Buying a used car can be a fraught process, but Motornet has some tips to help you get the best deal.

• Make sure that your budget includes the cost of insurance, tax, and any work that may be needed.
• Check price guides first, so that you know as much as you can about the value of different cars and can avoid being overcharged.
• Whichever car you choose, test-drive it before committing yourself. If necessary, hire a car of the same model for a day. Check that it will fit into your garage, if you have one. If there will be more than one regular driver, make sure you can all find a comfortable driving position.
• Don't be afraid to bargain – many sellers will have allowed for haggling in setting a price. Set a price limit before you bargain, and stick to it.
• Don't be pressured into buying.
• Don't hand over money until satisfactory arrangements for collecting or taking delivery of the car have been made. Check for everything included in the price, especially any work that the seller agreed to carry out.
• Ask about the car's service history, and check any documentation provided, including current and previous NCT certificates.
• Treat with caution anything that seems like a real bargain, or has a very low mileage for its age.
• Walk away if you're not completely happy.
  
  

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