Look after the pennies with economical used cars

Every car has its place. There are times when a bit of speed and panache are the flavour of the day. If you’re in a position to be shopping around for such a car then lucky you; we hope you find the car of your dreams. However, we are aware the countries in a bit of a mess at the moment, economically speaking anyway, so we feel like you might be better served with an article about the most economical used cars on offer here at Ron Skinner & Sons, in our opinion anyway.

First off, the Citroen C1 1.0

The Citroen C1 is an excellent all-round car. Unlike some economical used cars which are first and foremost cheap to run, often at the cost of drivability, the C1 is a fantastic little car to drive. We see it as the perfect car for an excursion around town. With just a one litre engine there is not all that much power available for long distance motorway journeys, although it is more than capable of dealing with them. We think it really comes into its own on the shorter trips, where it really is a lot of fun to drive.

The C1 is one of the best styled used cars internally and externally, with simplicity and functionality being the watch words. For such a small car it is surprising how easily it can comfortably accommodate four adults; and easily achieving 61.4mpg, this little gem is nothing if not economical.

Toyota Yaris

Of all the used cars on offer here at Ron Skinner, if you’re looking for a high quality, economical hatchback, you can’t go far wrong with the Toyota Yaris. The Yaris may cost slightly more than some of its rivals but it is well worth it when you bring the famed Toyota reliability into the equation. The Yaris’ reliability is almost guaranteed, even on some of the higher mileage used cars you might find, so it is very unlikely to let you down. And achieving 52.3mpg ensures it isn’t too thirsty either.

Citroen C5

Traditionally economical used cars are those that are small, but so-called super minis are not an option or everyone. If you’re looking for a spacious, family vehicle then of all the used cars on offer, the Citroen C5 is an excellent choice. The C5 has plenty of room to seat five adults and there is still room for stretching. There is a great big boot too; we are not suggesting a sixth adult could be hauled into the boot, but if your passengers are replete with luggage, then you can rest assured there’ll be plenty of room. The 1.6 HDi can muster a breathtaking 52.3mpg, making the Citroen C5 an option certainly worth your consideration.

If you’re in the market for economical used cars then browse our huge range of used cars online. Here at Ron Skinner & Sons we currently have the C1, C5 and Yaris sitting proudly on our forecourt, all available at a great price. Pay us a visit and have a look for yourself.  

September sees a rise in the price of used cars

Once again there has been a rise in the average cost of used cars, with September values rising to £6,912. The rise in price of used cars has been consistent since April, along with an increase in the value of part exchange deals.

Industry insiders believe the increase in the price of used cars is predominantly due to sales of new cars slowly dropping off. It is thought current economic conditions are playing a part in the decreasing sales of new cars, as more people are looking for a bargain which they are more likely to find in the used cars market.

The figure for September marks a rise in prices of 5.4 per cent with the value of dealer part exchanges witnessing an increase of 3.5 per cent, up to £2,289.

Small and medium sized used cars fared particularly well. It is thought people are looking to downsize to not only benefit from cheaper used cars in the first instance, but also to make savings on running costs, fuel and tax further down the line.

Part exchanges on medium sized family used cars have fared well, averaging £2,264. Part exchanges on small hatchbacks have also seen a significant rise, up 3.4 per cent to £1,872.

Another development identified by the research shows that the age of used cars sold across the UK is increasing along with the price. The average age of used cars on UK roads has risen to 7.25 years, which represents a 14 year high. It is believed this trend is one which is likely to continue as cars are better made than ever before. 

Here at Ron Skinner & Sons our prices do not reflect a September price rise. The used cars we sell represent fantastic value for money, and with such a wide choice available you are sure to find just the make, model, age and spec of used car you are looking for. Browse online and visit our showroom for a test drive. 

There's no better time to buy used cars

Everything’s really expensive when it first comes out. The scramble to be the first to own a new product ensures manufacturers can charge a premium close to release date. I’m transported back many years to my youth and the scrimping and saving which took place over a period of months so I could be the proud owner of a Nintendo Gameboy. Well this has happened with green cars. As the technology is improved it becomes cheaper to develop, and that green cars have been out a while, they are also starting to hit the used cars market. So if you’re looking for economy, now could be the time to find a great deal on green used cars.

The benefits of green used cars are multiple. Not only will you rest easy at night knowing you are easing your burden on the planet, you will also make tremendous savings on the cost of fuel and taxes. However, not many of us will be happy to completely sacrifice drivability, and now, with the quality of green used cars constantly on the up, you simply don’t have to.

