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Should You Consider an Electric Car?
Should you consider an electric car? Have you been thinking about buying one?
Here at Carlover, we understand how choosing the right electric car model is a difficult decision and that’s why we want to simplify it for you by giving you a comprehensive list on choosing the right electric car model, after all electric cars are on the rise.
Carlover know the importance of purchasing a functional and safe electric car and no one knows used cars in Belfast like we do.
Types of Electric Cars
Commercially available electric cars range from EVs to FCEVs, but the question is what do these acronyms stand for?
Electric Vehicles (EV)
Hybrid (HEV)
Hydrogen Vehicle (FCEV)
Mild Electric Vehicle (MHEV)
Battery Electric (BEV)
Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV)
Range-Extended Electric Vehicle (RE-EV)
Buying New vs. Buying Second Hand
Even “cheap” electric vehicles can still be costly and therefore, it is important to think about whether you should buy a car brand new from a dealership or purchase it secondhand.
Previously, it was a lot more difficult to find second hand EVs in the market.
However, with the increase of trading in and up, there is now a nice selection of second EVs available.
These pre-owned vehicles can range from 3 years up to 7 years old. We see a direct correlation with the growth in electric vehicle sales.
However, it is still quite expensive to own an electric vehicle first hand. They are typically a grand dearer to purchase and about £100 more per month (on a personal contract purchase) than the average comparable internal combustion-powered car.
However, it does make up for the cost of running an EV instead of a combustion-powered engine. Electricity is significantly cheaper than filling up on diesel or petrol and thus, it could save your hundreds annually.
Electric Car Model Prices
Top End EVs:
BMW i8 – £100,000
Porsche Taycan – £85,000
Tesla Model X – £82,000
Tesla Model S – £80,000
Audi E-Tron – £70,000
Mercedes EQC – £66,000
Jaguar I-Pace – £60,000
Mid-range EVs
Tesla Model 3 – £40,000
BMW i3 – £36,000
Tesla Model Y – £35,000
Tesla Cybertruck – £35,000
Kia e-Niro – £34,000
Volkswagen e-Golf – £34,000
Hyundai Ioniq – £30,000
Hyundai Kona – £29,000
Peugeot e-208 -£29,000
Entry Level EVs:
Nissan Leaf – £27,000
Vauxhall Corsa-e – £27,000
Volkswagen ID.3 – £26,000
Honda e – £26,000
Renault Zoe – £25,000
Mini Electric – £24,000
Volkswagen e-up – £20,000
Smart EQ – £17,000
It is possible to buy some of these car models second-hand, but as a consumer you mightn’t have the widest range of options.
For example, used Nissan Leafs, which is the UK’s top-selling car, start from around £7,000, while a Renault Zoe can start from £4,500.
Electric Car Incentives
To encourage owners to make the switch, there have been government attempts to push the electric car agenda.
Government grants are used to apply to all EVs. However, from March 2021, only EVs valued under £35,000 can qualify for a £2,500 grant.
Electric Car – £3,000
Electric Bike – £1.500
Small Electric Van – £3,000
Large Electric Van – £6,000
Taxis – £7,500
Trucks – £16,000
Typically, it is the EV dealership that applies and receives the grant and when you consider purchasing a new EV, the prices quoted will have the value of the grant deducted.
There are other electric car incentives that a consumer can take advantage of:
Pay no road tax (unless the car has a listed price more than £40,000)
Has a low company car tax
VAT on domestic electricity is at 5%
EVs are eligible for discount of 100% from the Ultra Low Emissions Zone
EVs pay a reduced parking rate or have no parking charges
There are planned “green licence plate” initiatives that allow them to use bus lanes
As there is an ever-increasing price in petrol, it might be the right time for you to consider choosing an electric car and make the switch.
Car Lover is leading the path to supporting drivers in making the switch by having affordable used cars in Belfast. Find out more about Car Lover deals today!
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Buying a Car: New, Nearly New or Used Car?
Buying a car is an exciting time whether that’s a brand new car, a near to new or a used car in Northern Ireland.
Before deciding on the option that’s best for you, it’s good to know what you’re getting and the prices you can expect to pay.
With used cars being more popular within the UK and Northern Ireland in recent years (due to less cars being manufactured) prices are varying.
Buying a used car is now more expensive than before however you can still find a great deal while finding a car that is in great condition and sometimes even appearing brand new.
Below you’ll find some information on what to expect when you’re buying a brand new, a nearly new or a used car.
Purchasing a Brand new car
The best thing about buying a brand new car is that there is no history that you won’t know about, since you will be the very first user.
This gives you a guarantee that nothing will be wrong and that there are no hidden faults you could be unaware of.
Along with this, new cars come with the newest technology so you’ll have the perks of having things older cars won’t have.
While you can still buy a near-to-new car with fewer owners, there’s a difference in being the very first person to own it.
Things get used up and there’s nothing like getting something straight from the shelf-or in this case a garage.
Buying a nearly new car
The perks of buying near-to-new cars is that they still appear new, but have very small signs of previous owners or just a few thousand kilometres.
You can still secure a great deal by getting a car that’s almost new, or has been bought and sold straight away meaning it is just the same as new.
Watching out for these deals is a great money saver since the value will go down if the car has more mileage and owners, and you can get some incredible deals on used cars that look brand new in Northern Ireland.
Remember to research the value of the car you’re buying and make sure you’re getting a good deal before committing to buying the car.
Buying a used car
Should you buy used car? Buying a used car is the best money saver out of all three however the prices of used cars in Northern Ireland have gone up significantly.
The best option here is to research the car you’re looking for and look out for the price of a brand new version, a near-to-new.
Shopping for cars is exciting however; it could be a long journey to find the perfect fit for you and it’s a good idea to take that time to dig deep and find the best deal.
