CONSUMERS suffer because buyers do not take vehicles to the Automobile Association (AA) for inspection before purchasing the vehicle.

But buying a used car does not need to be a stressful experience or something you regret in the future. In fact, if you do your homework and consider your options wisely, it has the potential to be the best investment you'll ever make.

Here are tips and advice on buying second-hand cars:

- Insist on seeing all the car's paperwork and inspect the service record carefully;

- Check the vehicle thoroughly and hire a professional to conduct a full mechanical check;

- Test drive the vehicle;

- Draw up a budget and don't be tempted to exceed it;

- Beware of trusting used car salesmen - they're out to make a profit;

- Always try to lower the selling price through negotiation;

- Don't purchase the vehicle unless you are 100% satisfied with it;

- A roadworthy certificate merely indicates the vehicle satisfies minimum safety requirements;

- Shop around;

-  Beware of unscrupulous used car dealers;

-  An alarming trend to be aware of is used car dealers who are advertise as private sellers in order to get more out of the deal than the car is worth. A telltale sign to look for is if the person answering the phone asks you to specify which car you are enquiring about, as this indicates he or she is selling several vehicles;

- It is also common for used car dealers to inflate selling prices. The higher the price, the greater the profit and commission.

- Be careful of smooth-talking dealers that are so good at what they do, that without knowing it, you find yourself buying all those "extras" that you don't need and didn't want in the first place.

-  Again, check the used vehicle thoroughly before making the purchase. This point really cannot be stressed enough. Just because a car looks spotless, sparkling and perfect, does not mean that it is.

A thorough check goes beyond ensuring that the seats aren't torn and the hooter works. You, a friend or a professional must inspect the car thoroughly - from its body and tyres to the engine and interior; and

-  Consult the AA's checklist before making the decision to buy. - Sourced from www.assist247.co.za