The difficulty when choosing green used cars is just which one to buy. They all give associated CO2 figures, but carbon dioxide is far from the only harmful gas cars produce. So here’s a bit of a helping hand.

• Emissions and consumption – carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas which is causing the planet to slowly heat up. It originates from a wide number of sources, with cars a major contributor. Based purely on levels of CO2, the Toyota Prius is the best performer producing 87g/km.

• Nitrous oxides – are greenhouse gases which are harmful to both the environment and humans as they aggravate conditions such as asthma. Of all green used cars, the Kia Picanto is the big winner producing just 0.0006.

• Particulates – these are a big concern in diesel vehicles as they can cause cancer and heart disease when inhaled. The Seat Alhambra is impeccable in this department, producing 0.0000g/km. 

• MPG – all used cars have an associated miles per gallon rate. Average or combined MPG is based on a mix of urban and rural driving. The leader in this category, the economical Smart Fortwo, which travels 85.6 miles on every gallon of fuel.

So if you’re looking to do your bit for the environment then any of the above green used cars will help to reduce your impact. Take a trip to Ron Skinner where we regularly have green used cars in stock at a fantastic price.

Hyundai’s rapid development into one of the leading players in the used cars market continues forth with the announcement that the new model i30 is to hit the showrooms next spring. The price of Hyundai used cars is one of their major selling points, and with a new i30 due soon, it is anticipated the cost of existing used i30s will drop even further.

Hyundai are famed for their rapid turnaround of new models and this shows no sign of changing with the latest i30 coming to market just five years after the outgoing model was introduced.

The current i30 is competition for the Volkswagen Golf and provides an extremely attractive alternative given the vastly reduced price. The new model i30 replaces the outgoing model which was introduced back in 2007 has been doing extremely well in the used cars market ever since. This regeneration of models sets a benchmark amongst Hyundai’s competitors who expect each reincarnation of their cars to last at least seven years.

Hyundai Europe vice-president Allan Rushford explains: “I see no reason why our rate of change should slow. As the appetite for Hyundais in Korea is so large, the appetite for change on every model we produce is great; we actually have to take our foot off the throttle a little for the European market. With that in mind I think it’s very unlikely our current rate of regeneration will slow.”

In comparison with the old i30, which was such a hit with buyers of used cars, the new model receives a longer wheelbase which has been pushed closer to either end of the car to improve the amount of interior space as well as the ride quality. It is hoped the combination of such features along with improved fuel economy will help to cement the Hyundai’s position as one of the top sellers of both new and used cars.

If you’re in the market for used cars and have your eye on a Hyundia i30 then Ron Skinner & Sons currently have a wide range of engine and specs available all at a fantastic price. Browse our website or visit Ron Skinner & Sons for the best deals on used cars.

The serial award winner, the Hyundia i10, has had its name up in lights once again after being named ‘Best City Car’ by CarBuyer. As if Hyundia’s best seller wasn’t already sweeping the boards with its economy and practicality, the i10 has recently received a refresh both inside and out, complimented by new ultra-modern engines, improved fuel economy, lower emissions and stronger performance. With this award the latest in a long line, if you are looking for used cars in South Wales then the Hyundai i10 is certainly worth careful consideration.

CarBuyer, the expert car reviewer, created a judging panel that focused on the performance, safety, running costs, mpg, owner satisfaction and reliability of the cars on the shortlist. The Hyundai i10 was without compare in the ‘Best City Car’ category as Dan Strong, editor of Car Buyer explains:

“A recent redesign means the i10 now looks better than ever. It has always been affordable and economical to run, fun to drive and extremely practical, but now it can add style as one of the many strings to its bow. If there is a better city car on the market we certainly haven’t come across it.”

Of all the used cars in South Wales, what makes the i10 so desirable is the exceptional value for money it offers. As if the current package wasn’t enough, Hyundai have gone one step further with the new model. The addition of a revised warranty which provides unlimited mileage cover, free car health checks and roadside assistance for five years ensures the i10 leaves the competition trailing in its wake.

Another factor which helped the i10 cruise to the title of ‘Best City Car’ was the deceptively large interior. The compact dimensions of the Hyundai leave many expecting a car unable to cope with the requirements of the modern family, but such is the adaptability of the interior a growing family can be transported comfortably and safely. The value for money, drivability and quality offered by the i10 ensures few used cars in South Wales which such a versatile option. 

