Five Things You Think Matter When Buying a Car...But Don’t

07 Jul 2025

Five Things You Think Matter When Buying a Car...But Don’t
Buying a car is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make outside of choosing where to live or what to watch on Netflix (kidding… sort of). But when it comes to picking your next set of wheels, there’s a lot of advice out there and not all of it holds up.

Here are five things people think matter when buying a car… but actually don’t.

1. Mileage is Everything
Sure, lower mileage usually means less wear and tear — but it’s not the full story. A well-maintained car with 80,000 motorway miles might be in better condition than a neglected one with 30,000 city miles and a dodgy service history.

What to focus on instead: Service records, condition, and how the car’s been driven and cared for.

2. You Have to Own the Car Outright
Ownership can be great, but for many people, it’s not the smartest financial move. Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) or Hire Purchase (HP) lets you spread the cost and potentially drive a newer, more reliable car without draining your savings.

What to focus on instead: Monthly affordability, flexibility, and long-term value.

3. Big Cars Are Always Safer
Modern small and mid-size cars come packed with advanced safety tech, lane assist, auto braking, parking sensors, and more. Size alone doesn’t guarantee protection (or parking sanity).

What to focus on instead: Euro NCAP ratings and the car’s safety features, not just bulk.

4. Red Cars Are More Expensive to Insure
This one’s been around forever, but it’s a myth. Insurers don’t care what colour your car is (as long as it’s not covered in racing stripes and nitrous oxide). What they do care about? Your driving record, car make/model, engine size, and where you live.

What to focus on instead: Insurance group rating and comparison quotes, not colour theory.

5. You Shouldn’t Buy a Car in the Rain
Heard this one? The theory goes: wet weather hides scratches and dents. While that can be true, most used car purchases today are either online or through finance meaning you’ve got time to inspect, return, or resolve issues if the car isn’t up to scratch.

What to focus on instead: Buying from reputable sources, reading the fine print, and checking the vehicle history.

The Bottom Line?
Car buying doesn't have to be stressful and it certainly doesn’t have to be based on outdated advice from your mate’s cousin’s barber.

At Autodosh, we help people find car finance options that suit their real needs, not myths. If you’re thinking of changing your car, why not see what your budget could get you?

Click here to start your new car journey today

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer or any other company. This article has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these organisations. NB: The information on this page does not constitute financial advice, please do your own research to ensure that the product / service is right for your individual circumstances.