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Buying a used car in Ireland guide

1434446484965

Comments

  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 23,694 ✭✭✭✭L-M


    Igotadose wrote: »
    Hello all.

    We're relocating to Dingle in the next few months from the USA. Is there an online resource that describes what's involved with insuring a car? I think it has to be similar, but the terms are very different than what I'm used to in the US. Is there the equivalent of liability insurance, comprehensive insurance, collision, etc?

    What's the 'no claims' bonus? What is 'voluntary excess' and 'compulsory excess?' It seems like 'compulsory excess' is 'deductible' in the US, and maybe there's a minimum (compulsory) amount, where 'voluntary' you can buy into via higher premiums?

    A pointer to a dictionary would be much appreciated! Thank you

    Insurance is going to be very expensive for you when you land as you have no built up a "No claims bonus". That pretty much is as it says, it's a bonus for not claiming off your insurance policy. Everyone in Ireland will have an expensive insurance policy, it's just they will have a huge percentage of a discount off the premium for building up their no claims bonus. It is built up yearly and it goes to a maximum discount or years bonus of 5 (Some insurers 6+).

    So if and when you do come over, you will have to start from scratch and pay the 100% premium. Vehicle dependant this could amount to 3-4000 euros per annum. There is an Insurance company operating in Ireland that recognises US drivers and offers a lower premium, but I am not sure of their name.

    We have three types of insurance, Third party liability, Third party liability with fire and theft insurance and then Fully comprehensive insurance.

    Excess on a policy is the initial amount that you will have to pay in the event of a claim arising. Some insurers will offer a larger discount for a higher excess (Ie. if you are involved in an accident and the excess on your policy is €3,000, and the damage arises to €4,000, you will be liable for the first €3,000 and the insurer will pay the rest.) Voluntary and compulsory excess are self explanatory after that.


  • Registered Users Posts: 3 natsat79


    Hi, any advice on an 06 Fiat Punto for 1900 - it's done 110kms but he said he'd put in a new timing belt for me. Unfortunately I can't post the link as I'm a new user, but the car looks decent it does have a small ding in the rear door. It has nct till feb16. He's also using the "selling for friend" story, but i see it was sold to dealer a few months ago.
    Basically I need something reliable, safe, economical to run, cheap to tax & insure - any thoughts on if I should go for this car or look out for something else, and if so what? I could spend 3000 if it would get me something decent.

    thank you!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 523 ✭✭✭Helpneeded86


    How do people deal with deals in the 20k region when it comes to the exchange of money?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 73,478 ✭✭✭✭colm_mcm


    Are you buying or selling?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 523 ✭✭✭Helpneeded86


    colm_mcm wrote: »
    Are you buying or selling?

    Buying. I think that makes me slightly at less risk in a way. Il have met the guy once before the cash is exchanged aswell. He also claims he owns a business in the town.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 51,297 ✭✭✭✭bazz26


    €20k is alot of money to carrying on you. I'd either do the handover at a local bank branch or at a garda station.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 523 ✭✭✭Helpneeded86


    bazz26 wrote: »
    €20k is alot of money to carrying on you. I'd either do the handover at a local bank branch or at a garda station.

    Any reason not to do part bank draft?


  • Registered Users Posts: 3 natsat79


    natsat79 wrote: »
    Hi, any advice on an 06 Fiat Punto for 1900 - it's done 110kms but he said he'd put in a new timing belt for me. Unfortunately I can't post the link as I'm a new user, but the car looks decent it does have a small ding in the rear door. It has nct till feb16. He's also using the "selling for friend" story, but i see it was sold to dealer a few months ago.
    Basically I need something reliable, safe, economical to run, cheap to tax & insure - any thoughts on if I should go for this car or look out for something else, and if so what? I could spend 3000 if it would get me something decent.

    thank you!

    I'm still looking at the punto; just found out the top mounting shocks on the left hand side need replacing. It has passed NCT but i'm wondering will this give me trouble in the future or be expensive to fix?
    any advice would be much appreciated


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 23,694 ✭✭✭✭L-M


    Buying. I think that makes me slightly at less risk in a way. Il have met the guy once before the cash is exchanged aswell. He also claims he owns a business in the town.

