Helping you Buy a car
OK, you're ready to buy a used car but now what?
Here at ugandautotraders.com, we let you take the wheel and search the way you want to search. Maybe, you already know what car you're interested in. Great! Just Search by manufacturer and in a flash you'll have access to thousands of new and used cars to choose from in your area. But what if you don't know what model you want yet? We've got your back there, too. Simply use our Lifestyle search to find a car that will serve your needs. Just answer our simple questions to find a car that fits you like a glove.
Once you've found that perfect car, you'll probably want to view photos, watch videos, look at some reviews, Get a loan for a car you have always wanted. You can get all of that information and more using ugandautotraders.com. Easy! -- Stop searching and start driving!
What do you need to know?
UGANDAUTOTRADERS.COM is now considered UGANDA’s leading car website for buying and selling cars. Our mission is to become a one-stop site for car selling, used car searches and all other motoring related content.
The company continues to be focused on providing consumer-focused motoring services directly through the web.
UGANDAUTOTRADERS.COM is run by a highly dedicated team of professionals with extensive knowledge in the car buying and selling industry. We have established a huge network of motoring websites bringing all their resources under one roof. This enables car buyers to search for a much wider variety of cars and provides car sellers with a phenomenal amount of advertising exposure. We help to reduce the time, stress and money involved in buying and selling new and used cars!
57% of people now search and sell cars online
UGANDAUTOTRADERS.COM allows you to search from over a 90,000 cars selling from one place helping you find the right car at the best possible price. You no longer have to search several websites individually, instead we do it all for you! Our search results display thousands of used cars for sale in an easy to understand format. You can sort the results in whichever way you want (eg local area, price, mileage, year, etc). You can even compare vehicles side by side helping to make your choice even easier! To start searching for your next car simply click on used or new or bond from the side menu.
The good news is that you can buy your car locally from the people you know, by selecting your local township or district.
The figures don't lie
If you still don't believe in the enormous success of our service then try us now and you will find out for yourself:
What type of buyers use our service?
The type of people that use our service vary quite considerably, don't necessarily have to be "desperate" or in a "desperate" position to use our service. It works for everyone.
What is the Buyers’ checklist?
Download this check list and take it with you when viewing a car.
- Before viewing
Have you got a traceable telephone number for the seller?
Make sure you have the correct funds in your account
Meet in daylight hours at the seller’s work place or home address if possible
Meet during bank opening hours
Ask a friend to accompany you (optional)
Ask to see the seller's ID
Get a valuation. If a car is under priced there may be a reason for this. You can get free valuations by emailing us on sales@ugandautotraders.com.
Avoid bringing large sums of cash when meeting a seller
Be aware of vehicle scams –visit scams and advice
- Check the car’s exterior
Walk around the car – it should be in a driveable state
Check under the car for crash damage
Let the seller show you the car, but don't let them distract you from carrying out your own checks
Start the car with a cold engine – watch out for delays, starting problems and excessive smoke
Check the exhaust for excessive noise
Look out for blue smoke, which may indicate an internal oil leak
Once the engine has been running for a while, the temperature gauge should sit around the halfway mark
Both front wheels should be directly in front of the rear
Wheels should sit neatly in the wheel arches, equally on both sides
Look out for any sign of rust – especially around wheel arches
Watch for uneven wear on tyres – they should have at least 1.6mm tread depth (3mm is recommended)
The gaps between panels should be equal. Run your finger along each to feel if the gap is bigger at one end than the other
Look carefully at each panel for ripples or overspray
Panels should be flat, and free from signs of welding or patching up
The number plate should meet UK standards with the correct lettering
Check for flecks of paint on the windows. This is a sign the vehicle has been re-sprayed
- Under the bonnet
Watch for signs of oil leaks, particularly under and around the top of the engine
Check the oil level is correct – remove the dipstick, wipe with a cloth and replace for a couple of seconds. It should rest between the min and max marks
Look around the oil filler cap for a white mayonnaise-like substance – this could indicate a damaged head gasket
Check the water and windscreen washer levels
- Interior
Check the screws on the VIN plate haven’t been tampered with
Look around the cabin – a 50,000 mile car shouldn't have a worn steering wheel, gear knob or pedal covers
Check all seatbelts work
If the car has a mechanical milometer check the barrels are aligned – if not, it could point to clocking
Dashboard and steering column panels should be bolted on correctly
Check all switches work – including heaters and air-con
Make sure seats move about properly
- During the test drive
Check the exhaust for excessive noise before driving
Turn the steering wheel from one lock to the other before driving – there should be no screeching, banging or knocking
Test the handbrake by pulling it on and trying to drive off gently
Use all the gears, including reverse
Drive on as many different kinds of roads and surfaces as possible
The clutch pedal should 'bite' around the middle of the pedal’s travel
Brake sharply – the car shouldn’t pull to one side
Listen out for unusual noises
- Documentation
Check the V5C document (or 'logbook') has the correct number plate, make, model, engine number and VIN
Check the log book document includes a serial number
Hold the log book up to the light. If it is printed on normal paper could be a fraudulent photocopy or computer printout
Check the log book is fully complete with a serial number and printed on hard paper with laser colours.
