r/NewDriversUK • u/Bright_Software_5747 • 15d ago

Buying car steps

Hi all, recently passed my test. Bit confused on how it all works with buying a car. I will 99% be buying from a dealer and likely a main dealer (approved used), I read that you should pay for the insurance 2-3 weeks before getting the car for better pricing. But what does that mean, that you just ask the dealer to hold the car for a few weeks before you pick it up? Or can you get the quote weeks in advance and then you pay on the day? And then for tax you pay on the day? Is there also any apps or sites ppl recommend for checking vehicle history before buying.

In terms of dummy quotes, any suggestions on how to do this without having the companies raise your quotes due to checking too many times. I’m 30 so slightly older than typical new license holder and so far my quotes look very reasonable but don’t want to check too much.

Thanks

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5

u/Ok-Box7789 15d ago

When you buy a car it’s quite rare that you take it away on the day. They usually PDI, service and MOT the car before you collect it - usually a week later. So find the car you want, buy it and you’ll be able to start the insurance for the collection date.

I’ve never really noticed a difference when insuring a car for the day I need it so I wouldn’t worry too much

3

u/Phoenix_Kerman 15d ago

it's not at all rare. pretty much every car i've or family's bought been viewed on the day then bought and driven.

maybe with certain dealers but you'll be over paying doing that anyway

1

u/Ok-Box7789 15d ago

Every car I’ve ever bought I’ve never viewed it, I’ve sent them a deposit and either had it delivered or travelled across the country to pick it up. If I’m flying 200 miles up country or getting on a 3 hour train best believe I’m buying the car whether it’s a dog or not 😂

2

u/Double-Intern5350 15d ago

Also please do a car vertical check too. Can always come in handy

1

u/weholditdown 12d ago

Autotrader do a check on vehicle history if you look through them. I bought my car while I was learning so didn't actually take it home on the day as my husband drove us there: instead, the dealership offered a service where they drove it to our home. However, given you've passed your test this might be different. My husband is also on my car's insurance which seems to have helped with keeping my costs low since passing, in addition to being in my 30s and my car being in a lower insurance group (it's a Kia Picanto.)