Buying a used family car: how to make the right choice
When it comes to buying a used family car, there’s plenty to consider. While you may have previously bought cars according to your own personal preference, with a family, there are wider issues to consider such as safety, functionality and budget. To help ‘steer’ you in the right direction, we’ve put together some key points.
Safety
Safety is paramount when it comes to carting around your offspring. Different models of cars have different safety ratings and therefore it’s best to check these ratings on the Euro NCAP. This is the European standard for car safety, which rates models from 0-5 depending on the safety features and results in crash tests. We’d recommend searching for a model with a score of five.
Budget
Family cars are usually bigger than city cars, and as such, can be pricier. However, if you know where to look, there are plenty of affordable second-hand cars out there. It’s important to know what your budget is and what your priorities are, so you can narrow down your choices and ensure you’re buying a used family that suits your needs and doesn’t break the bank.
Size
Size matters when it comes to family cars – you need to ensure there’s enough room for your children and all of the baggage that comes with them (prams, luggage, travel cot etc). As well as boot space, it may also be worth considering whether you plan on having more children in the near future and if so, working out how many seats you will need.
Isofix Points
Mandatory for all cars built since 2013, Isofix points are a system for integrating child car seats – pretty important, considering children must use a car seat up until the age of twelve. Most cars come with two Isofix points in the back, but some family cars also have three – which will come in handy if you have (or are planning on having) a large family.
5-Doors
It’s essential when buying a used family car that you opt for a five-door model (four doors and a boot). Leaning over to put your children in their car seats is really not ideal. It’s also important to check the back seats have child locks.
Interior
Whilst cloth-covered seats may be more budget-friendly, it may be worth spending a little extra on a wipeable fabric such as leather or faux leather. It could save you money in the long run and means you won’t have to endure mystery stains and smells!
Running Costs
Depending on the size of your family, it’s likely that you will be using the car a lot, especially when your children have their own schedules. Therefore, it’s worth researching how economical your chosen car model is, with a particular focus on fuel efficiency.
Optional Extras
If you have a little wiggle room in your budget, it may be worth considering a car with some family-friendly extras, such as USB ports for entertainment on those long journeys. Extra safety features like parking sensors could also be worth splashing out on, especially if you live in a built-up, urban area.
Browse used family car deals using our user-friendly search function.
About CarsVansandBikes.com
CarsVansandBikes.com: Revolutionizing Vehicle Advertising in the Digital Age
In the ever-evolving digital landscape, the quest for the perfect vehicle - be it a car, van, or motorbike - has been transformed by the emergence of CarsVansandBikes.com. Launched in 2021, this digital advertising website has rapidly become the go-to platform for motorists seeking new or pre-owned vehicles. Embodying the ethos As easy as CVB, the platform simplifies the search process, making it more accessible and user-friendly.
What sets CarsVansandBikes.com apart in the crowded online marketplace is its commitment to unbiased advertising. In a marked departure from industry norms, CVB eschews advertising or sponsored listings. This principled stance ensures that all vehicles are presented on CarsVansandBikes.com without any undue influence or bias, offering a refreshingly transparent experience for users. This approach starkly contrasts with other platforms where sponsored listings can often skew visibility and influence consumer choice.
The fair and transparent cataloging of advertising stock on CarsVansandBikes.com is another cornerstone of its service. By providing comprehensive details of each vehicle, beyond just listing prices, the platform empowers motorists to make well-informed decisions. This depth of information is crucial in an industry where the nuances of each vehicle can significantly impact buyer satisfaction.
A standout feature of CarsVansandBikes.com is its pricing model. When it first graced the online automotive advertising scene, CVB distinguished itself by not charging extra fees. In a bold move for 2024, the platform has further elevated its commitment to affordability. Now, neither motor dealers nor private motorists are required to pay to advertise their vehicles on the site. This initiative is a significant stride in democratizing vehicle advertising, allowing sellers of all scales to reach potential customers without financial barriers.
The platform's ethos of connecting sellers directly with potential buyers is a testament to its user-centric design. CarsVansandBikes.com goes beyond mere transactional interactions, fostering a community where detailed vehicle information is readily available. This approach not only aids in the selling process but also ensures that buyers are better equipped to make choices that align with their needs and expectations.
Operating under the trade name CarsVansandBikes.com, CarsVansandBikes Limited has positioned itself as a trailblazer in the automotive advertising industry. By offering its services completely free of charge, the platform breaks down traditional barriers, making vehicle advertising more accessible and equitable.
As CarsVansandBikes.com continues to grow and evolve, its impact on the automotive market is undeniable. With its user-friendly interface, commitment to unbiased advertising, and innovative approach to cost, CVB is not just a platform; it's a paradigm shift in how we find and advertise vehicles in the digital age.