Make sure the seller has got transfer forms which you can fill in to change ownership on the log book
Keep the log book with the transfer forms together.
Check the car has been serviced at the correct intervals specified by the manufacturer – ask the owner if they have kept servicing receipts
Try and hand over cash in a bank, so the seller can pay it in straight away
Ask the seller to write two receipts stating the date, amount paid, make, model and registration number, along with the names, addresses and signatures of both parties
If you’re unsure about anything, get an independent mechanical inspection carried out by an expert. Alternatively contact ugandautotraders.com for more information
Are you buying the car for the right price?
Or simply how can I find the right selling price?
It's important that you know the right selling price for your car you want to buy.
The very first tool you should use to your advantage is the search facility; you should use this to do a little research on the same
make and model of your car that you are buying. By searching for a car of the same age as that you want to buy will give you
great ideas as of how much you should pay for the car, of course you will have to take into account whether or not the car is in
better condition than the one you are researching, but at least it will give you some indication.
Haggling
A serious buyers will inevitably know how to haggle about the price; it's all part of buying a car, without being unreasonable.
Set a price beforehand and keep it in your head during negotiations
If you are unsure of the price then don't worry.
Not only are we confident of helping you buying a car but we can also help you find the market valuation for the car.
We have teamed up with independent car checkers to enable our users to get the correct valuation for almost any car.
Not only does this give you great peace of mind but it is completely free of charge.
To get a valuation for your cars now simply call +256 776 400 400 or email-sales@ugandautotraders.com
What scams to be aware of?
Buying or selling a vehicle today is probably the most expensive commitment you could make second to a house purchase. Added to this it is unlikely that you will have the security of legal advice, solicitors, agents etc. to protect the transaction and moreover, your money. The process of buying or selling a vehicle is usually straightforward but both buyers and sellers can leave themselves open to becoming the victim of fraud or other crimes. Be careful not to let the excitement of buying or selling a vehicle compromise your safety or your money. And remember, if it looks too good to be true, it usually is.
The advice below is to help you avoid being a victim of crime
BUYING A USED VEHICLE
DO YOUR RESEARCH?
Find out about the model of car that you want to buy, check that the car you are looking at is of the correct specification. When buying a second-hand vehicle you should check to make sure that the vehicle you are buying is the property of the seller and has not been stolen. A history check will also identify whether the car has been reported as an insurance write-off, has any outstanding finance on it or mileage inconsistencies. Do your own history check. This will protect you and will give you current information about the vehicle. Do not accept a history check from the vendor; it may be false or at best out of date.
If you think the car is stolen, report this to your local police. However, the Police cannot confirm ownership details – they can only confirm the status of the genuine vehicle with the registration number given.
CONTACT DETAILS
When buying privately it’s wise to do your research on the seller as well as the vehicle. Get a landline telephone number but you should be aware that it could be for a public telephone box or might transfer to another phone. Always meet a private seller at their home address or place of work, look for signs that they reside there or work there for example if some resides there it wouldn’t be a problem to let you in and do the negotiations from there, same applies to place of work . If you feel unhappy with the other party trust your instincts and walk away. Do not be tempted by that elusive bargain.
VEHICLE NUMBERS & MARKS
Check that the vehicle identification numbers (VIN) matches that on the documents(log-book), and has not been tampered with. The VIN number is in at least three places on a vehicle. The ‘visible’ VIN plate is under the windscreen, on the nearside (left) of the car, under where the tax disc should be. The ‘VIN plate/sticker’ will normally be somewhere under the bonnet. There will be a number stamped in the main body that is located differently for each type of vehicle. Be very wary if there are any signs that etching or numbers have been tampered with or removed. Make sure that the vehicle registration document (log-book) has not been tampered with and that the document is watermarked. Compare the document with another log-book or look at the log-book for your own vehicle. See the URA website for more information (www.ugrevenue.com).