If you’re looking for used cars in South Wales then Ron Skinner & Sons is a fantastic place to start. Whether you browse our range online or pay us a visit at our showroom, our extensive range of Hyundai i10s is sure to tantalise any budget. Unbeatable prices on used cars in South Wales!

A recent audit carried out by a national vehicle MOT station and has brought to light some shocking findings which highlight the state of the tyres used by many used cars travelling on Britain’s roads. With the consequences of such an oversight severe, many drivers are ignorant to the fact that they risk losing their licence if caught.

Drivers who neglect to replace the balding tyres on used cars are not only exposing themselves to an increased risk of an accident, but also endangering the lives of innocent road users. The loss of grip and increased stopping distances associated with illegal tyres are both major causes of accidents.  

The figures revealed by the audit show a significant rise from those in 2009 when the last audit was completed. In this time the number of used cars driving on illegal tyres has doubled.

The penalties if caught with illegal tyres are justifiably severe:

• Any tyre with tread depth less than 1.6mm can result in three penalty points and a fine;

• Just one illegal tyre could accrue a maximum of £2,500 in fines;

• Drivers with three or four illegal tyres could land themselves a maximum £10,000 fine and 12 penalty points.

It is thought the current economic climate could be partly responsible for drivers allowing the tyres on used cars to run below the legal tread depth as there simply isn’t the money for replacements. The legal tread depth limit for tyres is 1.6mm but ideally tyres should be changed when the tread depth reaches 3mm, as tyre performance falls significantly below this point.

To ensure the tyres on used cars are performing safely their pressure should be checked every month and before a long journey. Measuring tread depth and visually inspecting the tyres for any cuts and bulges is another way to check they are roadworthy.

Of course when buying used cars from Ron Skinner & Sons you will not have any of these concerns. We ensure the condition of every car we sell is as good as new, leaving you to focus on the driving.

Here’s a bit of a tip for the technologically aware. In recent years, with the development of social network sites like Facebook and Twitter, the options for those of you looking to sell your used cars have grown considerably. No longer do you have to settle for a part exchange deal you’re not entirely satisfied with. Gone are the days when paid adverts in the local paper or magazine were your only way of appealing to individuals looking to buy used cars.

Love it or loathe it, social media is here to stay. So why not make it work for you?

Your list of friends and followers on Twitter and Facebook offers a wide circle of online contacts. However, your personal list of contacts is not likely to be the only people your advert reaches, as your friends will likely post your adverts to any contacts they may have who they think may be interested. Essentially the number of people who will see your advert is limitless!

When selling used cars via the medium of social media, trust plays an integral part. Making your personal profile and advert as informative and transparent as possible will help to achieve this. Pictures are essential. No one is likely to be interested in buying used cars without clear photographs of the car inside and out. Also information such as mobile number and email address will add authenticity to your advert.

Another factor worth remembering is not to bombard people repeatedly. Invites, messages, tweets and posts all coming thick and fast will only deter potential buyers. An 80/20 rule is worth following and should ensure you don’t aggravate any of your friends. 

The final point to remember: tender to the needs of the buyer. Regardless of the media used to advertise, buyers are still going to be looking for the best possible deal. So talk to them about the used car’s best features in an informative and factual way. Also, if someone makes you an offer, make sure you negotiate reasonably. Offer them a deal and secure the sale.

Here at Ron Skinner we offer some fantastic part exchange deals on used cars, so it is well worth paying us a visit before you decide to sell used cars online. For further information call our friendly team on 01495 713400.  

Whatever next; now a used cars seller is advising what you should and shouldn’t say when out on the used car forecourts. But here at Ron Skinner we’re not like some of the competition. Instead of trying to trip you up, we go all out to offer the best priced possible. So when you’re out shopping for used cars, how do you go about levelling the playing field? And what should you never say?

I really really like this one. I want it... now!

When you’re out shopping for used cars it’s best to internalise any excitement. A poker face is what you need. Once the salesperson knows you’ve fallen in love with a particular car they will walk all over you in terms of price. 

