Congratulations! Hit the Road with Confidence in Your New Used Car
Congratulations! You’ve just secured the used car you’ve been dreaming of. Before you hit the open road on your first adventure, let’s ensure your new (to you) vehicle is ready to drive. Here at Bartlett Automotive, we want to help you get the most out of your pre-owned car.
- Secure Your Ownership: Register You as the Owner
This isn’t just paperwork – it’s proof you’re the rightful owner! Whether you purchased from a dealer or private seller, register the ownership to your name with the vehicle log book (V5C).
DVLA Government Website
This involves some paperwork, or this can be done online via the DVLA Government website here: https://www.gov.uk/sold-bought-vehicle
In most cases the seller will usually register a used vehicle for you.
Here’s what they’ll typically do:
- Register the vehicle to you online (the easiest option)
- Fill out and give you the green ‘new keeper’ slip
- Destroy the old V5C (they no longer need this)
However, if the seller prefers to register by post they’ll need to:
- Complete the correct section in the V5C depending on its style (new or old)
- Sign the declaration in section 8 if they have the older style V5C (you must sign the declaration too)
- Fill out and give you the green’ new keeper’ slip.
- Send the V5C to DVLA
Crucially, never buy a used car without a V5C!
If the seller registers online, you should receive your V5C within 3-5 days. By post, it might take longer. If it doesn’t arrive before 6 weeks, contact the DVLA to avoid getting charged for a replacement.
Double-check everything! Once you have your V5C, make sure all your details are correct. If there are any mistakes, update them and send the corrected V5C back to the DVLA address:
DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1BA
- Insure Your car: Get Coverage
Here in the UK, you can’t drive a car without at least third-party liability insurance, which covers injuries and damage to others if you’re at fault in an accident. Contact your current insurance provider to see if you can add your new car to your existing policy or get quotes from different providers to find the best coverage options for you.
Remember, third-party only protects others’ property and injuries – you might want to consider comprehensive and collision insurance for added peace of mind, especially for a new (to you) car. This will cover your own vehicle for damage caused by fire, theft, accident, or vandalism.
If at any point you would like to check that a vehicle is insured here is a user-friendly tool to help, just visit this link: Check your vehicle
Motor Insurance Database
Check a Vehicle is insured here: https://www.mib.org.uk
- Tax Your Car
You need to tax your vehicle before you use it on the road. The good news is, it’s easy to check the current rates for different vehicles – just pop over to this government website: https://www.gov.uk/vehicle-tax-rate-tables
Taxing your car is easy. You can do it all online at: https://www.gov.uk/vehicle-tax just follow the instructions and have your green ‘new keeper’ slip from your car’s log book (V5C handy and you’ll be good to go in no time.
- Peace of Mind Through Inspection
Unless you had a pre-purchase inspection, schedule one with a trusted mechanic like Bartlett Automotive. An inspection will identify potential issues with the engine, gears, brakes, tyres, and other critical components. Addressing these concerns now can save you from bigger problems (and expenses) down the road.
- Unlock the Secrets: Consult Your Owner’s Manual
This might not be as exciting as a road trip, but the owner’s manual is a treasure trove of information. From maintenance schedules to troubleshooting tips, it will help you understand and get the most out of your car. Don’t have a manual? Search online using your car’s year, make, and model for a downloadable version.
- Get Acquainted Behind the Wheel: Know Your Car
The best way to truly know your car is to experience it first hand. Take some time to familiarise yourself with the controls – lights, wipers, climate control, audio system, and most importantly, any unique features of your car. Once comfortable, practice driving in different conditions to understand how your car handles.
- Plan for the Future: Establish a Maintenance Schedule
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your car running smoothly and safely. Consult your owner’s manual to create a personalised schedule for oil changes, tyre rotations, and other essential services. Sticking to this routine will extend the life of your car and save you money in the long run.
- Ready for Every Season
Just like you swap out your wardrobe, your car care needs to adapt with the seasons!
As summer heat rises, check fluid levels (oil, coolant) to ensure smooth operation. Don’t forget to verify your air conditioning performance – nobody enjoys a sweltering commute.
Before autumn arrives with falling leaves and increased rain, inspect your wiper blades for wear and tear, check your tyres are in tip top condition. Ensure all lights function properly for shorter, less visible days.
Winter can be a wonderland or a woe for your car. Consider switching to winter tyres for better traction on snowy roads. Additionally, check your antifreeze levels to protect your engine from freezing temperatures.
Finally, spring brings a chance to refresh after winter’s salt and grime. Schedule an oil change and tyre rotation to get your car ready for warmer weather adventures.
Be ahead with pre-season inspections at Bartlett Automotive. Our technicians will ensure your car is ready for the season.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure your pre-owned vehicle is ready for all your adventures to create lasting memories!
Bartlett Automotive is always here to help you keep your car cruising smoothly for years to come. Book in today!