At Carlover you’ll find a range of options from:
Family friendly
Economical
Performance
Low Tax
Electric
First time buyer cars
To have a browse through the many options of used cars that are refurbished and look brand new, you can do so on our site.
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The Rise of Electric Cars for Transportation
Everyone is talking about the rise of electric cars, as the electric car market grows, with approximately 420,000 pure electric cars on UK roads since the beginning of 2022, the consumer demand grows with it, but used cars in Northern Ireland aren’t a thing of the past just yet and the new era of the used electric boom lurks in the distance.
Carlover knows the demand for electric and hybrid cars, so to simplify the decision making process, we have compiled a profile list of electric car market statistics to help.
In this article, we will discuss how electric transportation has seen a surge in use over the last few years.
When discussing electric vehicles, it is important to note that there are two main types of electric or plug-in vehicles included in this analysis; battery electric vehicle (BEV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).
The number of electric cars that were registered in the UK by February 2022 were more than 780,000 plug-in vehicles with approximately 420,000 BEVs and 360,000 PHEVs registered and on the road.
There are various reasons for the rise in electric transportation mainly being performance and range improvements, government support, advancements in technology and lower costs.
Performance & Range Improvements
Since the release of the first electric car, manufacturers have improved their manufacturing process and improved on the existing technology.
As a result, these improvements have made electric vehicles that can travel further for longer just off one charge.
As the performance of electric vehicles has improved, it’s no secret that electric vehicles are now becoming more in choice.
Government Support on Electric Cars
Governments have pressured car manufacturers by having a requirement for sales to be a particular percentage of electric vehicles.
As a result there are more electric and hybrid vehicles entering the market.
Electric Advancements in Technology
Tesla, the American company, has changed many people’s opinion on electric transportation.
As their vehicles have developed technological features such as self-driving capabilities and touch-screen interfaces, the expectation for electric cars has skyrocketed.
Following Tesla’s successful business model, many manufacturers have started to produce electric vehicles with more futuristic capabilities.
Lower Cost of Running Electric Cars
As the cost of electric cars have been increasingly cheaper, they are now more accessible to the average consumer.
Due to electric cars being available for some time now, buying a second-hand or used car is also becoming much cheaper.
What Are the UK’s Most Popular EV Models?
The top 15 ultra-low emission (ULEV) car registrations by model (UK) 2017-2020:
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
Tesla Model 3
Renault Zoe
Nissan Leaf
BMW i3
Tesla Model S
BMW 330e
BMW 530e
Mercedes Benz C 350 e
Volkswagen Golf GTE
Volvo XC90 Twin Engine
Mini Countryman Cooper S E
Volkswagen e-Golf
Jaguar I-Pace
Tesla Model X
Another key indicator to the size of the UK market for electric cars is the number of car types available.
When electric vehicles were first introduced they covered four main types: city cars, small family cars, small vans and sports coup.
Now there are more than 130 PHEV cars and vans available including large family cars, hatchbacks, SUVs, medium-sized vans and executive models. The rise of electric cars is far from over.
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Mobile Phone Detection Cameras
With used cars sales in Northern Ireland continuing to soar, so are the methods of road traffic control and safety, mobile phone detection cameras are at the forefront with trials rolling out across the UK.
These new technologies are now taking over motorways and catching people using their mobile phones while driving with penalties to be put in place in UK law.
As a society, we’re more glued to our phones than ever seen before, to the extent of even using our mobile phones during high concentration tasks like driving.
Because phones are so easily accessible to us, with the simple reach into our pocket, it seems to be difficult for us to stay away from them.
This is why there was a need to create a system of control where people can get caught for looking at their phones while driving to try and combat the problem.
You’ll be surprised that over 15,000 people were using their phones on a motorway in the UK in the space of 6 months.
Mobile phones and driving
We all trust ourselves while driving since we’re the ones in control. Looking at a phone for a few seconds to quickly type a message or check notifications can seem like something we can easily manage while driving, however things can happen very quickly and suddenly on roads. Usually, all it takes is a second or two to react to a situation that can save your life.
Missing out on something vital happening on the road while checking a phone notification which can be done upon arrival is not worth the possible consequences.
While sometimes we need to take a call, this can be done through car bluetooth systems where it’s not necessary to take attention away from the road, and is much safer.
Along with using a mobile phone while driving, there are other things you probably didn’t know were illegal when driving.
You won’t miss out on anything in the social media world by not looking at your phone during the time of making a journey, but you can surely miss out on a healthy or any life at all. This is where these road traffic control systems come into play
New Mobile Phone Detection Cameras to combat hone use while driving
Using artificial intelligence, a high definition camera captures images of vehicles windscreens and analyses them to scan for phones. Before this was available, people were only caught using their phones if a police officer physically saw them, which is a lot less probable.
This new system is referred to as smart cameras, which not only scan for people using their phones while driving but also if they’re wearing a seatbelt.
Having rules in place is one thing, but being able to monitor them is another. Both are needed to combat the use of mobile phones while driving and the UK is on the right track.
Buying used cars in Northern Ireland has been hugely popular over recent years with less cars being produced. While used cars began to boom so did new security systems, so while we couldn’t purchase newer cars, some advancements happened.
Combating the problem of accidents as a result of paying attention to mobile phones rather than the road is an issue we need to fix.
It’s good to see some action starting to take place in relation to this in the UK, which can hopefully translate into less accidents.
To view some great used cars in Northern Ireland, you can browse through our wide selection and you can be sure to find something for yourself.
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How Sleep Affects your Body
You'll be surprised how sleep affects your body. Sleep deprivation has a correlation with the quality of your sleep and the environment in which you sleep. If you have ever spent a night not getting adequate sleep, then you would be familiar with your next day’s mood - irritability, moody and downright tired. Sometimes it can be due to a hectic day, other times it could be that you’re in need of a new mattress.
