| Buying a second hand car can be something of a | | | | inspection until you were sure that that was the |
| lottery if you are not well informed about cars | | | | vehicle you wanted to buy. |
| and their values. And even if you are, there are | | | | When carrying out visual checks on the car, |
| still some obvious pitfalls you should avoid if you | | | | remember to check the tyres for even wear. If |
| want to ensure that you've bought a quality used | | | | the wear is uneven, then there may be a |
| car. | | | | problem with the car's suspension. Some |
| The first thing to do when considering buying a | | | | unscrupulous dealers or individuals may tamper |
| second hand car is to acquire a second-hand car | | | | with the mileage on a car, so check that the |
| price guide. Many newsagents stock these and | | | | wear and tear on the vehicle is consistent with |
| failing that there are plenty of online guides | | | | the recorded miles. For example, if the car is |
| available. While these won't be free, but they will | | | | advertised as doing only 5,000 miles but the tyres |
| be a great investment, and the few pounds you | | | | are worn and the bonnet is covered in stone |
| spend on a guide could save you hundreds, or | | | | chips, then that evidence isn't consistent with the |
| even thousands when it comes to buying your | | | | advertised mileage. And if the car is over three |
| car. You'll also get a good indication of what type | | | | years old ask to see its MOT certificate. |
| of vehicle you can afford and what price you | | | | Never buy a car without taking it for a test drive |
| should expect to pay. | | | | - however great it looks stood on the drive or |
| Although the next tip sounds obvious, it is | | | | forecourt. But do make sure that you are insured |
| amazing how many people don't follow it: when | | | | to do so before getting into the driver's seat! By |
| you go to look at the car you are interested in, | | | | driving the car you'll not only get a feel for |
| make sure you view it in the daylight! All the | | | | whether this is the car for you, but also you can |
| flaws, scratches and any other body faults will be | | | | be alerted to any potential problems. Drive at a |
| clearly visible, and you'll get a much clearer | | | | variety of speeds, up and down hills and in |
| perception of the car than if you viewed it at | | | | reverse. This way you'll be able to highlight any |
| night. This applies equally, whether you are | | | | suspension or clutch problems. |
| interested in buying from a garage or a private | | | | Lastly, stick to your guns; If you are after a |
| individual. | | | | particular make of car - whether it's a used Ford |
| Getting a second opinion is a must. But get it | | | | car, a second-hand Renault Clio or a classic Land |
| from someone who can give you an unbiased | | | | Rover - make sure you buy the one you want! |
| opinion and preferably someone with mechanical | | | | Don't be persuaded to come away with a car you |
| knowledge. If you don't know anyone personally, | | | | didn't really want but that the salesman insists is |
| major road organisations such as the AA and | | | | far superior and a much better deal to your |
| RAC will inspect the car for you for a fee, | | | | original choice. The chances are it's not! |
| although it wouldn't be advisable to organise an | | | | |