Common car buyer questions

Buying a new vehicle, especially in a tough economy like this, can be a frustrating and lengthy process because ensuring you get a good price is important. First, make sure you shop around so you can assess value for money on different vehicle models.

Consider the features that are standard on a vehicle and which ones are extras that will vary among models.

With the rising cost of gasoline, it is worth looking at fuel capacity and efficiency when assessing a vehicle’s value for money.

A slightly more expensive car initially may have better fuel efficiency than another one in its class, saving you money over the lifetime of the vehicle.

Also, ask the dealership how much you can expect to pay for a vehicle’s regularly scheduled maintenance.

Comparison

Give some thought to warranties when looking at the price of a new vehicle.

Find out what warranty comes with each vehicle model you are looking at and factor that into your comparison of what you get for your money. 

Finally, talk with the sales staff at the dealership to find out about a vehicle’s reputation and history before you make a purchase.

Paint stays the same colour as the day it was applied but, over time, the pigment changes colour and shade because of oxidation.

There are many factors that cause these changes such as exposure to ultra-violet light from sunshine, temperature and exposure to salt in the sea air.

The oxidation rate is also affected by the way the paint was applied initially.

Differences in the spray pressure, paint flow-rate and distance of the paint spray to the surface and the temperature at which the paint was applied can all affect the rate at which paint oxidizes.

In the auto body repair industry, colour-matching has become quite sophisticated and we use a state-of-the-art paint-matching system and a painting booth to make sure customers’ cars remain an even colour, even after body repair.

Prepare for TCD inspection prior to your appointment by taking your vehicle to a service establishment to repair anything that is not up to standard.

The top priority in a TCD inspection is your vehicle’s safety.

The inspector will check the brakes, including the emergency brake, steering, wheels, tyres, suspension, chassis, transmission and engine to make certain everything is properly adjusted and in working order.

The inspector will also check the bodywork and paint, doors, windshield, windshield wipers and windows. All must be in good condition and fully functional.

Safety

On a private car, no advertising lettering or offensive bumper stickers are allowed.

On the inside of the vehicle all safety instruments, such as the speedometer, mirrors and horn are checked, and the upholstery and seats are inspected.

For more information about TCD testing, go to www.gov.bm and take a look at the TCD Guide to Private Car Examination, which outlines the specific requirements in all of the above-mentioned areas.