Buy Private Car

Since buses and trains may not be as frequent and convenient as one would like in many UK cities, many people consider cars a necessity instead of a luxury, as vehicles allow people to go around with more ease. Buying a car is thus one of the first few items on many Hongkongers’ to-do list upon arrival. 

The first consideration is whether to buy a new car or a second-hand one.  One would simply approach the car manufacturer to buy a new car. To purchase a second-hand car, there are 3 main ways:

1. Private transfer

Buyers can search for their preferred models on apps or websites such as Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, Auto Trader, etc. Private transfers are very common in the UK as it is often more affordable than buying a car from a car dealer. It is suitable for buyers who are knowledgeable about vehicles.

2. Buy from a car dealer

This has the benefit of salesperson service, and more car models to choose from in one location, but naturally, prices are slightly higher than private transfer. Buyers can shop around in the used cars lot on site or from different use car websites (such as Auto Trader).  Some car dealers would offer nationwide delivery (additional charges may apply).

3. Purchase an Approved used car from car manufacturers

If budget allows (a minimum of around £7,000), a good alternative is to buy an approved used car from the car manufacturer. Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Toyota, KIA, Peugeot, Ford, Nissan, and many other common car manufacturers are selling selected second-hand vehicles in the UK.

Fuel type

UK vehicles are mainly powered by Patrol (gasoline), Diesel, Electric or Hybrid. Types of fuel used will affect the vehicle road tax.  They will also have an impact on the vehicle's emissions standards , which inturn will determine whether there will be charges when entering some cities. It pays to get to grips with the impact of vehicle fuel type on taxes and charges.

For more information, please refer to the government websites:

For vehicle tax:  https://www.gov.uk/vehicle-tax-rate-tables

For Clean air zone charges:  https://www.gov.uk/guidance/driving-in-a-clean-air-zone

Charges when entering London: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/pay-to-drive-in-london

Things to do after the purchase

1. Register the owner’s name 

The most direct way is to fill in the V5C (vehicle log book) provided by the seller and mail it to DVLA.  Or register online at the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) site.  Online registration requires the 11-digit V5C document’s reference number. 

The new buyer will receive a new V5C form with personal data printed on it. This form is for future personal data changes or vehicle-selling purposes.

2. Pay vehicle tax

Using the 11-digit V5C document’s reference number, you can pay the vehicle tax at  https://www.gov.uk/vehicle-tax or the post office. Vehicles with lower emissions will have lower vehicle tax. 

3. Purchase insurance

Quotes from multiple insurance companies are available in various websites such as  comparethemarket.com or moneysupermarket.com.

The law stipulates that car owners only need to purchase third-party insurance, but in the UK, there are not much cost differences between third-party and comprehensive coverage.

Roadside Assistance is also a good option. With breakdown cover, the insurance company will provide 24-hour Roadside Assistant for free when the vehicle breaks down. 

Insurance premiums will depend on the driver’s age, how long the driver has had the driver’s licence, address, and where the car will be parked, etc. 

Things to pay attention to when buying a car

Maintenance: 

Regular vehicle service should be done at least once a year. Vehicles that are more than three years old must pass the MOT (Ministry of Transport )Test every year before they can run on the road.

Parking: 

A vehicle can be parked where there is no yellow line, or no marking to say that only licensed vehicles/drivers (permit holders) are allowed.

In busy areas, drivers can choose to park in a parking lot or a street with parking meters.  Remember to pay first, and place the receipt on the front of the vehicle. The vehicle needs to be parked within white lines marked for a parking space, otherwise it could result in a fine.

Most shopping malls or supermarkets have free parking. Drivers should pay attention to the parking time limit.

Zonal Charges:

There are some parts in the UK where drivers have to pay when entering certain areas.  For example, driving within the Congestion Charge Zone in London attracts a charge of £15/day.   

Some cities, including London, Birmingham, Portsmouth, have clean air zones, and more are introducing similar measures.  Charges are levied for driving inside these zones, but eco-friendly vehicles are usually exempted.  Drivers are advised to check cities’ official web sites to find out the details before driving in those cities.  

Please note that there will be penalties if charges are not paid on time.  

Traffic violations

It is easy to violate traffic regulations and be penalised while driving on unfamiliar roads. The following are common offences:

 1. Driving on Bus lanes

 2. Speeding

 3. Illegal parking

After receiving a Penalty Charge Notice, normally by mail, there is a 50% discount if the fine is paid within 14 days. Hence, it is important for drivers to keep their addresses up to date