Check out our discount beds in Belfast for quality sleep at no additional cost. It’s no secret that getting 7-9 hours of sleep is the recommended amount of sleep to ensure you are fully rested but did you know there are long-term effects of sleep deprivation?
How Sleep Affects your Body-Health Problems from not enough Sleep:
Memory Issues - as you sleep, your brain forms connections that will help you process and retain information. The lack of sleep can negatively affect long-term and short-term memory.
Mood Changes - sleep deprivation can make you very moody, emotional and quick-tempered. Chronic sleep deprivation can escalate to mental health problems such as anxiety or depression.
Weakened Immunity - Little sleep weakens your immune system’s defences against viruses like the common cold and the flu.
High Blood Pressure - Lack of sleep increases the risk for high blood pressure.
Risk of Accidents - Being drowsy can lead to serious accidents such as car accidents and other types of injuries from lack of concentration.
Lack of Concentration - As previously mentioned, sleep deprivation can cause lack of concentration, hinder your creativity and diminish your problem-solving skills.
Heart Disease - Increased blood pressure and higher levels of chemicals linked to the inflammation of the heart can eventually lead to heart disease
Low Sex Drive - people who do not get enough sleep can often have a lower libido.
Poor Balance - Your balance and coordination can be affected, causing you to be prone to falls and physical injuries.
Risk for Diabetes - A lack of sleep can affect how your body releases insulin. People who don’t get enough sleep have higher blog sugar levels and an increased risk for Type 2 Diabetes.
Weight Gain - Chemicals that signal that you are full can often become imbalanced. As a result, you’re more likely to overindulge even when you have had enough to eat.
Ways to improve your Quality of Sleep:
Stick to a sleep schedule - dedicated at most 8 hours of sleep per night. Try to get up and sleep at the same time every day. Limit the difference in your sleep schedule between weekdays and weekends to no more than an hour.
Be aware of what you consume before bed - Avoid eating heavy meals within a couple hours to bedtime. Nicotine, alcohol and caffeine all play a part in keeping you up at night.
Create a restful environment - Do some calming activities before you head to sleep such as meditation or reading. You could improve your sleep by purchasing quality beds ni.
Limit naps during the day - limit naps to no more than 30 minutes and avoid doing so closer to bedtime.
Include physical activities daily - regular exercise can promote better sleep. Additionally, spending time outside can benefit your sleep as well.
Manage your mental health - stress and anxiety should try to be resolved or set aside before you head to bed. Try journaling your anxiety and tell yourself that tomorrow is a whole new day. Organising our mental thoughts, setting priorities and allocating tasks can help with our sleep.
So now that you know how sleep affects your body, you'll know to look out for signs of a worn mattress and get it replaced as soon as you can.
Contact us today for the best discount beds in Belfast and we can assure you that improving your quality of sleep doesn’t mean you need to break the bank!
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Should You Buy A Used Car In 2022?
With less new cars available to purchase, which was a clear result of the pandemic, we saw a rise in popularity of used cars in Northern Ireland, so the question is, should you buy a used car in 2022?
Car manufacturers encountered a couple of issues such as shortages in vital materials used in car manufacturing such as:
Copper
Aluminium and
Cobalt
Along with the above was the problem of chip shortages which slowed down the process of creating new car models.
Since 2019, we saw the purchase of 2.2 million worth of used cars in the UK.
So What’s Currently Affecting the Car Market?
Pandemic
One of the obvious reasons is that many car manufacturing companies were closed which meant there was little to no work on cars being done around 2020.
While 2021 saw a fractions of normality coming back in relation to non essential companies opening back up, car manufactures had to debate their way into being regarded as essential.
Chip Shortage
Chips are the most important component when building a new car and almost every element comes down to this, whether it’s windscreen wipers or electric car batteries.
Struggling with a shortage of chips was probably the biggest influencer in car manufacturing slowing down so vastly.
So is it Good to Buy a Used Car now?
While owning a used car nowadays is great in that you can make better money from selling it, it’s not the best time to buy one.
Due to less new cars on the market, we saw a massive increase in used cars. (As much as 59% since 2019).
Buying a used car may still be a better option than waiting for a new one and still paying a pricey sum. These sky-rocketing prices of used cars are not going away any time soon so it’s a good idea to get familiar ways of finding good deals.
Ways of Finding Affordable Used Cars
Looking out for when car dealers are clearing out the older cars and replacing them with new models is a good way to start. While you may be eager to get the new model as quickly as you can, waiting till the end of the year will definitely save you some money.
You’ll see used cars being offered at discounted prices at the end of the year, since new year means making space for newer cars.
Buying out of season is the smart option of purchasing a used car.
A simple tip that will save you some money is looking up insurance quotes before you make any rash decisions and buy a car.
This way you’ll know exactly what you’re in for and won’t be surprised with high quotes after the car is already outside your house.
Even though buying used cars in Northern Ireland for a good price is quite challenging nowadays, it’s not entirely impossible.
What will help you in this process is knowing a car dealership selling top-tier used cars for cheaper prices. Carlover in Belfast is the place to start browsing, whether you’re living in the North or are purchasing from the Republic.
Take a look for yourself and see!
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Is an Extended Car Warranty Really Worth It?
An extended car warranty is used to help cover the cost of particular vehicle repairs when the manufacturer guarantee expires. They are optional service contracts from third-party vendors.
However, that being said, these plans are not for everyone and it’s important for the car-buyer to know what type of protection they need for their vehicle.
When you think about it, warranties are investments with the reward of financial peace of mind. In this article, we will discuss what are extended warranties and if it’s something you as a consumer need to invest in.