    Don't even dream of handing over 20k cash! Be very, very cautious.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 51,297 ✭✭✭✭bazz26


    Any reason not to do part bank draft?

    Paying a dealer should be no problem but buying privately very unlikely someone would take a draft. Too many scams.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 523 ✭✭✭Helpneeded86


    Ya he seems pretty casual about it all. He has identified a business he owns in the town.

    Il probably go 15k draft and the rest cash.


  • Registered Users Posts: 2,831 ✭✭✭shineon23


    Anyone know is it still possible to do a reg check to see if a car is taxed and tested. I remember seeing a link to one on here last year but can't remember what website does it nor find the link


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 559 ✭✭✭sebphoto


    shineon23 wrote: »
    Anyone know is it still possible to do a reg check to see if a car is taxed and tested. I remember seeing a link to one on here last year but can't remember what website does it nor find the link


    http://mywheels.ie/
    http://www.motorcheck.ie/
    http://www.cartell.ie/


  • Registered Users Posts: 2,831 ✭✭✭shineon23


    sebphoto wrote: »

    Thanks but them sites are only giving me general vehicle details, year and engine size, without paying.

    I have used a free check before that stated when the NCT and tax were due. Just cannot remember where
    :rolleyes:


  • Registered Users Posts: 300 ✭✭Brasso


    shineon23 wrote: »
    Thanks but them sites are only giving me general vehicle details, year and engine size, without paying.

    I have used a free check before that stated when the NCT and tax were due. Just cannot remember where
    :rolleyes:
    http://www.carsireland.ie/add.php
    Stick the reg in there and it should tell you.


  • Registered Users Posts: 2,831 ✭✭✭shineon23


    Brasso wrote: »
    http://www.carsireland.ie/add.php
    Stick the reg in there and it should tell you.

    Thats the one, thanks Brasso!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 127 ✭✭MeheeHohee


    Currently looking at used A5's up north, found the following (will post spec as I cant post link). Why is this so cheap in comparison to similar models, is it worth viewing?
    Any advice is appreciated

    Type/Year: 2011 Audi A5 2.0 TDI S Line Special Ed [Start Stop]
    Miles:81000
    Location:Downpatrick
    Colour:White
    Engine Size:1,968
    Fuel Type:Diesel
    Transmission:Manual
    Seller: Private
    Price:£8500

    ABS, Alarm, Alloy Wheels, Audio Remote Control, Body Coloured Bumpers, Climate Control, Drivers Airbag, Electric Door Mirrors, Folding Rear Seats, Front Electric Windows, Front Fog Lights, Headlight Washers, Heated Door Mirrors, Immobiliser, Leather Seats, Passenger Airbag, Power Steering, Radio/CD, Remote Central Locking, Reverse Parking Aid, Service Indicator, Side Airbags, Sports Seats, Steering Wheel Rake Adjustment, Steering Wheel Reach Adjustment, Traction Control, Trip Computer


  • Moderators, Recreation & Hobbies Moderators, Social & Fun Moderators, Sports Moderators Posts: 12,804 Mod ✭✭✭✭Keano


    Time to finally move on my 04 1.9 TDI golf.

    Budget would be 12-13k and I'd be trading in my own with it.

    I do a lot of motorway driving and probably average 30,000kms a year.

    I play a lot of golf so need room for the clubs and a trolley! The boot in the golf is small. Ideally I'd like something with the same size engine as I have and around the 10 or 11 mark.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 51,297 ✭✭✭✭bazz26


    You will get better money for that Golf by selling it privately than trading it into a dealer who will most likely sell it on to the trade as it's too old to retail.

    Not the prettiest of yokes but the boot will definitely swallow a set of golf clubs:

    http://www.driving.ie/used-cars/Skoda/Superb/AMBITION-1.9/135114225243863220/


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 17,776 ✭✭✭✭keane2097


    How bad are the 1.6 petrol mondeos performance/economy wise? Some gorgeous 08/09s out there with nice spec in the €8-10k but I'm guessing there's a reason?


