From today, March 1, 2022, new cars will be registered with a new number plate featuring the “22” registration tag. The new licence plates will also incorporate previous changes announced in 2021, which outlined the requirements needed for the plate to be road legal.
They will be “BS AU 145e” standard plates which meet the new British Standard for Retroreflective Number Plates.
The plates are made from a tougher material which makes them more resistant to abrasion and other damage.
This change was made to make it easier for Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to read the plate.
The new number plates will also have to include the supplier’s business name and postcode, along with the name of the number plate manufacturer and the new standard.
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Sometimes, car dealerships will get rid of old stock at discounted prices in February and August, with some of those vehicles remaining on the dealership forecourts for weeks.
A spokesperson for Shawbrook Bank said: “Buying a used car can mean big savings compared to purchasing a new model, but it also comes with an element of risk.
“That’s why, before jumping into it, it’s essential to carry out plenty of research, learn your rights as a buyer, and know what to look for.
“Being prepared can not only save a substantial amount of money upfront, but it can also prevent facing costly surprises further down the line.”
However, purchasing a vehicle from a private seller comes with extra risk as they aren’t covered by the Consumer Rights Act.
Even if they are offered at a cheaper price, drivers won’t have the same legal comeback if they find out they’ve been sold a faulty vehicle.
According to the Department for Transport, the average annual car mileage is 7,400 miles, so if a car has driven significantly more – or less – than this, it could be a red flag.
Motorists can check the MOT history of a vehicle before purchasing using the Government website and searching the registration number.
Shawbrook Bank also urged drivers to make sure they’re getting a good deal before making an offer, using a free online price guide to give them an idea of the going rate for the car they are considering.
