Seven Million Brits to consider purchasing a used car ahead of daily commute; Green Flag reveals common-sense tips before purchasing one

• Two thirds (62 per cent) of Brits to actively avoid public transport post-lockdown
• A quarter (25 per cent) of Brits to consider a new mode of transport
• A third (32 per cent) to consider buying either a new or used car to avoid public transport
• Green Flag has released several common-sense tips for purchasing a used car, as well as all the information you need for driving during COVID-19

With the relaxation of certain lockdown measures taking place across the country, Brits are readying themselves for their potential return to the workplace and a slight sense of normality. For many, the pandemic has transformed how people will be approaching their commute; as a result, the UK can expect to see noticeable changes on its roads and public transport systems.

New research conducted by breakdown provider, Green Flag, has revealed that a staggering two thirds* (62 per cent) of Brits admit they will actively avoid public transport when they travel to work again, in order to adhere to social distancing rules as much as possible. What’s more, a quarter (25 per cent) of all commuters indicated they are even considering a new mode of transport to their previous commute preference in order to travel responsibly.  

City dwellers look likely to swap old habits for new, with a quarter of Londoners (25 per cent) set to consider a new mode of transport, while a fifth (22 per cent) claim to be looking to invest in a bicycle to get them to and from work – the most out of any region in the UK.  

While recent findings showed that motor vehicle traffic decreased by 2.1 per cent during the lockdown period, the largest drop since quarterly records started in 1994**, the easing of the lockdown measures could see this figure rise above pre COVID-19 levels. Green Flag’s survey indicated that almost a third (32 per cent) of Brits are planning on purchasing either a new or used car to avoid exposure to the virus on public transport.

Interestingly, the survey went on to reveal that it is in fact the younger generations (18-34-year-olds) that are the most conscientious travellers, with 76 per cent admitting that they plan on avoiding public transport when travel resumes. Likewise, the Gen Z and Millennial generations (18-34-year-olds) are the age group (61 per cent) also most likely to source an alternative mode of transport when travelling to and from work - compared to just 16 per cent of all 55-64-year-olds.

Mark Newberry, Commercial Director at Green Flag said: “Workers around the country will no doubt be both excited and nervous about the prospect of heading back to the workplace, with the idea of commuting likely to contribute to their worries. Our research shows that Brits are taking the necessary steps to prepare for their return to regular commuting - not only to protect their individual health, but to be conscious of their fellow commuters by exploring alternative ways to travel."

“With nearly a third of Brits looking to purchase a car to limit their exposure to other members of the public, we can expect roads to look very different to what they did pre-lockdown. What’s certain though, is that Green Flag will be there 24/7 to ensure drivers are protected at every step of the way. To help we provided hints and tips on travelling safely during COVID-19 and also car health tips on our website”

With car purchases set to soar amongst commuters, the research reveals that 7.2 million***Brits will consider purchasing a used car specifically. While buying a used car has obvious financial advantages, there are a number of considerations that need to be taken into account. As a result, Green Flag has detailed some checks before making the purchase.

Green Flag’s common-sense tips for buying a used car:

• Check how reliable the car will be

Before you pick up the phone to enquire about a used car, set aside all assumptions and prejudices. The Reliability Index lets you search for ratings of makes, or individual models of used car to see how reliable they are, based upon more than a decade of warranty claims made to Warranty Direct. You can also utilise Green Flag’s Vehicle Checker to ensure you know all of the vital information about a vehicle's history before making a purchase.

• Condition and service history worth more than low mileage and cheap price

A faulty car often turns out to be one that hasn’t been looked after.

Although one car may cost £4000 and have covered 50,000 miles, its service history could be very patchy at best. And the condition may suggest it was only treated to one wash and vacuum in its lifetime.

Meanwhile, another car that’s done 65,000 miles may actually have a complete, no-expense spared service history which is likely to mean the car should be less troublesome over time. And its immaculate cosmetic condition is a clear indication that the car has been lovingly cared for.

• Insist on seeing the car – and always in daylight

When purchasing a used car: don’t place a deposit on a car until you’ve seen it, and always try to view the car in daylight.

That way, there won’t be the hassle of trying to get your deposit returned if you find that the bodywork or chassis is rusting, the panels appear to be painted different colours or the infotainment screen is on the blink. It’s also important to remember to take into account all Government guidelines and to maintain a social distance, and potentially carry cleaning products for before and after touching parts of the car. 

• Have the car inspected

You’ve viewed the cars on your shortlist and have a favourite option that you’d like to buy. Trouble is, you don’t know one end of a crankshaft from the other when it comes to inspecting a car. Fear not. A local garage can perform a vehicle health check on a used car for you. For a modest sum – typically £100, which most sellers will knock off the price if you subsequently buy the car – a recommended local garage or even the bigger, franchised dealerships will put a car under their mechanical microscope.

- ENDS –

Notes to Editors:

*Research carried out by 4 Media Group on 2,000 Brits, June, 2020

** Department for Transport: Provisional Road Traffic Estimates, Great Britain: April 2019 - March 2020, https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/886199/prov-road-traffic-estimates-gb-april-2019-to-march-2020.pdf

***Figure based on UK population of 18+ (as of 2017) to be 52,078,525

About Green Flag

With over 40 years' experience, Green Flag provides customers with breakdown cover 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Customers have access to a network of breakdown operators across the UK and mainland Europe (Euro Plus cover required).

Green Flag Motoring Assistance is underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England and Wales No 1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

Green Flag and U K Insurance Limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc. 

Customers can find out more about Green Flag products or get a quote by calling 0345 246 1557, connecting via the Green Flag Rescue Me Application, or visiting www.greenflag.com