The slowdown in the UK economy and subsequent recession is obviously detrimental not only for Britain itself but also for British people, although it has one benefit: there has never been a better time to buy a used car.
The Government Scrappage Scheme may be a very good incentive for someone who owns a 10 year old banger to trade in for 2,000 pounds off a brand new vehicle, yet the best value remains in purchasing from the used market.
When buying second hand it is always a factor to find out which models are the most reliable. The most reliable manufacturers in recent years tend to be Japanese. In terms of buying a car that won't be in and out of the garage, your best bet would be to look at a used Honda.
The second largest Japanese motor manufacturer has won many reliability awards both in Europe and worldwide over the past decade and have also featured high up the satisfaction surveys.
There are many used Honda dealers on hand to help you find the right car - I would always advise to buy a car from an authorised dealer as opposed to a private garage or forecourt simply because customer service is
very good and you have the peace of mind that the car will have been thoroughly check by a mechanic who works specifically with a particular brand of vehicle.
A 12 month warranty will also come as standard with most approved dealerships, used Honda cars for example all come with a 12 month Honda Happiness guarantee with the option for an extended warrantee.
By going down this route you will be safeguarding your purchase. Of course there is nothing like purchasing a brand new car, being able to customise it in terms of colour, interior, plus all the many extras that are available with new vehicles today - there is nothing quite like the smell of a brand new car, when you sit behind the wheel.
But in terms of financial prudence, buying a brand new car is a no-no as the car loses value as soon as you speed out of the showroom. It may look good, make you feel good and make the world seem a better place, but in these times of financial uncertainty, will not be the best financial move you'll make. Buying a used car will be more cost effective, but only if it is a reliable vehicle.
Author Resource:-
Thomas Pretty is a market analyst with many years of experience analysing the used car industry. Find out more about used Honda at http://www.hondainchcape.co.uk/