Extended warranties do cost quite a sum of money. This is due to the fact that the individuals that sell them must make a commission too. As a car owner, you need to be responsible for the car’s performance and therefore, if you can’t afford car repairs (a necessary evil to owning a car), then maybe owning a car is something to reconsider.
Different Types of Extended Warranties
Pay for an extension to the cover that came with the vehicle
Buy a policy from the dealership that sold you the vehicle.
Use a comparison website to contact various vendors. This option may be cheaper than the manufacturer’s cover, however it is the
What do Extended Warranties Cover?
Extended warranties will cover the essential mechanical components of your vehicle such as the engine, the suspension, the electrical systems and the transmission. Additionally, extended warranties also cover 24/7 road assistance and tyre protection.
However, extended warranties do not cover day-to-day routine maintenance such as new tyres, oil changes and brake replacements. Not all warranties cover the same things and thus, it is important to read the contract’s fine print carefully.
Are Extended Warranties Worth it?
Before you take the leap extending your car warranty, you need to consider both the advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages:
Can save you money, if the repair is costly. You will only spend a deductible instead of the full payout.
You can choose to pay for an extended warranty at any given time and not just when you first buy the vehicle.
There is financial peace of mind when it comes to inevitable costly repairs.
Disadvantages:
Repairs can only be covered if it’s included in the service contract.
Those who pay for extra coverage often don’t use it and if they do, the cost of the repair is often less than the cost of the warranty.
If your previous warranty and your extended warranty overlap, you may be paying for coverage that already exists. Additionally, with new vehicles, the extended warranty won’t be in use until the manufacturer’s warranty expires.
Depending on the warranty’s provider, there is a risk with buying an extended warranty as if its from a dealer or third party and their business goes to bust, then you may end up with coverage that is unusable
Ensure you are Aware of the Extended Warranty Payments
To summarise this article, extended warranty can become costly and add zeros to your final purchase price. If you choose to pay for a warranty and budget that into your monthly spending, then overall it might not seem like a large sum at first, but over time the money could still result in a significant amount.
Additionally, you need to consider if a warranty is worth it on the vehicle you own. If it is a reliable model with a reliable track record, there may be no need to own a warranty. You could save that money on the side and spend it on what may be more expensive than repairs, cars do cost, and it is important to factor this is.
Finally, it is up to the consumer to truly decide whether or not extending their warranty is worth it. It is also the consumer’s responsibility to be knowledgeable about the pros and cons of warranties. If you do decide to extend your warranty, make sure to weigh out your options, work with credible suppliers and look out for warranty scams.
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Fuel Prices Reach An All Time High – Should You Go Electric
With the current fuel prices and the pandemic induced volatility in the used car market as the result of a chip shortage worldwide, experts scurried to understand the changes, predict the impact and assure the public that there would be a return in stability.
Previously we have discussed the shift to electric vehicles and with the hike in fuel prices in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine sitting at eye wateringly high price points, the obvious choice might seem to be – go electric -, it would certainly seem to be and with the looming ban of the sale of diesel and petrol cars, the question now is: Should I buy an electric car?
With the reports circulating and diesel prices hitting an all time high of £2.07/ litre this month in certain places around the UK, petrol prices also soar and are reportedly sitting at £1.83/ litre. The public urge to consider a shift to electric vehicles is on the rise as the forecourt chaos continues as a result of the rising tensions in Ukraine.
Source: RAC Fuel Watch
Industry body Autotrader has reported a huge increase of over 60% in the searches that they are getting for electric vehicles with record breaking sales backing up the search volumes.
On the edge with deciding to buy an electric car?
The classic combustion engine used car market is far from over, with the average income in UK households, the upfront costs of electric cars are just not feasible and thus the sales of used cars continues to thrive with demand remaining consistent.
The upfront costs of buying an electric car are no shock to the system as the industry is booming and the demand for electric vehicles is at all time high, with fuel prices adding to this. If you are on the edge of buying an electric car, we outline below some information that may help you with your decision:
Running Costs
The charging of each individual vehicle is different, but charging an electric vehicle on the average 12,000 miles costs in and around £500, if you are currently driving a classic combustion engine car, then the average cost is in the realm of £1400.
Over the course of a year making the switch, there is a saving in the running costs of £900 / year or £75/ month.
With the cost of living on the rise and inflation considerations for the future factored in, the average saving of £900/ year would have a big impact on the average UK income.
Insurance on Electric Vehicles
The batteries that ‘fuel’ or drive the vehicle shockingly make up around 45-50% of the vehicle – making them expensive to repair, but looking at comparison sites and the industry average, the cost of insuring an electric car and a typical combustion engine car are not worlds apart.
Insurance Average: Car Type
Electric: £490
Diesel: £509
Petrol: £456
This price point though, can be associated with the fact that there are limited repair options as the mechanic industry seeks to retrain in the maintenance and repair of electric cars to future proof their livelihood. As the repair costs and the availability of the skill becomes more widespread as electric vehicles begin to make up the majority of the market – this is a price that will come down considerably as consumers have more options available to them.
The Boom of the Used Electric Car Market Is Coming
With zero emissions and therefore no tax payable on the on road status of the car, there is a saving immediately that can be attained. The rise of electric cars, the ban of combustion engine sales looming and the current price hikes in fuel, the electric car market is set to boom. Therefore the used electric car market is going to follow suit as we gear up for an emission less roads across the nation – time to invest in the electric car market it would seem.
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Over The Border: Purchasing A Used Car In Northern Ireland
Purchasing a used car in Northern Ireland is not as easy as it once was, but not impossible and with the prices soaring, it could be your best option.
Finding a cheap used car in Northern Ireland would have been a task, however it’s not entirely impossible to navigate around this with Carlover’s smart used car search platform.