DOCUMENTS
Do not buy if the seller cannot produce the vehicle registration document and other documentation (e.g. for a new vehicle, the purchasing correspondence). Confirm the service history with the garages shown, if possible.
INSPECTION
Consider having the vehicle professionally examined before you buy, either through a motoring association, private company or garage. They will examine the vehicle and be able to give you more safety with your transaction.
PAYING
There are different ways you can pay for a vehicle – cash, cheque, banker’s draft or bank transfer. An immediate bank transfer can be made using the CHAPS system for a nominal fee, depending on the Bank. Consider meeting the buyer at your bank and completing the transaction there. CHAPS payments are irrevocable. Choose the method that works for you but be aware of the potential issues. It can be dangerous carrying a large amount of cash when you’re going to meet a stranger so use your common sense and always have someone with you. Cheques and banker’s drafts can be fraudulent or counterfeit so your seller may not be prepared to accept these. NEVER pay using a money transfer company such as Western Union or Money gram – these exist for transferring money between people who know each other. Be careful when using ESCROW or Shipping web sites as many are bogus and set up by fraudsters. If you do use ESCROW, make sure it’s verified.
Internet
The Internet can be a source of bargains and is increasingly popular and useful. However it is also used by criminals to sell vehicles that are stolen or do not exist, often using pictures and details of genuine vehicles. Most sites do provide safeguards for buyers and sellers. Understand the rules of the site and how it works. If you’ve won an auction make the above checks before paying for your vehicle.
SELLING A VEHICLE
ADVERTISING
Decide where best to advertise your vehicle, in your local newspaper, in a motoring magazine or nationally via the Internet. Understand the rules of the publication or Internet site.
PERSONAL DETAILS
You should be prepared to provide several different ways that people can get in contact with you – email address mobile telephone number or landline.
REPLIES TO ADVERTS
When selling your vehicle, be aware that thieves can pose as potential buyers. They may ask up front for details of the vehicle or for your personal details and could use this information to create their own fake ‘cloned’ ad. If they’re a genuine buyer, they will come and see the vehicle.
DEALING WITH BUYERS OVERSEAS
Beware of emails from abroad, offering to buy your vehicle without seeing it and offering to make over-payments. Also beware of bogus shipping or ESCROW companies recommended by the buyer.
INSPECTING DOCUMENTS
Let the buyer inspect the documents but do not let them make copies or take photos of them. Be aware that mobile phones often contain a camera!
TEST DRIVES
Always check that the person has a valid driving license and insurance to drive your vehicle. Never let the buyer go on a test drive alone. They may not come back. Don’t leave the buyer alone with your keys, and never get out of the vehicle to allow a test drive leaving the keys in the ignition.
PAYMENT
There are different ways people can pay for a vehicle – cash, cheque, banker’s draft or bank transfer. An immediate bank transfer to you can be made using the CHAPS system for a nominal fee, CHAPS payments are irrevocable. Consider meeting the buyer at their bank and completing the transaction there. Choose the method that works best for you but be aware of the potential issues. Cash could be counterfeit so double check it. If accepting cash, consider meeting the buyer at your bank and paying the money straight in to your account. Cheques and banker’s drafts can be fraudulent or counterfeit and you may not find this out until after your car has gone, even if your bank has told you that the funds have cleared. Do not accept an overpayment especially where you then have to refund the difference or make a payment via a money transfer company such as Western Union or Money gram. Be careful when using ESCROW or shipping services as many are bogus and set up by fraudsters. If you do use ESCROW, make sure it’s verified.
Further Information
FRAUD ALERT
For advice on criminal cash back and other frauds that may be attempted against vehicle sellers and buyers, and how to report spam emails go to.www.upf.go.ug
OTHER USEFUL WEB SITES:
How to drive green?
Ugandautotraders is fully committed to providing unparallel standards and quality of service to its clients.
We believe that this can and must be done in a way which protects and enhances the environment.
It is our business policy that we aim at avoiding losses and maximizing benefits. It follows that we must minimize the losses and effects arising from our business and promote a positive attitude to the conservation and enhancement of all aspects of our environment. Environmental factors will be taken into consideration in our business planning and decision making.
We work closely with other organizations to identify opportunities within our own and client organizations to reduce carbon footprints, energy consumption and environmental impacts.
If you don't want to change your current car, there are still ways you can drive greener.
Lose some weight
Don't drive around with unnecessary weight in your car - the engine will have to work harder and use more fuel. Empty your car of anything that you don't need to carry around all the time.
Remove roof boxes and roof racks when you’re not using them - the extra aerodynamic drag they cause will also raise your fuel consumption. The same goes for open windows and sunroofs, and get any loose items of external trim fixed.
Look after your car
Stick to the manufacturer's service schedule, and get work carried out by a competent garage. Under-inflated tyres can increase your fuel consumption, so check them weekly. Also, keep an eye on your fuel consumption and investigate sudden changes.
Switch it off
Modern engines don’t need to be warmed up before you start driving, so get in and drive off straightaway.
If you get stuck in traffic, switch the engine off. Air-conditioning, heated seats and other electric components also consume energy, so switch off whatever you don't need.
Anticipation
By keeping an eye on the road ahead, you can drive greener as well as safer. Always try to keep the car moving, and allow the engine to slow the car rather than by using the brakes - this gives more time for the cars in front to move off. Avoid having to brake suddenly and don't race between sets of traffic lights or junctions. Finally, use gravity on slopes to start the car rolling, rather than the accelerator.
Lower your speed
Sticking to the speed limit will save fuel, so why not try slowing down a bit more? You'll be less stressed and have a calmer journey. Cruise control can help you maintain a steady speed. Use the highest gear possible without letting the engine labour, and try changing straight from second to fourth gear, or third to fifth – this saves time, fuel and clutch wear and tear.
Leave the car at home
A car's engine is at its most inefficient when cold, so consider not using it for very short trips. If it's a nice day, walk or ride a bike instead. Consider using public transport for other trips, too.
Plan your journey
If you don’t need to travel during rush hour, avoid the congested times. Plan a route that misses busy areas or road works, and try to stick to roads that allow you to drive at a steady speed rather than having to stop and start. Consider car sharing with friends or colleagues.
Change your driving style
Learn to press the accelerator lightly and smoothly - no more heavy, jerky movements. Don't over-rev the engine; keep the revs under 3000rpm and cruise along.
Give yourself more time for journeys so you don’t have to rush, and stay relaxed for a smoother trip.
Drive safe
'Driving safely and economically go almost hand in hand. Make sure you look well ahead and read what's coming so you don't end up over-braking and then accelerating hard again.'
Get to the highest gear as soon as possible
'In city driving it's tempting to keep the car in a lower gear, but just by accelerating gently and smoothly and changing to the highest gear as fast as possible we can all make major savings.
'Don't bog the engine down by changing too early - that's counterproductive. But change at less than 2000 revs and keep going all the way to top gear and you'll get much better fuel economy.'
Don't go too fast
'It sounds obvious, but perhaps not for the reason you think. Wind resistance increases dramatically as you go faster, we tend to go about 5-10mph less than the speed limit and it saves a massive amount of fuel. And we get there nice and relaxed and just as fast, really!
'If you have a long journey then cruise control can be a godsend, too. Personally we don't use it, but then it does have a real place in regulating the speed and preventing the driver losing concentration and slipping 10mph before accelerating again.'
Close the window
'Above about 50mph then you need to close the window, because that's when the aerodynamics start to kick in. An open window is a disaster for fuel economy and can cost as much as a third more fuel.
If you need cooling, use air conditioning, but sparingly! That can take a third more fuel too, so keep it on low.'
Don't idle
A car sat for two minutes with the engine turning uses enough fuel to drive one mile. As a rule of thumb if you're parked for 10 seconds or more you shouldn't idle the car, but as a global average people are sat idling for 5-10 minutes.
Plan your route carefully
Avoid traffic jams, where necessary
Don't drive angry
A stressed driver is very rarely an efficient driver, so if the kids are screaming, you've had a row with your partner or you're just annoyed, then don't drive. Take 10 minutes, go for a walk, and settle the kids down, do whatever you have to do to settle yourself down before you get in the car.
Don't coast
'My grandfather used to talk about driving to the top of the mountain, switching off and coasting down. But if you do that in a modern car you'll lose the steering and it's dangerous.
'The modern equivalent is to leave the car in neutral wherever possible and coast, but actually we've found this doesn't work. In a modern car it's better to select the appropriate gear, keeping around 2000 revs, so the engine doesn't get stressed. Use the gearbox and don't just leave it in neutral because this will actually use more fuel.'
Now you know how to save the planet and making some savings on fuel, you can view some bargain cars as well now. Click here