CLOSING THE DEAL
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If you have found the truck of your dreams, or one that meets the financial constraints of your wallet, then you have to set about securing the deal...
if you are cash-rich, then it'll all be down to the asking price. If you aren't, then you have to consider the type of deal you might want. Hire-purchase, leasepurchase, lease, rental -the number of potential finance options can make your eyes water.
Ensure you aren't being sucked into a deal that looks nice on paper, but that you can't manage financially. Keep to the deposit you can fund and stick to the monthly/weekly budget put aside for a vehicle.
In truth you won't feel any pressure from a dealer, unless they are desperate to offload the vehicle. Haggle, remember VAT will be added on and be honest about what you can afford.
In terms of concessions, most franchised outlets will be more concerned about the aftermarket and will try to package a deal that includes the deposit, payments and repair and maintenance.
When it comes to backup make sure the site is within easy reach of your yard, otherwise getting it there for servicing and repairs will be a costly and timeconsuming exercise.
You can source servicing, repair and maintenance at a local unaffiliated operator/dealer/Workshop so be aware of your options. More importantly, if they haven't got what you want, shop around.
Do your homework, check the V5, check the mileage is genuine and find out its working and service history. Many operators prefer a particular marque, but don't allow sentimentality to rule your decision. Despite what your driver says, every manufacturer builds a reliable truck these days, although market perception means some similar products are worth more.
At auctions, simple rules apply. Do your research, decide on your budget, and stick to it. Auction houses offer a good range from the new and tidy to the old and knackered. Thankfully, there is little of the latter, and if it sounds unhealthy, then give it a miss unless you need it for parts.
If you are adamant that auction is the way to go, check out as many auction sales as possible, follow the bidding and see how competitive it gets. Pick a vehicle, set a price and see how it holds up.
CAP or Glass's Guide will give you an idea of how much it's worth, but, on the day, buyers will dictate the price. Reserve price is worth remembedng, as if it is not reached, the seller might not let it go. An experienced auctioneer will tell you if the reserve price has been exceeded during the bidding.
Here, it's bought as seen. You can kick the tyres, hear the driver rev the guts out of the driveline and assess the visible damage before it goes under the hammer. Bargains are available, but more experienced punters with more financial clout will be looking for the same bargains too. The V5 should be available, and most won't have an MOT If you are buying, always take trade plates to get it back to your base.