Making the trip to the North used to be a trick used by many people in the Republic of Ireland, to secure a great bargain on a cheaper car and saving a good chunk of money. This has changed vastly since Brexit came into effect, with new import taxes from the UK, making it more difficult to bring cars into the country, and making it a hell of a lot more expensive.
This has resulted in the existing cars on the market’s prices skyrocketing in the last few years, making it difficult to purchase a car in Northern Ireland. If you happen to need to sell your car right now, you’re in a lucky position as this is the best time to do this, but if Brexit caught you at a time where you need to buy one-today isn’t your lucky day.
There are ways to navigate around this however, and it’s not impossible to still land yourself a good deal, using the below tips:
Best time to Buy
Buying a car in Northern Ireland is a lot less time consuming than doing so in England, and there’s a difference in that cars registered before January 1st 2021 are not subject to VAT or customs duty on import to Ireland.
Almost like properties, Used Cars go through phases and keeping an eye on the prices will get you in a good habit of knowing the best time to make your purchase in Northern Ireland.
UK Registration plates change twice annually (March and September), and in those months many car dealers need to make room to bring new cars in and therefore-sell off the used cars. This is a great time to come in and get the best deal.
Ways of Paying
Making a journey to Northern Ireland was always a common way for people from the Republic to get a good used car deal. Even though the world is a little different with Brexit coming into place, it’s still worthwhile travelling up North if you know a few ways of saving money.
Purchasing something in a foreign currency comes with finding the right place that will give you the most fair exchange, and it doesn’t always have to be a bank. Knowing what the currency exchange rates are will put you in a better position of differentiating between a good and bad deal. (Currently €1 = £0.83.)
CurrencyFair
There are regulated online currency exchange marketplaces that offer exchanges for no fees, such as CurrencyFair that offers free transfers (up to 10 purchases). This App can also be used to send the payment directly to the car dealers bank account.
Revolut
With revolut you can pay up to € 1,000 in a different currency without any conversion fee and anything above that has a 0.5% fee. When making a foreign currency purchase of a car worth €5,000, you can expect to pay a €20 fee using Revolut.
Banks
If using cash is your preferred choice of payment, you can make your conversions at a local bank, but make sure to pay close attention to Buy Rates.
For example; AIB has a maximum charge of €6.35 although their conversion rates are higher at £0.85, so for €5,000 you’d receive €4056 when it’s actually worth €4,140.
Currency rates are always changing in banks, so it’s useful to keep track of this and you might find a great deal. When making a large sum purchase like a Car, it’s good to save any money you can as you’ll find that every little bit adds up.
Safety Checks
Make sure the car dealer you’re purchasing from is a legitimate seller. You can do this buy
Asking for a logbook
Check that the Vehicle Identification number (VIN) corresponds with the registration document.
The safest option is to buy a car from a reputable company. Purchasing a car from a legitimate car dealership like CarLover rather than an individual will give you that security of knowing you’re in good hands.
Car Lovers in Belfast only list the best quality used cars in the market which look brand new, at competitive prices.
If you’re interested in purchasing a used car in Northern Ireland, be sure to check us out!
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Electric Car Maintenance and Servicing
With the number of newly purchased electric cars doubling within the last year, it’s safe to say that they’re growing in popularity and understanding electric car maintenance requirements will follow suit as will the used car market. With easy maintenance and less frequent servicing, it comes as no surprise that people are choosing to go electric.
Electric cars have not only attracted the technology savvy people, but those who want to live a more environmentally friendly life as it’s been proved that “one electric car on the roads can save an average 1.5 million grams of CO2”.
What’s better than keeping up with the newest technological advancements and saving the planet at the same time?
Fewer parts
Along with being much better for our planet, EV’s come with fewer parts which means less worry about replacing them-leading to cheaper general maintenance in comparison to a regular petrol or diesel car. Despite many car enthusiasts preferring to stick with the classic petrol and diesel cars, they may find themselves regularly replacing car parts which can be quite expensive.
With no more than 20 components in an Electric car and no oil filters or water pumps that need to be replaced, there is much less to worry about. Fault codes can be easily checked when connecting the car to a diagnostic machine.
Electric Car Battery Maintenance
Similarly with the battery, it is very low maintenance. You may think an electric car battery is similar to your smartphone or tablet and that you’ll have to dedicate a lot of time to re-charging; however, EV’s are equipped with a completely different type of battery to ensure a long battery life. Individual cells may be checked for performance along with a visual inspection of cables.
Charging your Electric Car
There are three different types of chargers depending on your car make, the size of your car’s battery size and how many miles you generally do in-between charging times.
Slow charging time which takes up to 10 hours.
Quick charging time which takes up to 4 hours.
Very quick charging time which takes up to 1 hour.
You can find maps online of where charging places are located or download an similar app. – changed to zap map for EV charging points in NI
Three types of chargers:
DC Chademo: for Nissan Leaf and Mitsubishi.
CCS Combo: for BMW, Volskwagen and Hyundai.
AC (UK three pin plug, Type 1 plug and Type 2 plug): Renault Zoe.
Servicing your Electric Car
When it comes to servicing your Electric car, it’s best to contact an authorised dealer where an EV specialist can assist you, although a reputable local garage with professional mechanics will also be able to help you. Like any other vehicle, you should visit a specialist roughly once every year or two depending on the manufacturer.
The most important aspects to regularly monitor in an Electric vehicle are brakes, suspension and tyres. Even though EV’s need to be monitored regularly just like a petrol or diesel car, you can expect to pay even half less for a check-up.
In relation to Battery life, EV’s have a cooling system within them which ensures the battery is at the right temperature. In addition to this, most Electric Car manufacturers offer a battery warranty of between 3-10 years, so you don’t need to worry much about it.
