Is your heart set on that new car smell, or going for the increasingly more common and economical option of a second-hand vehicle? Either way, we have all your car buying needs covered.
Not sure which option to go for? Consider the following:

Buying a used car

1. Do your research
To be in a strong negotiating position with sellers and dealers do your research before you buy.
2. Get expert advice
“What Car” and “Parkers” are great for checking the market value of the model you have your eye on as well as guidance on ride quality, fixtures and fittings.
3. Be thorough
Use the DVLA’s vehicle enquiry service, the Government’s MOT history check tool and order an HPI check for full details on the car including if it is stolen or has outstanding finance on it.

Buying a new car

1. Time it right
Aligning your purchase to quarterly sales targets at the end of March, June, September and December can mean dealers are more willing to negotiate.
2. Get a final price
Ask the dealer for a full and final breakdown of on the road costs such as delivery and number plates before committing.

3. Do you really need those optional extras
Try to stick to ones that could add to the resale value of your car, such as parking sensors or a built in sat nav. Review the period and terms of warranty cover before you commit to buying any additional cover.

Regardless of which purchase option is right for you, all car buyers need to think about:

The running costs

MOT: cars over 3 years old need to pass a MOT, each year at an authorised test centre. Allow up to £54.85 for the test fees, but do shop around.
Car tax: some cars are exempt, but after new rules came into force on 1 April 2017, most UK drivers will need to pay car tax. Find out more at gov.uk website.
Car insurance: shop around for the best deal and check the policy’s voluntary and compulsory excess. To find out more about Police Mutual car insurance and get a quote click here.
Fuel: this can really rack up so consider buying a car with low fuel consumption.
Breakdown cover: check to see if you already have cover with your car insurance or bank account or to find out more about Police Mutual breakdown cover click here.

Your finance options

If you are buying a used car from a dealership, you may be offered finance directly from them. If you are buying new, most dealers will offer a number of finance options which may include hire purchase loans and lease agreements. Be aware of any fees and charges that apply and remember to compare the rate of interest as these can vary widely.

Alternatively, arranging a personal loan from an independent provider separately from your used or new car purchase could allow you to shop around for the most favourable terms available to you.

To help you purchase your new car Police Mutual has teamed up with Neyber, our trusted partner, to offer a personal loan available from £2,000 - £25,000 over 1 to 5 years – 4.9% APR Representative.

To find out more about car loans and to get a free no obligation quote click here.

Important things you need to know

Please note, loans are not currently available for PSNI members and their families.

PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England & Wales No. 1073408. Registered office Alexandra House, Queen Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 6QS.

Neyber Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Interim permission: 663054. Registered address: First Floor (East), Tabernacle Court, 16-28 Tabernacle Street, London. EC2A 4DD. United Kingdom. Company registered number; 08806631 Data Protection Registration Number: ZA039009 358609.

Police Mutual car insurance is provided by RSA Insurance Group plc.

Police Mutual breakdown cover is provided by Equity Red Star Services Ltd. (Syndicate 218 at Lloyd's).