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 51,297 ✭✭✭✭bazz26


    They are underpowered and at 30k km per year they will rob you on petrol. Tax on the 09 ones is high too. They stopped selling them in 2010 because nobody wanted them anymore.

    If you want to stick to petrol in that size car then have a look at the new generation Toyota Avensis. 1.6 litre dual VVTi engine has 130bhp, €390 to tax and they are decent on fuel.

    http://www.driving.ie/used-cars/Toyota/Avensis/TOYOTA-AVENSIS/107414164023846920/


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 23,694 ✭✭✭✭L-M


    That got a bit of paint anyway, lol


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,449 ✭✭✭wolfyboy555


    When getting a vehicle inspection does the car have to have a current MOT? Justing reading on the RAC website:

    'A valid MOT Certificate (where applicable) and the vehicle’s DVLA registration documents should also be available for inspection.'


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 51,297 ✭✭✭✭bazz26


    The MOT has no bearing on cars in Ireland.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,449 ✭✭✭wolfyboy555


    bazz26 wrote: »
    The MOT has no bearing on cars in Ireland.

    Whoops. I meant to put this in the importing from uk thread!!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 51,297 ✭✭✭✭bazz26


    Whoops. I meant to put this in the importing from uk thread!!

    I'd ring the RAC for clarification to be honest. At a guess I'd presume they need the car to be MOT'd so that they can test drive it on a public road. Registration is probably to prove that the seller is the registered owner.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 13,865 ✭✭✭✭Igotadose


    Thanks again. Just got off the phone with an insurer who said we couldn't get insurance without an Irish license, at least a provisional license. Is that correct? Will try other insurers to confirm.


  • Registered Users Posts: 53 ✭✭phoenix99


    Apologies if this is in the wrong thread. I am just wondering has anyone had any dealings with this guy and what kind of experience you had? Based near Tramore in Waterford going by the ads.

    http:// cars.donedeal.ie/find/all/for-sale/Ireland/?filters%5BuserId%5D=1312773

    (had to put a space in the above address as I can't post URLs)

    Any feedback appreciated.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 23,694 ✭✭✭✭L-M


    Buy the time the VRT is paid on that you'd more than likely buy one in a main dealer, on a straight deal, with a full and proper warranty.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 17,776 ✭✭✭✭keane2097


    I've been looking to change my car (00 golf 1.4 - been giving some trouble) for a while but hadn't really seen anything I was too gone on in the budget (around €8k).

    Out of the blue, the mother is after offering me her Audi TT - 2005, around 100k miles - for €3.5k. It's the 1.8 petrol.

    From looking at prices people are looking for online for similar cars it seems like a great price, but there aren't many of them up for sale I can see to get a really good sense.

    Anyone care to comment on the bargain status or otherwise of this deal?

    I know people call TTs hairdressers cars etc and that the back seats are worthless, not too bothered on either of those fronts.

    More interested in whether €3.5K is a good price, whether they're reliable after 10 years/100k miles, and anything else if anyone has any experience of them?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 51,297 ✭✭✭✭bazz26


    Which version is it, 180bhp or 225bhp? Quattro? Coupe or Convert? Prices will vary depending on which version it is.

    How reliable it will be at 10 years old/100k miles will depend on it's service history so surely your mother being the owner, you are in the best position to know it's history.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 17,776 ✭✭✭✭keane2097


    bazz26 wrote: »
    Which version is it, 180bhp or 225bhp? Quattro? Coupe or Convert? Prices will vary depending on which version it is.

    How reliable it will be at 10 years old/100k miles will depend on it's service history so surely your mother being the owner, you are in the best position to know it's history.

    It's the 180bhp Coupe.

    Thanks for the tip re:service history - I'll have to quiz the old bird :)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 17,776 ✭✭✭✭keane2097


    Full service history and NCT till August as well...


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 51,297 ✭✭✭✭bazz26


    keane2097 wrote: »
    Full service history and NCT till August as well...