Electric cars are undoubtedly the way forward, with a total ban of purchasing petrol and diesel cars starting in 2030.
Are you thinking about switching to Electric and removing your emissions contribution and carbon footprint? We have a series of blogs covering the topic.
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Why To Invest In The Used Car Market
The used car market is thriving across the UK and Northern Ireland. This is due to the shortage of new car models due to the chip shortage alongside the rising prices of new models. It has become cheaper for car buyers to invest in used cars NI rather than paying for a brand new model. There is a range of used cars on the market to suit your budget. We have created a list of reasons on why to invest in the used car market today and how this will benefit you in the long run.
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Used Cars Are Cheaper
One of the top reasons why people decide to invest in used cars Belfast is because they are cheaper and come with better deals. Compared to newer cars on the market you can buy a used car for nearly half the price. As many of these cars have been around for many years, it will be cheaper to repair them compared to brand new models. As these parts will be readily available you will not have to source them from the official retailers.
Lower Insurance Fees
Buying a used car will come with smaller insurance charges. It will cost a lot more money trying to insure a brand new car as there will be a bigger financial risk if this car was to get into a collision. When you are changing from one used car to another, your insurance will only rise by a negligible amount.
No Waiting Periods
Usually, when someone purchases a brand new vehicle they don’t get to drive home right away. It is common to have to wait a while until the stock of these newer models arrives at your dealership. This differs from when you buy from the used car market as the transaction process is a lot more straightforward and a quicker process. You will be able to drive home the same day you buy the car.
Lower Tax and Registration Fees
Brand new car models are more expensive to register and tax. If you purchase a used vehicle you will miss out on having to pay a substantial amount of fees by driving a slightly older car. Vehicle taxes are usually determined based on the current retail of the car you are purchasing. Cars that are a number of years old may be eligible for discounted taxes, so it is a good idea to check this information out before deciding on your final purchase.
Car Depreciation Is An Advantage
New cars depreciate at a faster rate compared to used cars. Less than half of a car’s depreciation will happen within the first year after its purchase. After a number of years, the depreciation begins to slow down. This means that the value of used cars won’t depreciate further than they already have.
At Carlover we understand that purchasing a car is one of the second largest purchases that people will make after taking out a mortgage on their home. We have a range of used cars for sale NI from a range of major brands, including BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Mercedes and Tesla. To view the range of cars we have for sale in dealerships across Northern Ireland, browse to Carlover now .
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How to Get Cheaper Car Insurance
Car insurance premiums in Northern Ireland have seen price fluctuations over the previous years due to inflation within the automotive industry so if you are looking for cheaper car insurance for your used car in Belfast or further afield Northern Ireland – you have come to the right place.
It’s no secret that these car insurance premiums are based on a magnitude of factors. This can range from one’s age, gender, occupation, the horsepower of your vehicle, how the vehicle is used, your address, the mileage of your vehicle, the type of cover you will need, your experience driving, if you have any insurance claims, your car insurance excess and if your insurance provider offers multiple insurance policies.
Influences On Insurance Prices
On that note, car insurance premiums can be heavily influenced on the make and model of your vehicle. The more expensive a car is, the more likely it is for you to pay a higher premium. For example, older vehicles are more at increased risk to break down, therefore increasing your premium.
However, used vehicles may also have lower insurance due to the loss of value in the vehicle. A brand new car has more risk to it than a used car and this is a factor insurers take into account when setting a quote.
How can we combat this? Here are some tips guaranteed to lower your car insurance that you might want to take action on considering the rising costs of fuel.
Paying Your Premium Upfront
By paying your premium annually instead of monthly, you can avoid interest as high as 20% from your provider.
Consider Buying a Secondhand or Used Car
Depending on your vehicle’s make and model, the cost of your insurance can be lowered. Remember, older vehicles are more likely to break down therefore, increasing the price of insurance. However, depending on how you choose to use your vehicle, your insurance cost is unique to you.
The used cars in Northern Ireland have seen a price inflation, particularly on vehicles aged 1-3 years, even exceeding the original price of some models made brand new. If you’re an experienced driver, having a used car may be more beneficial as you already have an existing record that insurers can verify.
Receive Quotes from Insurance Brokers
Inquiring about quotes from different providers is the equivalent to shopping around and looking for the best value. You can receive quotes from online brokers, or alternatively through insurers. By doing so, you can give yourself the best quote by comparing notes.
Avoid Last Minute Renewal of Your Insurance Cover
The best time to buy cover would roughly be around 3 weeks before your existing policies expire. There is increased competition among providers to compete on price as consumers are able to compare them to each other.
Become a Named Driver/ Add an Experienced Driver to Your Policy
If you’re a recently qualified driver and the cost of owning your own policy is too expensive, it might be more economically better for you to be added as a named driver on a guardian’s or sibling’s car. Alternatively, you can add an experienced driver with a clean licence to your policy, as their record can aid in bringing the cost down.
Consider having a Multiple Car Policy
Using the same insurance provider for households with multiple cars can result in having lower car insurance premiums.
There you have it, 6 top tips on how to get cheaper car insurance in Northern Ireland! If you’re looking into getting a used car then get in touch with Car Lover Northern Ireland and follow our top tips on getting a better deal on the insurance.
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Electric Car Emissions: Remove Your Footprint
Electric car emissions are non existent, they are better for the environment compared to fuel powered vehicles. They produce fewer greenhouse gases and can improve the quality of air in the areas you live in. In recent years electric used cars across Northern Ireland have become more accessible to suit a range of budgets as their costs have dropped.
We have created a list of how electric vehicles can lower your carbon footprint and why you should consider switching to electric.
Electric Cars Emissions: Go Green
Fully electric vehicles have zero CO2 emissions, making them kinder to the environment compared to cars powered by petrol or diesel. They do not emit harmful gases into the environment, which is a major cause of air pollution. By reducing these harmful emissions into the air, Northern Ireland will be taking a step towards using more sustainable and renewable sources of transport.
