Le Bon Coin and used car – Number one in car classifieds, Le Bon Coin has become essential for buying a used car. Here are 10 tips from our occasion specialist, Nicolas Briouze, to separate the wheat from the chaff.
1 – Specify your criteria. Refine your search criteria as much as possible by specifying the exact model you want (make, model, body type, but also engine, transmission, mileage, price and possibly region).
2 – Choose detailed ads. Choose the most detailed and best-written ads, available with good quality photos (on Le Bon Coin, the free ad can include three photos). Select the five or six ads that most closely match your criteria, in order of preference (rates, mileage, region, etc.). The ideal is to give preference to “first-hand” models, in which case the seller is supposed to have full knowledge of his car’s history and should therefore be able to provide all maintenance invoices.
3 – Avoid bogus ads. Avoid overly succinct announcements which do not specify the engine or the mileage (or which display 40,000 km – this mileage being that of the engine, the car having 250,000)! Also avoid folkloric ads that offer you an exchange for a quad or a lawn mower! Finally, avoid announcements justified by an alibi, which is often bogus (divorce, death, transfer, duplication, etc.).
4 – Don’t neglect the pros. Take an interest in both private and professional announcements. Be aware that in the event of a hidden defect, it will be much easier for you to turn against a professional, who is required to offer a guarantee of at least 3 months, or even now 6 months. A completely overhauled car in a manufacturer’s network will justify a higher price tag.
An individual disappears more easily than a pro
5 – Take an average. Establish the average rating of the models you want, by looking at the ratings on certain specialized sites. In any case – and especially if the model you are interested in is unusual – check out similar ads on other sites. Do not hesitate to call other advertisers to find out at what price they sold their car.
6 – Talk to the seller. Get in touch with the seller and ask them the right questions: why is he selling it? Since when does he own it? Get details of the condition of the mechanics, the bodywork, the interior, the tires, etc. What does the technical inspection say (compulsory for models over 4 years old). Is the maintenance book up to date? Does he have all the corresponding invoices? If the car is more than 4 or 5 years old or more than 90,000 km and if its timing is by belt, has it been replaced (if so, the invoice must be available). The seller must answer all these questions with precision and it is at this precise moment that you can form a good first opinion on the car and on the seller … If this is not the case, or if you have the slightest doubt, go your way.
Nothing replaces a good discussion
7 – Watch out for good deals. Beware of too attractive prices or too low mileage; a 10-year-old car with 30,000 km is not necessarily a good deal (the odometer may have been set back or, if the car has been very little driven, that does not mean that it will be in good condition: car does not like to stay in the garage…).
8 – Too bad if it is (a little) too expensive. Conversely, do not rule out models above their rating because fewer potential buyers will contact the seller and you can always try to lower the price after the test.
9 – Compare the sites. Many sellers have also placed their advert on other well-known sites; do not hesitate to consult them and, if necessary, to cross-reference the information.
10 – Go see the car together. Finally, if you are going to see the car, go there in broad daylight. Consult the registration document and the technical inspection and check that the condition corresponds in all points to the description made by the seller. Have a relative or friend accompany you; together it will be much easier for you to spot any faults. Take the time to examine the car from every angle, bodywork, interior, accessories, etc. before getting behind the wheel for a long time on a mixed course.
=> Advice, advice, reliability: go to our Opportunity section to avoid the galleys (as below)
The right place to find a used Audi
Buying second-hand allows you to make great savings while having the possibility of owning a vehicle in very good condition. Some big brand cars are therefore much more accessible than if you bought them new, and that is why it is also interesting.
You can find a used audi online at prices that defy the competition. The car of your dreams is just a few clicks away.
And don’t panic, all important information is highlighted. In addition to the photographs showing the vehicle, the model is indicated, as well as the mileage, or even the vehicle’s entry into service. If you are interested in a car, you can reach the seller by email or phone to get more information and set up an appointment to see the car in real life.
The second-hand market is exploding, and it’s a great way to help nature and your wallet. Do not think anymore that the cars of big brands are not within your reach. With the second hand, you may be surprised at the prices that are offered.
Do not hesitate to take a tour online to discover all the vehicles on sale.
More auto tips that could save you from a lot of miseries:
Engine oil change: price, when and how to do it?
How to contest a ticket?
How to break in the engine of a new car?
Going on vacation: what should you check on your car?
Photo by A: Necip Yanmaz / Getty Images
