Buying guide

The market for licence-free cars has been growing steadily in recent years, with a further +5% in 2017, appealing to an ever-younger public, and the benefits of these carts are increasingly attractive. When it comes to buying a new or used car, you have to ask yourself one question

In this buying guide, we'll try to shed some light on the pitfalls to avoid when buying a used car.

1) A few questions to ask yourself before buying a licence-free car

First of all, it's important to remember that the purchaser of a small car cannot rely on a roadworthiness test, as is the case for conventional cars. This should make you even more vigilant.

As you browse the various vehicle sales websites, you're faced with a choice: buy from a private individual or a professional?

The former gives you a competitive sale price and greater scope for negotiation, but offers no guarantees regarding the outcome of the purchase and possible surprises. Is it worth it?

Well, yes, but only if you take the time to look!

First of all, ask for the maintenance booklet right away. This should include all invoices for any repairs, as well as invoices for maintenance carried out on time to ensure the reliability and longevity of your VSP. The absence of these documents should scare you off, as they may reveal a lack of rigorous maintenance.

If the seller has this sesame, you should look into it, bearing in mind that a vehicle that goes to the garage too much is not necessarily a good sign.

Professionals, on the other hand, will generally provide you with vehicles they know and have serviced, and will not hesitate to offer you an extended warranty. That said, the purchase price will be higher for equivalent services than a vehicle offered by a private individual.

2) Let's take a closer look at buying a used small car from a private individual.

1. Examine the vehicle statically.

Don't be put off by the vehicle's overall appearance. Make sure the bodywork fits properly, and that the hood and doors close properly, otherwise the vehicle may have been involved in an accident. The same applies to the interior: seats are generally expensive and difficult to find, even when second-hand. Check that windows open properly, slide properly and are watertight.

2. Engine inspection.

A must, even for neophytes, this inspection is of the utmost importance. In case of doubt, ask a mechanic friend to accompany you, as he or she will be able to examine the buggy and reveal any small problems. Be on the lookout for oil leaks: replacing a simple spinnaker seal will cost you €45, while a water pump seal will force you to change the timing system (€300 minimum for parts and labor).

Whitish marks on battery terminals can be a sign of premature ageing and poor vehicle maintenance, as can radiators.

A crucial point is the replacement of the timing belt and the various peripheral components (water pump, tensioner...). Regular replacement will ensure the longevity of your future purchase!

We offer you the best parts at the best prices for your engine: our parts to repair your engine

3. To try it is to adopt it...or not.

As far as possible, ask the seller to try out the car. First of all, it may not correspond to your expectations, but it may also reveal defects invisible to the eye.

A steering wheel that pulls to the right, excessive vibration of the steering wheel, or a clattering wheel could be signs of a damaged or poorly-maintained front axle, requiring the replacement of fairly costly parts (cardan shaft, steering rack...)

Test your emergency braking, too. A spongy brake pedal is a sign of leaking brake fluid or a drum at the end of its life. It may be time to replace the part with new braking equipment.

4. How much does it cost?

The VSP market is quite large, and offers are plentiful, ranging from €15,000 to €2,000, with both good and bad deals on offer. If your budget allows it, opt for a vehicle less than 10 years old and with less than 20,000 km. To find out more about the prices of licence-free cars, go to our article: Table of licence-free car prices by brand (Aixam, Ligier, Microcar, etc.).

For example: Microcar M.GO from 2010 with 30,000 km count 6900€ at a Pro

Example : Aixam City 2015 with 13,000 km count €6990 for a private ad.

Last but not least, find out what's on the market and what vehicles are for sale. Competition can save you a few welcome euros!

4. Insure your car

Finally, don't forget to insure your licence-free car! We've put together a form to help you find the cheapest quote for your situation and the car you've chosen: See insurance quote request.