    Did she spend much on repairs or maintenance during the time she has owned it. If it's been relatively trouble free during that time then it could a good car to buy at that price. On the other hand I usually advise people against buying from relatives or friends as it can end up more hassle than it's worth.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 17,776 ✭✭✭✭keane2097


    bazz26 wrote: »
    Did she spend much on repairs or maintenance during the time she has owned it. If it's been relatively trouble free during that time then it could a good car to buy at that price. On the other hand I usually advise people against buying from relatives or friends as it can end up more hassle than it's worth.

    She's had no issues with it at all.

    I appreciate the advice and you're dead right to give it - I'll be going through the same steps I'd take with anyone else if I pull the trigger for sure!


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,944 ✭✭✭Bigus


    keane2097 wrote: »
    She's had no issues with it at all.

    I appreciate the advice and you're dead right to give it - I'll be going through the same steps I'd take with anyone else if I pull the trigger for sure!

    I can't believe you just said that :eek:

    You'd check out your mothers cars like a stranger's ?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 15,013 ✭✭✭✭Kintarō Hattori


    339847.jpg

    Hey Folks,

    The missus went looking at a Ka for me today. I could go and see it later on tonight but based on the photo above perhaps it's best to write it off? I know they can be prone to rust but how does the above look to you?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 51,297 ✭✭✭✭bazz26


    Run away as fast as you can.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 15,013 ✭✭✭✭Kintarō Hattori


    37685310.jpeg


    bazz26 wrote: »
    Run away as fast as you can.

    That's what I had thought and I had already discounted it but it was a shame really as it looked ace.


    http://cars.donedeal.ie/cars-for-sale/ford-ka-nct-till-sept/8632797?offset=20


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 51,297 ✭✭✭✭bazz26


    Fiestas and Kas of that vintage are notorious for rotting.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 15,013 ✭✭✭✭Kintarō Hattori


    bazz26 wrote: »
    Fiestas and Kas of that vintage are notorious for rotting.

    Indeed, I had known that was their major flaw hence why I had asked the missus to have a look underneath.

    Ah well, the search continues :)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 73,478 ✭✭✭✭colm_mcm


    What are your search critera?

    Tbh you're nearly wasting your time looking at kas that old.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 15,013 ✭✭✭✭Kintarō Hattori


    colm_mcm wrote: »
    What are your search critera?

    Tbh you're nearly wasting your time looking at kas that old.

    Well Colm, I'm 37 (late bloomer) and only have a years named experience on the missus' policy- she drives a 320i so I don't think I can go too wild. For a first car I was thinking something up to a max of 1.6L as insurance may be pretty steep. Baring that in mind I was thinking a max budget for the car of €1600. It's mostly going to be used to get to the train station so it needs to be a petrol.
    If I'm looking at the wrong stuff I'm more than happy to be pointed in the right direction.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 51,297 ✭✭✭✭bazz26




  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 15,013 ✭✭✭✭Kintarō Hattori


    bazz26 wrote: »

    Haven't I been reading here that low price Yaris' like this are likely to be trashed as they hold their value well and you need to pay more to pick up a decent one? :)

    Certainly from the photos that looks to be in great condition. Anything to look out for on them or are they reasonably bullet proof. I ask as it's fairly high mileage. Obviously need to check everything electrical works and that the screen displays A-OK.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 51,297 ✭✭✭✭bazz26


    That price is about right for a 1999 model though, it's 16 years old after all. I know pictures don't tell the whole story but it looks tidy enough. It would obviously still need to be checked by a mechanic.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,565 ✭✭✭Pangea


    Great guide, but If you are buying from a reputable trader, are questions like 'is the milage legitimate' necessary?, also would you still perform checking the oil step?


  • Registered Users Posts: 3 yokeybob


    singing" I can see clearly now the rain has gone" Ive been wreaking my head these past two days trying to buy a second hand car thanks a million for this guide


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,290 ✭✭✭-=al=-


    The guide on page 1 was in the newspaper last Sunday almost copied word for word! Anyone else notice?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 23,694 ✭✭✭✭L-M


    -=al=- wrote: »
    The guide on page 1 was in the newspaper last Sunday almost copied word for word! Anyone else notice?

    What paper?


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