A MOTORS expert has revealed why you shouldn’t buy a brightly coloured car – as it will end up costing you a hefty sum.
The used car market is continuing to grow as people look to reduce costs and make savings amid the cost of living crisis.
GettyA brightly-coloured car may be harder to sell on the second-hand market[/caption]
Research conducted by Bristol Street Motors have revealed five tips to help drivers save money on their next car.
It may seem surprising but the choice of colour can be a factor in a car’s resale value and general maintenance.
Cars which have, say, a lime green, burnt orange or a bright lemony-yellow paint job may match your personal tastes but they are notoriously tricky to sell on the second-hand market.
That’s because those colours are more a niche choice making it harder to find a willing buyer, which could either mean you are forced to lower the asking price if you want a quick sell or having to wait longer for a suitable offer.
With a car’s colour in mind, the experts also advise to always thing about a vehicle’s resale value.
It’s best to go with a model that will sell well on the used car market which will save you money over a model that usually struggles to drum up buyers.
Along with the make and model, check the mileage if you’re trying to save money in the long term.
The experts say that the mileage is more than a number – it’s an indicator of the condition of a car.
When buying a car don’t just think about the price of the motor and if you can meet it but you need to also consider insurance.
Premiums can soar to eye-watering amounts if you’re not careful.
Models with economical engines usually become significantly cheaper to insure than performance models.
Certain brands can only be repaired at specialist shops, so consider that before buying your new motor.
The experts also advise picking a car that fits your everyday requirements – and forget about any flashy extra features.
A sleek 4×4 may be eye-catching but if you want to use your car most of the time for the office commute what’s the point?
You’d be better going for a cheap city runaround costing £5,000 that is nippy and fuel efficient rather than some bigger car that may look good but is twice the price.
The experts also say you should also think about fuel when buying a car.
Not only is it the biggest outlay you’ll spend on your car, but these costs differ wildly from model to model.
Typically, diesel cars offer a better fuel economy, although petrol prices per litre are lower than diesel.
This comes back to the point about prioritising the essentials.
If you’re only completing short journeys, then opt for a petrol engine, whereas diesel models are more cost-effective for regular long-haul drives.
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GettyYou may need to reduce the asking price if you want a quick sale of brightly-coloured motor[/caption]