Should I buy an approved used car without seeing or driving it first?

I'm looking at buying a used Mazda. I’ve looked on the company’s used car finder and found a good Mazda 6 that meets the spec and price I want – the catch is it’s in the other side of the country. If this was private or independent dealer, I wouldn’t consider this, but with the car being an approved Mazda I'm wondering if it would make sense to buy the car without seeing it.

I've test-driven similar cars, so I know that this is the model I want, and the Mazda used car scheme gives a year's warranty and 30 day exchange. Would it make any sense to do this, or should you always insist on seeing a used car, even if it is manufacturer approved?

Asked on 18 September 2013 by Aidan

Answered by Honest John
This would scare me because getting the car for you will involve expense by the local Mazda dealer and if you find faults with it or that the car is not to your liking you will still be under some pressure to buy it. Pressure you can legally resist if you have not paid a deposit. If you have paid a deposit you would have to invoke breach of contract by the dealer for some fault with the car.
Similar questions
I have found a Mazda 6 1.8s for £3995 with 103,000 miles on the clock. It's a petrol model with full Mazda dealer service history. Is this a good buy or should I avoid it?
I am in the process of handing back a company car (Ford Focus ST-2) and am now in the market to purchase my own car. I have a few choices: Mazda 6 MPS - 2006-2007, Lexus IS 250 - 2005-2006 or a Mercedes-Benz...
I am planning to buy a car and getting confused between a Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost Zetec vs the Ford Fiesta EcoBoost 1.0 Zetec. Can you please advise as I read some mixed reviews for EcoBoost engines, are...
Related models
A very enjoyable drive, with excellent handling and some fine engines. Large luggage bay. Brilliant 'Karakuri' rear seat folding of hatch and estate.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer