Private sale better than trade-in?

HELPDESK:Answering all your motoring queries

From GW: Given the difficulty in securing finance for cars, I was hoping I could secure a 2008 ex-demo car at a good price. Contrary to what was stated in the article by Paddy Comyn last week, I found dealerships to be less than helpful. I was hoping that they could source the finance for me as it is in their interests to sell the car.

I would like to concur with Mr Comyn’s remarks about being surprised at valuations. I am trading in a Mercedes E-Class and I was taken aback by the poor trade-in price offered. I have since agreed to sell the car privately. May I suggest others try this approach as well and not simply accept the trade-in offer on the table?

I’d suggest it’s not necessarily the dealer’s fault if finance cannot be secured. While several car firms now have finance divisions – or recommended finance partners – a salesperson will not necessarily get preferential treatment from the loan provider if the lending criteria are not met.

In terms of valuations, some of the drops in value are a result of the changeover in the tax regime in July 2008 that brought many new car prices down, particularly those in the premium segment. As a result, used car prices have dropped. While it’s always wise to consider a private sale, buyers are not going to offer more for a used car that comes without warranty than one from a dealer that is covered. It’s great that you have found a buyer and it’s a good idea for others to shop around, but at the end of the day the market will dictate whether the car will sell.

From E de H, Holland: I am a regular visitor to Ireland. The last 15 years I have always rented a car or – occasionally – a friend registers me with his insurance as a driver.

But if (as I do visit Ireland at least once or twice a year) I picked up a (good) banger, what are the rules and regulations in Ireland?

You are entitled to own a car here but you need to realise the costs are likely to exceed renting or using someone else’s car.

You need to factor in running costs of a “banger” and these include the NCT, motor tax, along with the cost of storage. These are not inconsequential and when you put them all together, I suspect they will prove more expensive than a rental, unless you are over for a significant period of time. The rules on changing a licence to an Irish one only apply if you are regarded as a resident – staying more than 185 days of the year.

From AH: We are down to two cars to choose from after reading through the archive of reviews on your Motors website and are looking at the new Audi A6 and a BMW 520d. Any final words of advice?

Two good cars that offer value for money now that wasn’t there a few years ago. The choice comes down to favoured driving characteristics. The 520d is a great package but more sports orientated with better handling. The A6 is more refined and more comfortable. If you like an engaging drive then have the 5 Series – plus it’s a better looking car in my opinion – but if it’s trudging through traffic and comfort for longer drives that you’re after, then the A6 delivers.

Send your queries to Motors Helpdesk, The Irish Times, Tara St, Dublin 2, or e-mail motorshelp@irishtimes.com