The Latest News and Advice from South Downs Car Sales

When you’re buying a used car, going for a test drive is a really important step for making sure you’re comfortable with the car and that it’s in good working order. But what are you looking for? And what insurance do you need before you even get started? This comprehensive guide to taking a car for a test drive covers this and more. 

What insurance do you need to test drive a car?

If you’re buying a car from a dealership, they should have special cover in place for you. However, if you’re buying privately you …

Buying a car, whether it’s new or used, is a major purchase for anyone so you’ll want to make sure you know exactly what you’re buying. By asking a few crucial questions when looking to buy a used car in particular, you may avoid some very expensive problems in the future. The vendor is obliged to answer your questions truthfully, or they will be breaking the law.

Here is a list of key questions to ask the seller when you’re buying a used car and a couple that you should be able to answer yourself when you inspect and …

One of the top questions from first time used car buyers is ‘what documents should I get when buying a used car?’ The good news is that if you’re buying from a dealership they will have a streamlined process to ensure everything is in order before you even see the car. However, it can be a bit more tricky if you’re buying privately and it’s essential that you get it right to ensure that you are driving the car away legally. Either way, it’s important to know what to look out for.

V5C 

The V5C is also known …

As the days are getting shorter and the colder months are fast approaching, a few minutes spent making some basic checks on your car could save you a lot of hassle in winter weather. The number of breakdowns typically increases during the winter due to temperatures dropping and worsening driving conditions. Minor mechanical problems can be exacerbated in cold weather. Here are some simple things that you can do now to keep your car in tip top condition through to the spring. 

1. Check the battery

Some of the most common issues that …

Over the last year, with several periods of lockdown and advice to work from home and only travel when essential, many of us have found our mileage dropping significantly. Cars that have usually been used for the daily commute have been left stationary in driveways for long periods of time. 

This isn’t the best news for our cars as a variety of issues can emerge if they are left without any attention for long stretches of time. The last thing you want is to return to your car to discover a flat tyre or that it won’t start. Or …