Beware of buying an "old" new car under the scrappage scheme
publication date: May 27, 2009
Motorists who are encouraged to trade in their old rust bucket for a new car under the Car Scrappage Scheme could easily receive a rust bucket in exchange claims a new report.
Car makers have been stockpiling vehicles for the last 18 months as new car sales suffer the biggest fall for years. Some car factories have not produced a single vehicle for months as they try to clear existing stock. Vehicles have been stored on airfields and wasteland for up-to a year waiting for the car sales market to pick up.
A vehicle that has been parked-up for several months can look like new after a dealer gives it a blast with a Jet wash and a bit of polish. However, vital parts such as Brakes, Catalytic Converters and Batteries can be damaged when a vehicle is parked up for long periods.
Martin Mosley, technical expert at Mail Order specialists, Car Parts Direct said, "Owners buying a new vehicle should look for pitting on the Brake discs. Check for pulling or judder on the brakes.
"This can be a result of a sticking Brake Caliper that has seized on because of lack of use. Car Batteries sulphate if a vehicle is not started for several months. A boost start will get a vehicle running but the overall life expectancy of the battery will be reduced. Dormant moisture in exhausts and Catalytic Converters created by condensation creates internal corrosion."
Many of the parts affected such as brakes, batteries and exhausts are classed as "wear and tear items" and are not normally covered under extended warranty schemes - the owner is left with the cost of replacement parts.
Martin Mosley recommends checking the battery date code which is normally plain and visible. This can give a clue to the real build date of the car. When buying a new car it's a case of buyer beware and asking yourself the question. ‘Is my old banger really that bad?'
To learn how to check the condition of vehicle Brakes, Shock Absorbers and Suspension Coil Springs watch the online help videos on the home page of Wheels Within Wales.
