Cambridge University
Automobile Club

A Helpful Guide for Buying a Used Car

Buying a used car always feels like a bit of a gamble — will you get a bargain or end up paying over the odds for a car that breaks down on the way home?

The best plan of action is to consider all the factors when buying a used car before you start searching for your car of you choice with our quick guide to finding a car that's worth the money you will be paying.

• DO YOUR HOMEWORK. The consumer advice service is an excellent place to start for information. It has checklists and information on its website, www.consumerdirect.gov.uk. It says: "Buying a car from a dealer is the safest way to buy, as you get the maximum protection of the law. But there are dodgy dealers, so follow our advice to make sure your dealer follows a code of practice, stays within the law and gives you all the information you need before you make your purchase."
• CHECK THE PAPERWORK. Once you've found a car with potential, it's important to check all the paperwork is correct. For example, if the vehicle is more than three years old, it must have a valid MOT certificate. Check that the mileage on the form matches with the car. Preferably, there should also be a full service history provided with the vehicle too and proof of ownership with the car's V5 document included. You need to see the V5 certificate before you buy the car, don't believe anyone who says it's been sent to the DVLA – it may be true, but you need to see it before you purchase the car. Check that all details are correct and also how many owners there have been. Also check the chassis number and the engine number. If it is a private car sale, make sure the name and address matches with the seller's driving licence.
• IS IT INSURED? The details on the car insurance policy should match with what you've been told. If the car isn't insured, you cannot take it for a test drive.
• CHECK THE CAR OVER. Look for stone chips and scrapes on the bumper, any large dents and make sure if the paint is a consistent shade all over. Keep an eye out for rust under the bumpers doors, and wheel arches and examine the tyres for wear and tear. Look at the condition of the interior and especially the seats and the carpet wear underneath the pedals to identify genuine millage. Trying all the buttons to make sure all the electrics work is also a wise move.
• TEST DRIVE. When you take the car out for a run, look and listen for anything unusual. If you really don't know much about cars then take someone with you who does to help you find the right choice.
• PAYING FOR IT. It's advisable to use a banker's draft for a private sale. This way you will be covered if there are any problems. At car dealers, a credit or debit card should is recommended, as long as it provides extra legal protection.
• AND FINALLY. Keep your mileage as low as possible. Every 1,000 miles over the average annual mileage – that's 12,000 miles – depreciates up to £50 off your car's value.

Who will buy it?

Buy a popular make with a strong image as these have the best resale value. A good spec, including a sunroof, power steering, ABS, airbags, air conditioning and alloy wheels will all help to make the car more appealing for re-sale.

Uphold the service history and keep your car in good condition to make sure buyers will be willing to pay the price you demand for it when you come to sell it.

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