If you’re looking for one of the safest options to buy a car, then choosing a used approved car may be the right choice for you.

We give you the low-down on car manufacturer’s used and approved schemes.



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What is a used approved car?

Basically what it says on the tin – it’s been used by a previous owner and then returned or sold to the original dealer, before being repaired, checked and approved by the same dealer.

Used approved vehicles are moved into a showroom, where they are made available to buyers again.

This makes it easier for you to purchase a specific model with many of the assurances of buying new – without the cost.

The benefits

For peace of mind, buying a used car from a manufacturer has its advantages. Apart from good sales service and car reliability, you can expect these strong points from a used approved motor:

• No mechanical defects
• Fully accredited history
• Usually nearly new and well maintained
• Good payment options; sometimes you can drive off before your money has gone through
• Often comes with free warranty, insurance and breakdown cover
• Manufacturer guarantees and code of practice
• You might even be able to part exchange your old car

Where to buy

Most car manufacturers have their own used and approved schemes – all differ in price and service, but essentially remain the same in terms of what they offer: quality used cars.

It’s not only car manufacturers which offer these schemes either – many motorcycle dealers offer them and you may find vans in some of the schemes too.

To look for a particular make or model, decide on what you’re looking for - then use our website to look for a model. Alternatively, search online for your preferred car manufacturer and contact them directly.

Checks and procedures

To qualify as used approved, all vehicles must first go through a detailed pre-sales inspection, where any faults found are fixed. This makes the purchase a safe one.

The car will also have its service history checked, as well as regular mechanical checks before being sold.

We contacted various car manufacturers to see what tests are exactly made.
Here are details of what is checked and fixed:

Levels
All liquid-oriented components are checked – this includes the brake fluid, front and rear screen washers, shock absorbers, power steering, clutch fluid and coolants.

Electronics
Anything which runs off the car battery is examined – things like all interior and exterior lights, clocks, door mirrors, the radio, air conditioning, front and rear screen wipers, electric windows and of course, the car horn.

Safety features
All aspects of car safety are carefully looked at – from airbags to seat belts, fuel reserves to hazard warning lights, and central locking to the handbrake.

Technical tests
Various detailed movement tests are carried out, to ensure everything still works correctly. Some of these checks include the simple task of opening and closing doors, adjusting the seats, winding down the windows and opening the sunroof, gear changes and the temperature gauge.

Object movement
Next comes the time for the door hinges to be greased, as well as fuel tests, spark plug examination, the timing of the ignition is recorded and the front axle is greased too.

Visuals
The windscreen is analysed, as are various in-car tools and the first aid kit. The interior is inspected and the car specifications are measured and checked to make sure everything is the right size.

Road movement
The vehicle is extensively tested on-road, to make sure everything runs smoothly. The exhaust system is given a good run through its paces, as is the heating system, traction control, cruise control, brakes, steering, clutch and more.

After road
After the test drives comes even more series of tests – this time the paintwork is examined; service history is looked into and compared with the recent service test.

Tyres
Finally the tyre condition is looked into, from tread depth to make and type. Also, air pressure and other factors are taken into account, including the temperature of the tyres and more.

This full service including both interior and exterior checks is standard with most used and approved schemes – showing their reliability.

Check with the individual dealer with what their schemes cover before deciding on a model too rashly.