As technology is also advancing, EVs are developing with more environmentally friendly batteries and quieter engines. This will help to make driving a pleasurable experience for everyone. At Carlover we have a range of electric cars for sale NI from well known manufacturers around the world.
Browse Our Electric Vehicles
Easy and Fast Charging
Many people are put off purchasing an electric vehicle due to the fact their batteries need to be charged. They feel that it is more convenient to top up a car with fuel at their nearest station. However this couldn’t be more wrong as charging your electric vehicle is fast, easy and cost efficient.
The UK Government has released a government grant that will help you to cover the costs when installing an EV charging port at your home. Once installed, charging your car will be as easy as plugging your phone or laptop into charge.
The most popular electric vehicle home charging port is the 7kW charger that will charge your car to full battery between 5 to 10 hours. Using these chargers means that you will save money that you would have spent topping your car up with petrol or diesel, and you are also using less of these fossil fuels that are damaging to our environment.
Reduces Noise Pollution
Electric vehicles are a lot quieter than fuel powered cars. One of the first things that people realise after switching to an EV is how quiet it is when out on the road. This will create a more enjoyable and relaxing driving experience, especially when you are travelling longer journeys.
Electric cars are so quiet that a law has been put in place that they need to make a noise above 56dB when the car is reversing or travelling under 12mph to alert pedestrians of their presence. Investing in an electric vehicle will help to reduce noise pollution as well as lowering your carbon footprint. This will help to create an enjoyable and peaceful environment in your town or city.
At Carlover we have a range of used electric cars in Belfast in our dealerships, that are located in a number of towns and cities across Northern Ireland. Whether you are new to EVs and would like to learn more or you would like to upgrade your current electric model, we have something to suit everyone’s needs and budgets.
For more information on our range of electric vehicles and how it can help you to lower your carbon footprint jump on over to Carlover today.
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Fuel Price Hike Fuelling The Electric Movement
With the fuel price hike across the UK and Northern Ireland that have sparked chaos at the fuel pumps recently, it's a likely scenario that those seeking a new vehicle might opt to go electric sooner than originally planned.
Save the cues at the fuel stations and the fluctuating prices by switching to electric and ensuring yourself a more stable energy source.
The Benefits of Electric Cars
Whether you are hoping to have a positive impact on the environment or simply just trying to see a positive balance in your bank with the savings on fuel, there are a multitude of benefits that come from going green.
No Emissions and Reduction in Noise
Operating on an electric battery means that you will not be contributing any emissions on your journeys and will do so in silence as EV’s seamlessly glide to your destination. The reduction in noise is just pleasant and sitting at the traffic lights if everyone went electric would just be a healthier alternative for us and the planet.
Cheaper Running and Maintenance
With less than half the fuel costs to run your vehicle and no cueing at fuel pumps, you save time and money. As well as this, the costs to repair EV’s is substantially lower, so while you may be met with upfront costs in buying the vehicle, the savings over your time with the car are black and white to see - simply amazing.
There has been a dramatic increase in the search for electric vehicles, across electric cars and van’s mainly. The rise is very apparent, with EV sales increasing by a staggering 76% last year. With over 1.2 million electric and hybrid vehicles on the road UK wide, there is a trend that is only set to explode over the next few years.
Fuel Price Hike:Go Green
Asides from the very apparent environmental impact that switching electric has, there is also the money saving and the time factor to consider. There are government grants to switch to electric vehicles, hitting the £1500 mark, so if you are on the fence, maybe that is the push you needed.
We have a range of used electric cars on our smart search used car database and work with some of the top used car dealerships across Northern Ireland.
We are committed to helping you find the used car you deserve, be that a traditional combustion engine, hybrid or electric, you can count on Carlover to complete your search.
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Electric Car Emissions: Remove Your Footprint
Electric car emissions are non existent, they are better for the environment compared to fuel powered vehicles. They produce fewer greenhouse gases and can improve the quality of air in the areas you live in. In recent years electric used cars across Northern Ireland have become more accessible to suit a range of budgets as their costs have dropped.
We have created a list of how electric vehicles can lower your carbon footprint and why you should consider switching to electric.
Electric Cars Emissions: Go Green
Fully electric vehicles have zero CO2 emissions, making them kinder to the environment compared to cars powered by petrol or diesel. They do not emit harmful gases into the environment, which is a major cause of air pollution. By reducing these harmful emissions into the air, Northern Ireland will be taking a step towards using more sustainable and renewable sources of transport.
As technology is also advancing, EVs are developing with more environmentally friendly batteries and quieter engines. This will help to make driving a pleasurable experience for everyone. At Carlover we have a range of electric cars for sale NI from well known manufacturers around the world.
Browse Our Electric Vehicles
Easy and Fast Charging
Many people are put off purchasing an electric vehicle due to the fact their batteries need to be charged. They feel that it is more convenient to top up a car with fuel at their nearest station. However this couldn’t be more wrong as charging your electric vehicle is fast, easy and cost efficient.
The UK Government has released a government grant that will help you to cover the costs when installing an EV charging port at your home. Once installed, charging your car will be as easy as plugging your phone or laptop into charge.
The most popular electric vehicle home charging port is the 7kW charger that will charge your car to full battery between 5 to 10 hours. Using these chargers means that you will save money that you would have spent topping your car up with petrol or diesel, and you are also using less of these fossil fuels that are damaging to our environment.
Reduces Noise Pollution
Electric vehicles are a lot quieter than fuel powered cars. One of the first things that people realise after switching to an EV is how quiet it is when out on the road. This will create a more enjoyable and relaxing driving experience, especially when you are travelling longer journeys.
