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Wheeler Dealers’ Mike Brewer has warned motorists should do this one check on second-hand used cars this winter.
The host of the classic car restoration series stressed road users must read the information sheet at car auctions before parting with their cash.
These sheets contain a range of details, such as the car’s average mileage, age and price.
But, any updates on vehicle “battery charge” are super important and should be checked immediately before considering a deal.
Mike explained where to find details on ‘battery charge’ as he walked around a car auction fishing deals for his One Automotive dealership in Leamington Spa.
Speaking on YouTube, Mike said: “Information, it tells you about the car. The registration number, it’s done 134,000 miles, they’ve got the V5, its VAT is marginal, it tells you everything.
“It’s got an X next to ‘battery charge’. So you know right from the off this is going to need a battery so another £100 to spend.”
Sellers are legally required to declare any known faults and cannot hide problems from prospective buyers.
The Consumer Rights Act 2015 will protect buyers if a car develops a fault soon after purchase.
However, this cannot be used if individuals were aware of the car’s condition but changed their minds later down the line.
Experts at WhatCar? said: “Dealers are not required to rectify any component that fails due to ‘fair wear and tear’, such as tyres or brake discs that wear out due to normal use.
“That also applies to any specific fault a dealer told you about prior to purchase.
“The Consumer Rights Act cannot be used to reject a car if you’ve simply changed your mind about buying it, either.”
The average cost of a replacement battery in the UK is anywhere between £100 and £400.
Prices can vary depending on the size of the car battery, the brand of the vehicle and the quality of the battery being purchased.
New car batteries will tend to last between three and five years but their lifespan can be increased with regular maintenance and good driving habits.
