Buying a used car for your daily commute is a big expense and not a decision to rush into. You’ll likely spend a lot of time in your car getting to and from work each day, so you’ll want something reliable, comfortable, and well-suited to your needs. Here are some things to look for when shopping for a used car for getting to and from work.
Fuel Efficiency
One of the biggest expenses of commuting by car is petrol costs. Look for used cars with good fuel efficiency ratings to save money at the pumps. Smaller engines like 1.0-litre and 1.2-litre petrol or diesel engines often provide excellent mileage. Hybrid models and EVs are also worth considering if your commute involves stop-start driving, especially if your workplace has charging points for EVs.
Check online reviews and owner forums to get an idea of real-world mileage for any car you’re considering.
Reliability and Maintenance Costs
Ongoing maintenance and repair costs can really add up, especially on an older used car. Do some research to find models and years with solid reliability and affordable servicing requirements. Japanese and Korean brands like Toyota, Honda, and Kia are known for dependability. Check service histories and look for cars younger than 5-6 years old to minimise the risk of major repairs. Consider warranty options for added peace of mind.
Comfort and Convenience Features
You’ll be spending lots of time behind the wheel, so comfort is key. Test drive cars and make sure you can find a comfortable driving position. A car supermarket near London if you live in the southeast is a good place to start, as you can check out a wide range of different makes and models.
Lumbar support, seat adjustments, and steering wheel tilt are important. Also, look for features like cruise control, Bluetooth, and heated seats to make your commute more pleasant. Effective climate control and noise insulation also help.
Safety Ratings
Don’t compromise on safety – it should be your top priority. Look for cars with 5-star Euro NCAP ratings. Evaluate safety tech like ABS brakes, traction control, and multiple airbags. Safety systems like auto emergency braking are being fitted on more used cars now too. Avoid older cars that lack modern safety equipment.
Practicality
Think about your needs in terms of cargo and passenger space. Hatchbacks and estates provide versatility for carrying cargo or kids. Measure boot dimensions to ensure your car can fit strollers, sports gear or other bulky items. SUVs provide extra height and 4×4 capability in wintry conditions. Pick the right body style for your requirements.
Insurance and Road Tax Costs
Insurance and road tax vary widely between makes, models, and engine sizes – so do your research. Use online quotes to estimate insurance for any car you’re considering. Also, check DVLA data for precise road tax rates by CO2 emissions, fuel type, and vehicle age to avoid surprises. Factor these recurring costs into your decision.
Test Drives and Inspections
Take time to thoroughly test drive and inspect any used car before you commit to buying. A little due diligence goes a long way. Make sure to take the car to a trusted mechanic to check for any issues that are not immediately apparent. It’s worth paying for an inspection to avoid later headaches.
Don’t feel rushed into a purchase – take your time evaluating multiple options to find the best used car for your commute.