Offer to pay in cash

Although traditional thinking might tell you to the contrary, paying in cash does not always get you the best deal. Many used car dealerships make a lot of money on their finance options. Essentially a finance option increases the amount you pay for used cars. Very few of us have the money to buy a car outright so this option allows you to pay instalments over a predetermined period of time. The problem with paying in cash is that, without the extra revenue brought in by the finance deal, salespeople are more likely to be stubborn and stick to the price on display. Our advice is to agree the price first, and don’t be scared to haggle; they need you more than you need them. Once the price is agreed you can then discuss payment options. 

Stick to your guns!

If you show any sign of doubt you could leave yourself open to being swayed. The dealer will turn on the charm offensive the instant you start uming and arring, so don’t. Remain confident and go to the forecourt with a partner or friend who can help you along the way and step in while you consider your options.    

So what about this finance deal...?

Do not discuss your monthly payments until after the purchase price is settled. If you start talking instalments early on then you will lose grasp of the total amount you are paying. This always makes the purchase seem more manageable. 

So there we go. If you are looking for a great price on used cars then we hope our tips go some way to helping. Alternatively, to be assured a great price from the off, take a trip to Ron Skinner & Sons and have a look at some of the fantastic deals we offer on quality used cars.

The average price for a used car sold by online retailers is back on the rise, heading towards the January 2011 average of £10,746 for each vehicle sold.

It is thought that some sellers of used cars are attempting to take advantage of the current shortfall in availability of many of the UK’s most popular used cars by increasing their prices.

The most popular used cars are smaller, more economical models such as Fiestas, Astras, Corsas, Golfs and Polos. The price of this particular breed of used cars is currently at the highest level it has been for many months, whilst at the same time prices for traditionally more expensive cars such as the BMW 3 and 5 series have begun to fall.

The used cars which have experienced the highest price rise are the smaller models with mileage between 10,000 and 20,000 miles. The top five price rises in August 2011 are:

•    Vauxhall Astra – 6.5%
•    Volkswagen Golf – 3.9%
•    Volkswagen Polo – 3.4%
•    BMW 1 Series – 3%
•    Audi A3 – 2%

Evidence suggests that rising costs and wage stagnation are decreasing many people’s spending power. Coupled with the high price of fuel this is leading to the demand for smaller used cars increasing, thus driving up the price, whilst the traditionally more expensive used cars are no longer so desirable; consequently prices are falling.

It is thought many dealers of used cars are finding it difficult to source suitable stock – especially low mileage smaller-engine cars - as many motorists look to downsize.  

Clearly dealers of used cars need to ensure they stock the cars customers are finding desirable. However, this is likely to become increasingly difficult as supply tightens and prices continue to rise.

Here at Ron Skinner & Sons we retain a large stock of small, low mileage used cars in fantastic condition. Browse our sales pages or visit our showroom to see just how much we have to offer.

The key to a good comparison is to judge like for like. We decided it would be a good idea to apply the same theory to our best used cars guide. So here it is in all its glory; our guide, by category, to the best used cars at there at the moment.  

Best used family car – the Ford Mondeo

Last year the latest incarnation of the Ford Mondeo knocked its predecessor off the top spot and there are plenty of reasons why. The Mondeo is an incredibly cheap second hand option with 2010 models available from as little as £10,000. With availability never a problem, you can have your pick as far as colour and spec are concerned. As with all the used cars we sell here at Ron Skinner, your vehicle comes with a full warranty which will cover you in all manner of eventualities, so you don’t need to worry about being hit with a large bill should anything go wrong. A great family car at an unbelievable price!

Best used city car – the Hyundai i10

With prices starting at £5,599 for a 2010 1.2 Hyundai i10 Hatchback with just 17,000 miles on the clock, is it any wonder the i10 drives away with our award for best used city car?

The i10 is a small car which has made a huge impact on the used cars market. With solid build quality and excellent fuel consumption the Hyundai is perfect for pootling around town.

With the i10 still a fairly new car, most second hand models are on the forecourts of Hyundai main dealers. This is not the case here at Ron Skinner. We have a wide range of i10s so you can have your pick.

Best used small family car – the Ford Focus

The Ford Focus offers excellent handling, great dynamics and with such a wide range of engines and specs available there is something for every taste and budget. With a new model of Focus never far away, second hand prices fall steadily so some real bargains can be had, particularly here at Ron Skinner & Sons.

If you are interested in any of these fantastic used cars then a bargain is assured with a visit to Ron Skinner & Sons. Browse our website www.ronskinnerandsons.co.uk or visit us here at our showroom; we will be delighted to show you around!