UK Car Buying Guide for Canadians

UK Car buying guide for Canadians

Canadians in London are pleased to be partnered with Fleet UK offering supply and finance for Cars Vans & SUV's for Canadians coming to the UK

Ben Murphy - Senior Sales Executive

ben.murphy@fleetuk.com 02392 245577

Buying and financing cars in the UK

Can I Get Car Finance If I’m New to the UK?

If you’ve just moved to the UK, you may not have an established credit score here yet, which can make it difficult to secure financing through traditional lenders. That’s why Fleet UK works with a network of specialist lenders who understand the challenges new residents face when trying to get approved for credit.

Visa Requirements for Car Finance in the UK

If you’re not a permanent UK resident, you must have at least 2 years remaining on your work visa at the time of application. If you need guidance, Ben at Fleet UK is available to assist—contact him on 02392 245577 or via email at ben.murphy@fleetuk.com.

Tips for Buying a Used Car in the UK

Buying a used car can be a smart and cost-effective choice, but it’s essential to approach it wisely. Here's a guide to help you make the best decision, with a focus on avoiding London-based vehicles and understanding ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) considerations.

1. Avoid Buying Cars Based in London

Why Avoid London Cars?
Vehicles in London are often subjected to heavy stop-start traffic, short trips, and frequent idling, which can lead to increased wear and tear on components like brakes, clutches, and engines.
Search in Nearby Counties or Rural Areas
Look for cars located in areas outside London, such as Hertfordshire, Kent, Essex, or even further afield. Cars from rural or suburban areas are likely to have been driven on longer journeys at consistent speeds, which are gentler on the engine.

2. Understand ULEZ Rules

What is ULEZ?
The Ultra Low Emission Zone covers much of Greater London and requires vehicles to meet strict emissions standards. If a car doesn’t meet these standards, drivers must pay a daily charge to enter the zone.

ULEZ Compliance is Key
- Petrol cars: Must meet Euro 4 standards (generally cars registered after January 2006).
- Diesel cars: Must meet Euro 6 standards (typically registered after September 2015).
- If you plan to drive into London occasionally or think ULEZ may expand, ensure the car is compliant to avoid daily charges of £12.50.

ULEZ Checker
Use the official ULEZ vehicle checker (TFL ULEZ Checker) before making a purchase.

3. Inspect the Vehicle’s History

MOT History
Check the car’s MOT history online (Check MOT) to see any past advisories or failures. Consistent advisories for wear-and-tear items (e.g., brakes, tyres) can indicate poor maintenance.
Service Records
Ensure the car has a complete and verifiable service history. Look for evidence of regular maintenance, such as oil changes and timing belt replacements.

4. Inspect Mileage and Condition

Mileage
- Opt for a car with moderate mileage (around 10,000–12,000 miles per year is average).
- Low mileage can be a red flag if the car has been used primarily for short trips in urban settings, which cause more engine wear.

Check for City Wear
Look for signs of heavy city driving, such as:
- Worn clutches (difficulty engaging gears).
- Excessive brake wear or uneven tyre wear.
- Damaged suspension due to potholes.

5. Conduct a Pre-Purchase Inspection

Inspect for Rust and Bodywork Damage
Pay close attention to the undercarriage, wheel arches, and sills for rust, especially in older cars.
Test Drive Thoroughly
Drive on different types of roads (urban, suburban, and motorway) to test the car’s handling, brakes, clutch, and acceleration.
Hire a Mechanic
For added peace of mind, consider hiring a mechanic to perform a pre-purchase inspection, especially for private sales.

6. Beware of Scams and Dodgy Sellers

Check Vehicle History (HPI Check)
Use an HPI check to ensure the car isn’t stolen, written off, or still under finance.
Avoid Unverified Sellers
Be cautious when buying from private sellers without a solid reputation. Dealerships often provide a warranty or return policy, which can be helpful.

7. Negotiate the Price

Use the car’s service and MOT history to negotiate. If the car needs upcoming maintenance (e.g., a timing belt replacement), use this as leverage to reduce the price.

8. Opt for Fuel Efficiency and Reliability

Consider models known for reliability and good fuel economy, such as Toyota, Honda, or Hyundai. Diesel cars may be more fuel-efficient, but ensure they meet ULEZ standards.
Hybrid or electric cars are a great option if you plan to drive in urban areas frequently, as they are exempt from ULEZ charges and congestion fees.

9. Double-Check Tax and Insurance Costs

Vehicle Excise Duty (Road Tax): Check the annual tax costs, which vary based on emissions.
Insurance: Obtain a quote before purchasing to ensure it fits your budget.

10. Finalize the Paperwork

Logbook (V5C): Ensure the seller provides a valid V5C registration document.
Receipts and Warranty: Request receipts for any major repairs and check if the car is still under warranty.

Guide to Buying a Car in the UK as a Canadian Expat with Fleet UK

Buying a car in the UK can be a complex process, especially if you’re new to the country. From choosing the right vehicle to understanding financing options and securing insurance, there are several important steps to take. This guide walks you through the entire process while highlighting how our trusted partners—Fleet UK for car supply and finance, —can help make your experience smooth and stress-free.

Step 1: Choosing Your Car

✅ New vs. Used: Decide whether you want a brand-new vehicle or a reliable used car. Fleet UK offers a range of vehicles to suit your needs.
✅ Vehicle History Check: If buying used, ensure the car has a full-service history, no outstanding finance, and a valid MOT certificate (required for cars over three years old).
✅ Road Tax & Compliance: All vehicles in the UK must be road-taxed and ULEZ-compliant in some cities like London.

💡 With Fleet UK, you get access to a wide range of vehicles at competitive prices, ensuring a seamless purchase process.

Step 2: Financing Your Car

If you're looking to finance your car, you’ll need to explore different options:

🚗 Personal Contract Purchase (PCP): Lower monthly payments with the option to buy at the end of the term.
🚙 Hire Purchase (HP): Higher monthly payments but outright ownership once paid off.
🔄 Leasing: Ideal if you want to drive a new car every few years without the commitment of ownership.

💡 Fleet UK can assist you in securing the best financing options tailored to expats, ensuring smooth approval and flexible payment plans.