one which has been seen and tested by its manufacturer, according to a predefined set of criteria and with a minimum standard of condition in mind. Its analogue in the retail sector might be ‘refurbished’, where consumer tech has been returned to and examined by the manufacturer prior to re-sale. Approval criteria may differ from brand to brand, but typically cars with higher mileage or extensive service history would not qualify.
How Do I Know a Car is Approved?
Generally speaking, dealers will be actively promoted the ‘approved’ status of used vehicles in their showrooms or sales spaces; they might be displayed as such with a branded sign, or highlighted prominently on dealer websites. Finding one is as simple as looking for your ideal brand on a search engine, such as with the terms “approved used Citroen near me”.
There will be manufacturer documentation attesting to the car’s approval, but nonetheless, you should remain vigilant for cars that may not actually be approved. You can easily cross-check information on prior owners and service history with the DVLA. But why are approved cars worth this effort?
Warranties and Mileage
One of the more compelling reasons why you should be searching out approved used vehicles is the warranty. Again, details will differ from manufacturer to manufacturer, but approved cars will typically come with a fixed warranty period, relating either to time or mileage. This warranty covers you for any faults that develop in the months following your purchase, and can even include courtesy cars where extended servicing is needed.
Vehicle History
There are dozens of different details up for inspection when a car is being approved, and amongst these are details of the car’s history – both in terms of owner history and service history. Checks will turn up any evidence of prior accidents or write-offs, as well as criminal activity or theft – giving you the assurance that every approved car is healthy and above board.
MOT Cover
Manufacturers are keen to foster goodwill through used approval schemes and will do whatever they can to curry customer favour to that end. Many manufacturers will offer MOT coverage on top of warranty, as a catch-all if any defects are discovered within the first year of ownership.
Full Vehicle Checks
MOT coverage is little more than a failsafe, though, owing to the stringent quality checks manufacturers put approval candidates through. The service history is only one part of the equation, as mechanics examine the car directly for signs of wear or age, and correct them where appropriate.
This is a contributed post.