Buying a car is a very important decision and not one which should be taken lightly not only because of the costs involved but also because of the safety issues at stake and of course the effect the model will have on your insurance premiums. Read through our car buying tips and be prepared before you venture into the marketplace.

• Have a good think about exactly what you want from a car before you go out looking. Make sure that a vehicle matches your criteria before considering it as a possible purchase.
• Check out how much the insurance will cost you before buying a car. Low profile, low maintenance cars will get you the best insurance rates.
• Think about whether the fuel economy suits your budget.
• Try and find out how much it would cost to have your prospective car serviced, and how much a new set of tyres would cost.
• The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) can be found stamped on the body chassis or frame, under the bonnet or on the dashboard.
• Think about whether you want to go for petrol or diesel. Diesel cars are generally more expensive than petrol-run vehicles but are far more economical to run. Diesel cars are also cleaner, with much lower emissions. On the other hand, petrol engines are generally quieter and more responsive, with lower servicing costs to boot.
• Check that the mileage of your prospective car matches with the vehicle’s documentation.
• Check the car over for rust. This is a problem that can escalate quickly and be expensive to rectify.
• If you notice oil around or under the car then there is probably a leak which may be costly to fix.
• Give the tyres a good look over- if they are worn then that means an added expense for you. Look especially along the inside of the tyre tread as the wear and tear will vary across the width of the tyre. The tread must be a minimum of 1.6mm in depth by law. Ask the seller to put new ones on or give you a discount.
• It is a good idea to have a car checked over by the RAC, ABS or AA before you make your final decision to buy (see below for telephone numbers).
• If you are buying a used car then always ask to see proof of the seller’s identity and address.
• Look for security features when considering buying a car- not only will they protect your car, but they can also help to reduce your premiums.

It is only when you take a car for a test drive that you really get to know it. Follow our checklist below of points to look out for when going for that all-important spin around the block.

• Make sure that the engine starts up obediently when the engine is both cold and hot.
• If you hear any funny noises when you’re driving such as whining from the engine or gearbox then alarm bells should ring.
• Make sure that the gears change easily and that the steering feels fine. Loose steering probably points towards worn parts.
• Pay particular attention to the brakes and their responsiveness.
• Noisy exhausts could indicate leaks.
• Have a look to see that any gauges on the dashboard are working.

Legal advice
AA - 0906 0101 300
ABS - 0800 358 5855
RAC - 0870 5533 533
Office of Fair Trading - 08457 224499

Used car inspections
AA - 0800 085 3007
ABS - 0800 358 5855
RAC - 0870 533 3660