Electric cars are so quiet that a law has been put in place that they need to make a noise above 56dB when the car is reversing or travelling under 12mph to alert pedestrians of their presence. Investing in an electric vehicle will help to reduce noise pollution as well as lowering your carbon footprint. This will help to create an enjoyable and peaceful environment in your town or city.
At Carlover we have a range of used electric cars in Belfast in our dealerships, that are located in a number of towns and cities across Northern Ireland. Whether you are new to EVs and would like to learn more or you would like to upgrade your current electric model, we have something to suit everyone’s needs and budgets.
For more information on our range of electric vehicles and how it can help you to lower your carbon footprint jump on over to Carlover today.
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Used Car Maintenance Tips for Summer
The Summer months provide ideal weather for road trips, vacations, drive in movies, and unfortunately, car troubles, we have put together a list of some of the best car maintenance tips. If you are considering purchasing a used car in Northern Ireland this summer we are here to help you ensure your car is safe for travel during the warmer months.
Following our used car maintenance tips for Summer will ensure you are prepared for all scenarios that will protect your car, you and your passengers when out on the road.
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Maintain Your Air Conditioning
Losing your air condition on a hot summer day can lead you to feel uncomfortable and frustrated. One of the best ways to tell that your air conditioning has issues is by checking if it can maintain temperatures that are 10 degrees or below the temperatures outside of the car.
Air conditioning is an essential when driving in the summer months. If your system was experiencing issues during the winter months now is the time to get this checked out.
Checking Your Tire Pressure
Tyres that are low on air, over inflated, worn out or misaligned can pose a threat when out on the road and can reduce your fuel economy. If you are planning a summer trip away, the last thing you want is for your tyres to blow out during your journey. Checking your tyres regularly can save you money in the long run and can prevent high repair bills.
Check Your Car Battery
Battery failure is one of the most common reasons for a car breaking down. Extreme warm temperatures during the Summer months can decrease the life of your car battery if it is not properly sealed as it will cause the electrolyte to evaporate quicker.
You should regularly check your car battery’s fluid level and top it up with distilled water if needed. Battery health checks can also help to prevent corrosion and battery acid leakages that can lead to serious car problems if left untreated.
Used Cars In Northern Ireland
Clean Your Car
The long Summer evenings when the sun is low in the sky are stunning views, however they can also be hazardous for your car especially if your car’s windshield is covered in dirt. This layer of dirt and debris from the road mixed with the bright sun can make it difficult for you to see while driving. As this dirt builds up over a long period of time, we usually don’t notice any problem until it is too late.
Keeping the exterior of your used cars Belfast clean will also protect the paintwork from the sun’s rays, and will keep the car’s exterior looking fresh. Cleaning your car regularly will help to prevent corrosion and damage to your car that might cost you money to repair in the long run.
Change the Air Filter
A car’s air filter acts like a barrier against dirt, debris and other airborne particles that can cause damage to the engine. Over time the air filter can become blocked which will restrict airflow to your car’s engine. This can affect the performance of your car when out on the road and can lead to your car’s power stopping altogether. Before your next long road trip, it is a good idea to get this checked to ensure that your car is in top working condition when out on the road.
At Carlover we understand that used cars NI are a long term investment. Looking after your car can help your car to stay in quality condition until you are ready for your next upgrade. For more information on the range of cars for sale NI we have in our local dealerships, you can view our website and check out the major brands we have in store.
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Inflation In The Automotive Industry
We have previously delved into the price fluctuations of the used cars market but as the inflation of the automotive industry continues we are here to give you up to date information on the industry as a whole so that you can act accordingly.
The competition for new vehicles is so high around the globe, while that is to do with new vehicles, this in turn directly impacts the demand for used cars and the supply still just cannot catch up. This means that consumers are left with a limited choice in the cars available to them, markups in the price and a greater urgency to proceed with the deal, meaning less shopping around.
Ordering a New Car
Those that are purchasing a new vehicle instead of a used car are faced with a dilemma of avoiding the dealership markups by ordering directly from the car manufacturer, but in doing this, they are hit with 6 – 8 weeks wait time on receiving their purchase – often a luxury that people can’t afford.
Leasing Less Enticing
With stock levels of cars running low and the ones that are available being decked out with all of the extras – they are so much less likely to be sought out for leasing as the depreciation value is often a lot higher.
If you are currently in a lease agreement, it would be a great idea to do some research and consider buying out your lease as the market value was calculated years before the market entered such a volatile state.
Relief From Used Cars
With the shortage, the buyer preferences changed – albeit forcefully – to used cars. This caused a shortage of its own that wasn’t associated with the chip shortage, but rather the unprecedented demand, which led to sky high prices.
There are used cars on the market today that are 1 – 3 years old with the price exceeding that of a new car. While there is stability predicted in the market, for the time being, the prices are at record highs across the country.
We partner with the top, award winning used car dealerships across Northern Ireland to bring to you the best used cars on the market at just the touch of a button with our smart and easy to use car search engine that brings you all of the options that are available to you.
Consider Going Electric
With the governments help to buy electric car grant that is circulating at the moment, the reduced running fees of electric cars, the sky high new and used car prices, as well as considering the green initiative that is planned to ban the sale of diesel and petrol cars by 2030 – a lot of roads lead to electric cars or even hybrid models that are available on the market as a very viable contender. You can read more in our other blog about the cost of a electric cars.
We are proud of the support that we have provided to the people of Northern Ireland in the most unprecedented price hike in the history of the used car market. Matching hundreds of thousands of people with the right used car that matches their financial circumstances from the best used car dealers in Belfast and greater Northern Ireland.
Check Out Some of Our Used Car Dealers:
Shelbourne Motors
McKinney Motors
Colin Francis Cars
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