I have had a very bad experience with a 2001 V40 (180,000 k) but have decided that I'd like to give a newer V50 a chance. Have found one at a dealership (2009, 45,000 k, D2/136 Feeling, 16,500 euros), but I want to make sure I'm covering all the key points before buying (I've only purchased a used car once).
Any comments on the following things the dealer has said:
- The car will be fully serviced before purchase. Next major service will be at 65,000 k, will possibly include front brake pads, and will cost about 650 euros.
- No other major service required before distribution belt at 240,000 k.
- In terms of resale value, a car sold/first driven in December 2009 is as valuable as the next year's model sold/first driven in January 2010.
- 136 cv (instead of 115) makes the car more expensive.
- A "Feeling" package is essentially the same as a "Momentum" package.
Any key questions that I must be absolutely sure to ask?
Does anyone know where I can get a service guide online to estimate future service costs?
I'm also a bit concerned about the fact that the car was the "company car" of someone who worked at the dealership. Would this be better/worse/neutral compared to it having a previous "regular" owner?
Finally, they are offering 1,000 euros as a trade-in for my current car, which needs an expensive new turbo, among other things. Is this a fair deal?
Thanks in advance for any advice.
Buying used V50 from dealer--What to ask
1 There is nothing to ask.
2 Take a test drive to a respectable volvo shop and have them do a pre buy inspection.
3 take bad points on car compare with good aspects.
4 Bid on a price based on taking points or dollar amounts from dealer asking price.
In other words find out bad news first get estimate and then deduct that estimate from price if still interested and problems are not too expensive or can be lived with. Reach an agreement and make sure that if bought at dealer they include some perks, free oil changes for a year, free car washes with oil changes, maintenance schedule...etc....
2 Take a test drive to a respectable volvo shop and have them do a pre buy inspection.
3 take bad points on car compare with good aspects.
4 Bid on a price based on taking points or dollar amounts from dealer asking price.
In other words find out bad news first get estimate and then deduct that estimate from price if still interested and problems are not too expensive or can be lived with. Reach an agreement and make sure that if bought at dealer they include some perks, free oil changes for a year, free car washes with oil changes, maintenance schedule...etc....